Increasingly higher prices of electricity and heating mean that users of photovoltaic installations are starting to decide to expand them. This solution is gaining popularity, especially because those who connected to the network before the changes in regulations can in some cases settle their accounts under the old rules, even after the expansion. What is worth remembering when planning such an investment? We give you a hint!
From this article you will learn:
- when is it worth expanding the photovoltaic installation and what to remember about it,
- how to prepare for expansion,
- what does the expansion process look like,
- what tools and products are worth purchasing.
Can photovoltaic installations be expanded?
In short: yes, there are no contraindications to it. For this reason, more and more users of PV installations want to invest in additional photovoltaic panels . Many people initially chose only a small number of panels, treating them as an additional source of energy or insufficiently estimating the demand for electricity. However, the changing situation on the raw materials market and inflation mean that decisions to expand installations are being made more and more often.
The only limitation may be the roof surface, although ground installations come in handy here. This solution allows for the expansion and installation of photovoltaics even in places where the roof is unfavorably located in terms of exposure to sunlight.
What should you remember when expanding your photovoltaic installation?
It should be remembered that the expansion of a photovoltaic installation may affect the settlement system , because the discount system depends on the size of the installation. Each PV installation connected to the grid by April 1, 2022 is settled on the net-metering basis . This means that photovoltaic installations with a size of up to 10 kWp can later receive 0.8 kWh for each kWh fed into the power grid. However, for installations whose size exceeds 10 kWp, this ratio is 1:0.7.
In most cases, an enlarged photovoltaic installation will not result in the loss of the right to use the discount system, but will only change the value of the coefficient . Only PV installations expanded to a size above 50 kWp will require switching to a settlement system based on the sale of produced electricity.
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How to prepare for the expansion of a photovoltaic installation?
Most of the work on expanding a photovoltaic installation coincides with those performed when building a new installation. Therefore, almost every specialist who installs panels should be able to carry out the expansion.
The most important thing is to check the efficiency of the inverter . No photovoltaic installation can do without this device, which converts direct current produced from solar energy into alternating current used in the network. Its size is selected based on the number of energy-producing modules, so when expanding the installation, it may turn out that a new, more efficient inverter will be necessary . When deciding to use a previously installed inverter, make sure that it has obtained the Nc RfG certificate and is on the list of certified devices published by the Polish Electricity Transmission and Distribution Association (PTPiREE). If, during the expansion, the lack of such a document is found, it will be necessary to replace the inverter, even though the rated power allows it to continue operation with the expanded installation.
The second issue worth paying attention to is selecting the number, type and size of panels to meet increased needs, including forecast ones . Based on the current energy balance, the specialist should be able to help in selecting solutions that will be the most profitable for the investor.
What does the expansion process look like?
The expansion and installation of a photovoltaic installation are very similar procedures. First, a supporting structure must be placed on the roof to enable the installation of additional photovoltaic panels. It is also necessary to connect the cabling that will transport the produced electricity to the heart of the entire system, which is the inverter. In this case, it will be possible to use the previously installed electrical installation. The size of the installation must be adapted to the installed inverter, and if it has too low efficiency, it will be necessary to replace it. The energy company should also be notified about the expansion.
What tools are necessary to expand a PV installation?
Experienced professionals know how important good tools are, thanks to which assembly work can be performed much faster. This applies to both hand tools and power tools. When choosing open-end, ring or socket wrenches, it is worth choosing a reputable manufacturer, such as Ironside , whose products are available in the offer of the Onninen installation wholesaler . Battery-powered power tools will prove useful when working at heights. The lack of a cord makes work easier and additionally reduces the risk of getting tangled in the power cord. If you need proven tools, you can buy Scheppach power tools at the Onninen wholesaler.
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Photovoltaic panels, which cannot be missing during expansion
Every photovoltaic installation consists primarily of PV panels. The efficiency of the entire system will depend on their quality. Of course, the inverter and its parameters also play a significant role, but when expanding, the most important thing is to increase the number of panels . It is worth choosing long-lasting panels. The existing chain configuration is also important. When deciding to purchase new photovoltaic modules (probably different from those already installed), make sure that it will be possible to connect them to a separate MPPT inverter , otherwise their efficiency may be current limited to the value of the modules already installed when we decide to assemble them into a common chain. If you need to install individual modules to existing strings, installing power optimizers will be helpful.
JA Solar modules available in the Onninen offer differ, among others: dimensions and power, so you can adapt them to your needs.
- The JA Solar JAM54S31-395/MR_FB photovoltaic module is full black and consists of monocrystalline photovoltaic cells placed on a black substrate. They are characterized by the highest efficiency of all types of cells. The module has dimensions of 1.722 x 1.134 x 0.03 m, weighs 21.5 kg and has a power of 395 Wp.
- The JA Solar JAM72S20-460/MR_BF Photovoltaic Module is distinguished by high power with an intermediate size. It was made using half-cell technology, which is characterized by lower internal resistance compared to panels based on classic construction. The module has dimensions of 2.112 x 1.052 x 0.035 m, weighs 24.5 kg and has a power of 460 Wp.
- Photovoltaic panels for ground installations require high power. The JA Solar JAM72S30 545 photovoltaic panel is the best option for this type of installation. Of all the proposed products, it has the largest dimensions: 2.279 x 1.134 x 0.035 m and a power of 545 Wp. It weighs 28.6 kg.
Expanding an existing photovoltaic installation is a good defensive strategy in times of growing uncertainty about energy prices. Choose panels with good parameters and high quality, ensure the sufficient efficiency of other components and hire a good specialist, and you will not be afraid of electricity bills .
Check out the offer of JA Solar panels at the Onninen wholesaler