Power optimizer and microinverter companies are
joining with module manufacturers to offer more integrated solutions to
the solar market. But what is the difference between these systems and
what advantages do they offer solar contractors?
“The
microinverter is converting DC into AC, while a power optimizer
performs DC to DC conversion, and therefore an inverter (to convert DC
to AC) is needed in a grid-connected system,” said Juan Carlos Gonzalez,
senior technical manager at Jinko Solar. “Also, optimizers tend to be
more efficient, while microinverters tend to have more flexibility.”
Gonzalez
added that buying a solar module with an integrated electronic offers
some advantages for installers rather than buying them separately.
“From a logistics point of view, there are no extra boxes, shipping, warehousing or extra part numbers needed,” he said.
Brian
Cox of Axitec Solar added that from a construction standpoint, there is
no additional hardware required, no pre-configurations and no
additional communication connections required during the installation
with integrated modules.
“Less wiring and avoiding having to install the electronics separately makes installation easier,” he said.
Don
Hammond, vice president of sales and marketing at Mage Solar, also sees
the advantages integrated modules offer solar installers.
“Installers
love that integrated panels just plug in to each other without any high
voltage DC. This makes installation much safer and panels can be shut
down individually if needed,” he said. “Because of their plug-and-play
technology, integrated systems can be expanded without problems. This
usually eliminates any initial consumer hesitations because the systems
can be scaled to accommodate any budget.
Usually,
integrated modules offer the same warranty conditions as a traditional
PV module, about 25 years, said ET Solar product manager Zhaoyang Zhang.
However, the price can run a bit higher.
Still,
while the initial hard costs might be higher in some cases, Hammond
says they can be quickly recouped after considering the saved
installation labor and time.
“It’s
really hard to think of an actual disadvantage these modules might
present,” Hammond said. “It’s a relatively young technology and so maybe
one of the challenges for the industry is to create more awareness and
provide better information about the ease of use and installation for
integrated modules.” SPW
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