SolarEdge Power Optimisers

SolarEdge Power Optimisers for Commercial & Industrial BusinessesMore Power, Move Safety, More Visibility

Through technological innovations, solar has not only become more cost-effective, but it has also become accessible to more people in more places. The SolarEdge Power Optimiser is one of these key breakthroughs.

Power Optimisers have revolutionised the way solar energy is harvested and managed in solar PV systems by enabling each module to produce its maximum energy, regardless of the performance of the other modules in the string. This technology also allows for improved safety starting at the module level and provides better visibility into the overall system performance.

What are Power Optimisers and how do they work?

SolarEdge Power Optimisers are DC/DC converters connected by installers to each solar module, effectively turning them into smart modules. They were developed by SolarEdge’s founders in order to solve the problem of module mismatch in PV systems. The five founders envisioned a device that could be attached to each solar module and, using Maximum Power Point Tracking algorithms, maximise the amount of power each module produces individually.

The Power Optimisers are connected to the modules and PV inverter, which is effectively the ‘brain’ of the solar energy system, responsible for managing PV production and grid interaction. In traditional string inverters without Power Optimisers, PV production is managed at the string level. Through Power Optimisers, PV production can be managed at the module level.

Also, in traditional string inverters without Power Optimisers, the power production of all modules is determined by the weakest performing solar module in that string. So, when one of your modules gets damaged or dirty, either the performance of all the modules drops, or the lower-performing modules may stop producing all together until the issue is resolved.

However, SolarEdge’s DC optimised inverter and Power Optimiser combination is different. Through the deployment of Power Optimisers, our commercial PV solution moves the management to the module instead of the string or inverter. SolarEdge Power Optimisers use Maximum Power Point Tracking technology (MPPT) to manage the power of each individual module so that each reaches its own maximum potential, regardless of the performance of the other modules.

Multi-layer Safety Begins at the Module Level

Through Power Optimisers connected to each module, we have developed state-of-the-art PV safety technology. Our commercial safety feature suite is one of the most important reasons why PV installers around the world choose SolarEdge. While PV systems are generally safe, certain safety measures must be considered during installation and maintenance. But not all safety technology is created equal.

Traditional inverters have limited safety functionality. This is because as long as the sun is up, current is flowing through the DC cables, even when the inverter is shutdown. Therefore, in the event of a hazard, the roof is still unsafe for first responders.

Our suite of multilayer safety features is designed to keep your system safe during installation, maintenance, and emergencies, even when the sun is shining. And through our Power Optimisers, we can make implementation of the new IEC safety regulations more cost-effective.

All SolarEdge systems have a built-in SafeDCTM safety feature that automatically reduces the DC voltage to touch-safe levels and complies with some of the world’s highest safety standards, including the U.S. NEC 2017 rapid shutdown requirements, new IEC safety standards, and many more.

How can Noble Green Energy help?

At Noble Green Energy, we provide a full-service solution for businesses looking to take advantage of solar PV systems.

We’re specialists in solar PV installation, and we work very hard with you to optimise systems, even post-installation. Our aim is to exceed yours, and our industry’s expectations with every solar project we work on.

For more information, please read our commercial & industrial solar PV page, or get in touch. You can reach us by leaving a contact form message, calling us on 0345 266 0023 or emailing us at getintouch@noblegreenenergy.co.uk.