3-Phase 30.4 kWp Van Der Vyver Brackenfell Grid-Tie Solar Installation
30.4 kWp Grid-tie Solar System by Specialized Solar Systems
A 30.4 kWp grid-tie solar system was recently supplied and installed by Specialized Solar Systems for a client in Brackenfell, close to Cape Town. The grid-tied solar system is being used to help power a workshop. The solar system took a week to install.
The installed Grid-tied solar system consisted of the following hardware components :
- Used a 30.4 kWp bank of roof-mounted solar panel arrays
- Used 1 x Fronius Eco 27 kW three-phase grid-tied solar inverter
- Installed a DC emergency shut-off switch with all surge protection switch-gear for added electrical safety
Feeding into the Municipal Grid
Many municipalities across the Western Cape already have the rules and tariffs in place for feeding into the grid when installing a PV system.
How does a grid-tied solar-powered system work?
A grid-tied solar-powered electrical system is also known as a tied-to-the-grid, or grid-tie system and is a semi-autonomous electrical generation or grid energy storage system.
A grid-connected inverter converts DC electricity produced by the solar panels into AC electricity, which can then be used by the property or household. If a grid-connected system is producing more power than is being consumed, the surplus is fed into the main power grid (if your municipality allows it). Alternatively, when solar panel generation is inadequate, the inverter will allow grid power to compensate.
Advantages of Grid-Tie Systems
- A grid connection will allow you to save more money with solar panels through better efficiency rates and lower equipment and installation costs. Batteries and other stand-alone equipment are required for a fully functional off-grid solar system. This adds to costs as well as maintenance. Grid-tied solar systems are generally much cheaper and simpler to install.
- Homeowners can also put excess (credit) electricity back onto the utility grid instead of storing it in batteries and using it at a later stage. This is done with special meters (if allowed in your area).
The utility grid is a virtual battery
Electricity should be used as it is generated. However, it can be temporarily stored as other forms of energy (e.g., chemical energy in batteries). Energy storage typically comes with significant costs.
The electric power grid is in many ways also a battery, without the need for maintenance or replacements, and with much better efficiency rates. In other words, more electricity (and more money) goes to waste with conventional battery systems.
Additional perks of being grid-tied include access to backup power from the utility grid in case extra power is required or if your solar system stops generating electricity for any reason. At the same time, you also help to mitigate the utility’s peak load.
Customers can contact Specialized Solar Systems for more information on purchasing a Grid-Tied solar system and for expert advice when choosing the correct solar system solution for all their electrical energy needs.