Harvesting of solar energy is the present and the future of the energy industry. Solar panels are at the front of our attempt at capturing solar energy and there are various practices that would help us utilise and maintain these wonderful devices in our battle towards renewable energy and sustainable development. Read on to understand the practices that will make the installation and use of solar panels a matter of reliability and assurance. After observing many solar panels over a period of many years, it was discovered that there are certain key factors that enhance the opportunities of cost saving.
Reliability
- The best systems are those that are installed using proper mounting systems, flashed mounting points, wet-rated wiring and grounding components. The ones that have all stainless steel fasteners stay in the best shape.
- The most reliable ways of controlling leaks is the instalment of flashed mounts that create a watertight seal around the boundary of the fastener so that it attaches to the rafter. Wrong size or poor designs show leaks. In addition, corrosion or structural failures do not show up when the mounting systems are engineered for solar.
- Safer power electronics together with a higher number of factory-assembled systems go a long way in ensuring higher levels of reliability and cost effectiveness. Fire hazards and electric shocks can be prevented by the use of safer inverters. In addition, when modules are integrated or pre-assembled, it reduces the incidents of poor installation.
Lab Standards
It is imperative for quality solar installations to meet underwriters’ laboratory standards for modules on national electrical code parameters for wiring and grounding. This includes standards pertaining to the International building code and the International Residential Code.
Best Practices:
- Mounting systems should be designed for rooftop solar installations in specific.
- Solar and electrical components should rise up to standards and permitted requirements. Plus, they should be engineered for wet and hot roof conditions.
- Structural components, including fasteners, must be made of stainless steel or aluminium.
- Roof attachments must be engineered for the mounting system. It should include flashings designed for the mounting system.
- Using the latest grounding components will maximize the system’s long-term integrity.
- Use of newly UL-listed power electronics such as micro inverters, DC-DC converters, and string inverters will reduce arc faults that lead to shock and fire hazards.