SolarEdge is one of the world’s leading and fastest growing solar inverter manufacturers. Founded in 2006, SolarEdge specialises in inverter systems that use power or DC optimisers, instead of manufacturing traditional string inverters. These inverters are able to support a wide range applications, from small residential installations to large commercial installations.
Here are some of the main benefits of SolarEdge inverters and why we love them:
DC optimisers
Unlike the more commonly used traditional string inverters, SolarEdge inverters work by having DC optimisers installed to individual solar panels. This means, even when several panels are affected by shade, the other panel optimisers will be able to compensate and prevent the shaded panels from lowering the overall performance of the solar panels. (To know more about the different types of inverters, please read our article on What is an inverter? How does it work in the solar system?.)
Safety
SolarEdge’s SafeDC is an enhanced safety feature embedded into their systems. All PV panels are safe when installed according to proper standards. However, as panels are constantly producing electricity when there is sunlight, they can potentially be dangerous in the event of, for example, a house fire.
With the SafeDC feature, SolarEdge’s optimisers can only operate when it is connected with the inverter. If the SolarEdge interver is turned off, the panels can only produce a very low and safe level of voltage, keeping your system and home safe during emergencies.
Hybrid battery backup
As part of the StorEdge system, the SolarEdge inverter can also manage battery and system energy. The StorEdge inverters are all-in-one hybrid inverters that are designed to maximise solar consumption through storage as well as to provide backup power when needed.
However, it is important to note that the StorEdge inverter is made for providing backup during short and infrequent blackouts, and is not suitable for off-grid installations. The inverter can also be paired with the LG RESU-H battery range for non back-up battery installations.
Monitoring portal and panel level monitoring
SolarEdge offers an option that allows monitoring on individual panels. This is a great feature as it can identify panels that are underperforming (due to shading), detect faults or failures, as well as track the solar system’s energy production.
As the monitoring portal is a cloud-based platform, data can be easily monitored online. As owners can access the monitoring portal via the computer or the smartphone app, the system can always be reviewed and checked even while you are on-the-go.
Warranty
Most standard string inverters come with a 10-year warranty, and a 20-year upgrade comes with a heavy cost. SolarEdge, on the other hand, offers a standard 12-year warranty that can be extended to 20 years at a reasonable price.
SolarEdge inverters generally work better on roofs that have significant shading issues or with larger systems with more than 8 panels. At Total Solar Solutions, our qualified and experienced team will be able to advise you on how SolarEdge inverters can best complement your solar panels in Melbourne VIC.
Please speak to our team at (03) 9729 0894 or email [email protected]