Using solar energy in the Philippines can help the environment and reduce your electricity bill. To make this possible, there is a process of capturing and converting radiation, which is done by the solar energy kit.
Knowing the elements that make up this system, you will also better understand how it works. This brings greater security and helps you make a more appropriate decision. Next, learn about the main components of the solar energy kit and find out how each one works.
Photovoltaic modules
Photovoltaic modules are composed of photovoltaic cells that capture solar radiation. They are the starting point of the system and its proper functioning depends on them, first and foremost. Each module, in general, has 60 to 70 cells.
When radiation comes into contact with these modules, it is absorbed, converted and transmitted to the next piece of equipment. For this to happen, they are arranged on so-called solar or collector panels.
They have a special paint that reduces the refraction of light and guarantees the capture of the energy sent by the sun. The greater the number of modules and cells, the greater the system’s energy generation capacity. Any defect in these items, such as a crack in the plates, may reduce their performance.
Solar Inverter
After solar radiation is captured and transformed by the modules, it needs to be converted into the form that is used in electronic devices. The energy that passes through the system is no longer solar radiation, but it still does not work in the way used in electronics and components.
In the solar energy kit, the frequency inverter is responsible for this process. The main change is that direct current is transformed into alternating current, according to the property’s needs (110 or 220 volts). Furthermore, it is responsible for adjusting the voltage and ensuring it works as expected.
The solar inverter also acts to direct the “leftover” energy. If the system is on-grid, that is, connected to the electrical grid, what is not used is thrown into this structure. If it is off-grid, the path is to the batteries.
Bidirectional meter
When the set is connected to the electricity grid, the solar system kit requires a bidirectional meter, a precise measuring device, which is used to read the energy path in both directions: from the distribution network to the property and from the system to the distributor area.
This is necessary because when solar energy is not consumed immediately, it goes to the grid-tied. In other words, the property produces for the distributor. With this, there is compensation in the amounts that will be credited to the electricity bill .
Imagine that your electricity bill is Php 3,000 and that, per month, your solar kit produces the equivalent of Php 1,500. With this, there is a credit of Php 1,500. It is essential that everything is monitored to avoid lost credits.
The bidirectional meter serves precisely to compensate these values. Through it, both the dealership and the owner can monitor precisely what is generated and owed. Therefore, it is an essential part of the economics of on-grid installations.
Junction box
The junction box is one of the most important safety elements of the solar energy kit. It has several components that protect the modules against possible deregulation. With connection to the electrical grid, some modifications could generate impacts that would harm the functioning of the cells.
Furthermore, this box contains the shutdown system for when the set needs to be repaired. In a way, the system acts as a circuit breaker and is decisive for the durability and safe functioning of the entire property.
Cabling
For everything to work as expected, the solar power kit must have the right mounting structure. Part of this has to do with solar cable. In addition to recommending using special cables, there are specific connectors that guarantee correct transmission.
You need to be extra careful with this part, as low quality items can harm the set’s functioning. It is also necessary to have structures to fix the plates, in order to maximize their durability.
Batteries
In on-grid systems, the energy generated that is not consumed immediately is directed to the electrical grid. As a result, there are credits in relation to the electricity bill , but it is not always the most interesting alternative.
On the other hand, there is the possibility of setting up an off-grid system. It is connected to batteries, which serve to store unused energy. These solar batteries have varying capacities and allow solar energy to be used even at different times, such as at night.
The fact of storing a considerable amount means that there is no decrease in flow. On cloudy days or periods, for example, there is no reduction in the level of energy generated.
To ensure adequate performance of the batteries, there is a charge controller. The equipment is used to control the input and distribution, in order to optimize its performance.
Monitoring system
The technology serves to make the solar energy kit even better and safer. One of the resources in this regard is the monitoring system. It is coupled to the inverter and helps control energy production, conversion and general operation. It is an essential resource to ensure prevention against anomalies and the identification of problems in advance.
It is also a way to avoid waste or underutilization of the set. The system’s automatic operation guarantees great practicality.
Now that you know the solar energy kit and its components, investing is easier. To do so, count on a serious and quality company to obtain the best results.
Just don’t forget that after installation, you need to take care of the items so that they last as long as possible.