Are you planning to install a modern photovoltaic system? In order to use solar energy, the photovoltaic system must be connected to the electrical system in the building. The basis for the safe and proper operation of the photovoltaic system is a photovoltaic switchboard - dedicated to the PV installation. Which photovoltaic switchboard will meet the requirements of your project? Let's check!
Check out the photovoltaic switchboards at the Onninen wholesaler
How is a photovoltaic switchboard different from a regular one?
The PV switchboard is the basic element of the photovoltaic system. It allows for the installation of inverters of various powers – even up to over 60 kW. Thanks to the switchboard, the photovoltaic panels and inverters mounted on the roof can operate safely and with maximum efficiency. The safety equipment, which the switchboard is equipped with (switches, converter fuses, protectors, etc.), protects the PV panels and the inverter against overvoltages in circuits and short circuits caused by atmospheric discharges.
An important place in a photovoltaic switchboard is also occupied by distribution, control and measurement equipment. Control equipment ensures management of circuits and coordination of their operation. The main task of the measurement equipment is to collect and analyze data on the operation of the PV system and the amount of energy generated and fed into the network. In order to enable remote control of photovoltaics, the PV switchboard is equipped with communication equipment.
It is worth knowing that the switchboards are designed for use inside or outside the building, depending on the IP tightness class or degree of mechanical strength. However, each PV switchboard from our offer is suitable for outdoor installation.
What types of photovoltaic switchboards are there?
Photovoltaic switchboards available on the market differ in many parameters. You can choose from AC, DC or DC/AC switchboards with various configurations and different equipment. The basic variant is PV panel switchboards, mounted on a panel or on the wall of a building, requiring direct current. The second type is switchboards designed for the installation of a DC/AC converter, also mounted on the wall, but powered by alternating current from the converter.
The most important parameters of switchboards intended for photovoltaic installation include:
- number of strings (a string is a separate electrical circuit consisting of photovoltaic panels connected in series),
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number of rows and modules, - method of assembly,
- type of connectors and type of choke,
- tightness class,
- protection class,
- degree of mechanical strength,
- rated voltage,
- operating temperature range,
- dimensions (should correspond to the type and quantity of equipment installed in the switchboard and the requirements of the given installation),
- housing material (usually it will be a UV-resistant material, e.g. ASA, less often aluminum),
- door closing system,
- design.
Photovoltaic installers also pay attention to other elements – essential for the efficient and safe operation of a specific photovoltaic system.
How to choose a photovoltaic distribution board for your installation?
The photovoltaic switchboard must be adapted to the parameters and safety requirements of a given PV installation, so its selection should be entrusted to specialists, e.g. the company responsible for the delivery and implementation of photovoltaics in your home. An experienced electrician will familiarize themselves with the home installation, check its power, and then select not only the appropriate switchboard, but also mounting elements, modular equipment and the cable connecting to the inverter. They will also ensure the correct connection of the photovoltaic installation to the main switchboard. A well-matched PV switchboard, containing the appropriate overcurrent and overvoltage equipment, will provide reliable protection of strings, photovoltaic panels and inverters against overvoltages and the effects of short circuits.
What should you remember when installing a PV distribution board?
It is best to plan the PV installation at the construction stage of the house. This will prevent the installation elements from being visible on the wall, install the switchboard in the right place and prepare the point for connecting the inverter. The inverter should be located no further than 10 meters from the main switchboard. If the inverter is located further away, additional protection (on the AC side) is necessary.
Photovoltaic distribution boards in the Onninen wholesaler
In the Onninen installation wholesaler you will find a wide range of photovoltaic switchboards with various configurations and various equipment options. We offer modern solutions, equipped with appropriate protection and a solid, plastic housing, ensuring a very high degree of protection IP65 and a degree of mechanical strength IK07. Choosing a PV switchboard in Onninen is an investment in the safety, efficiency and durability of the photovoltaic installation.
Check out the photovoltaic switchboards at the Onninen wholesaler