You may have encountered technical terminologies when learning or asking about solar energy systems. One is “solar array,” and if you are unfamiliar, you may confuse it with just a single photovoltaic solar panel. In this blog, we will define a solar array, how it works, and what factors affect its performance.
Solar panels vs. interconnected solar panels
A solar array is a collection of multiple solar panels connected to create a system that can harness the energy from the sun and convert it into usable electricity.
Therefore, several solar cell components electrically connect a photovoltaic array to form a bigger photovoltaic system (PV system). Generally, the larger the total area of the array, the more solar energy it will generate.
How does a solar array work?
A complete photovoltaic system uses a photovoltaic array as the primary source for generating electrical energy. A single photovoltaic panel or module does not produce enough solar energy for general use.
Most manufacturers produce standard photovoltaic modules with output voltages of 12V or 24V. Panels in an array can be electrically connected in series, parallel, or a mix of both. For higher output voltages, people often choose series connections. For example, when connecting two solar panels in series, their voltage will double while their current remains the same.
Solar panel systems can be scaled. Hundreds of solar panels can be connected in sites around entire cities. Or several individual panels can be connected and installed on rooftops in an urban setting to provide power to communities.
The flexibility of modular photovoltaic arrays (PV systems) enables designers to create solar power systems that can meet various electrical needs, no matter how large or small.
It is worth noting that photovoltaic panels or solar panels from different manufacturers should not be mixed in an array, even if their power, voltage, or current output is nominally similar. This is because differences in the characteristic curves of solar cells and their spectral sensitivities can cause additional mismatch losses within the array, reducing their overall efficiency.
Does it matter where your solar array is located?
It is important to ask your installer about the system design and where they recommend installing the solar panels. A solar array facing directly south will produce more power than one facing west, east, or north because it receives more hours of sunlight. But west-facing solar arrays produce energy during peak demand hours, allowing you to earn more during time-of-use rates.
Roofs are a standard option for installing solar panels but are certainly not the only option. If you have lots of sunny lands, consider installing a ground-mounted system. You can orient optimally, tilt panels for maximum yield and generate more power over time as ground-mounted arrays are not limited by roof size.
Sometimes people install solar panels on other structures, such as carports and gazebos, in addition to roofs. These installations are uncommon. Costs associated with freestanding structures may also be slightly higher due to the additional components required for installation.
How many panels do you need in your solar array?
A typical home needs 20 to 25 solar panels to meet all of its electrical needs; however, the exact number depends (among many other factors) on the size of your utility bill. The number of panels you need will also depend on where the panels are located, whether that be your geographic location or the design itself.
Geographically, the same solar panels will generate more electricity in California than in New York because California gets more sunlight over the year. Installers consider your geographic location when estimating the yield of your solar panel system and make design recommendations accordingly.
Can multiple solar systems be installed?
Sometimes, your installer will recommend a solar panel system with multiple arrays connected and powering the same meter. However, multiple arrays can result in higher installation costs due to the additional labor required.
Also, if installing multiple arrays facing different directions, consider using a power optimizer or microinverter as an inverter solution. Power optimizers and microinverters help complex solar panel systems generate electricity efficiently by optimizing the production of each panel. In contrast, with a standard central string inverter, poor performance of one panel reduces the output of other panels on the same circuit.
Can you add capacity to your solar system in the future?
Whether you’re considering buying an electric vehicle (EV), installing a hot tub, switching to an air-source heat pump, or making any other home modification, there’s good reason to expect your electric bill to increase. Consider adding solar panels if you plan to increase your electricity usage later. It is, of course, possible to expand your system at a later date if you have extra space available for additional panels – but you should be aware of the following:
Choose efficient equipment
First, if you’re short on space, consider paying more for efficient, high-performance equipment when installing your first array. This maximizes your overall power generation while saving space for new panels in the future.
Call your original installer
Ask your installer if they added any additional projects when they installed the original system. As some installers shy away from doing so due to concerns about warranty conflicts. It is often easier to avoid problems by working with the company that did the initial installation. However, if your first installer is out of business or has orphaned you, there is no option but to look for another installation company. This time, research about them, especially their workmanship and longevity in the business.
Future Electricity Plan
Finally, if you are convinced your power consumption will increase, consider oversizing your system to avoid future add-on projects. This saves you labor and licensing costs. You can also maximize incentives that may not be available across the board right now, such as the 30% solar tax credit.
How to Install Your Own Solar System
At DroneQuote, we always recommend comparing your options. We provide estimates of your potential solar costs and savings. Register on our website to receive quotes from multiple pre-qualified installers so you can start generating renewable energy with your solar system.