Power Optimizer

What is a solar power optimizer?

A solar panel power optimizer is a device or component used in photovoltaic (PV) solar power systems to optimize the performance of individual solar panels. Solar panel optimizers are typically installed at the module level, meaning they are connected to each individual solar panel in a PV array. They work by maximizing the energy output of each solar panel, despite the variations in shading, soiling, temperature, and other environmental factors that can negatively impact the performance of solar panels in a PV array.

Solar panel optimizers use advanced technologies such as maximum power point tracking (MPPT) and voltage regulation to ensure that each solar panel in a PV array operates at its optimal efficiency. MPPT is a technique that allows the solar panel to operate at the point on its current-voltage (I-V) curve where it produces the maximum power output. Voltage regulation helps to maintain a stable voltage level for each solar panel, which can be important in systems where panels are connected in series.

By optimizing the performance of individual solar panels, solar panel optimizers can improve the overall energy harvest of a PV system, increase the system’s output and efficiency, and help mitigate the negative effects of shading and other environmental factors. Solar panel optimizers are typically used in systems where panels are installed in challenging or variable shading conditions, such as roofs with multiple angles or trees nearby, to ensure that each panel performs at its best, leading to a higher overall energy yield from the PV system.

Types of solar panel power optimizers

There are several types of solar panel power optimizers available in the market. The most common types include:

1. DC Power Optimizers: These optimizers are connected to each individual solar panel in a PV array on the DC (direct current) side. They perform maximum power point tracking (MPPT) to optimize the power output of each panel by dynamically adjusting the voltage and current to ensure that the panel operates at its maximum efficiency. DC power optimizers are typically used in string inverter-based systems, where multiple panels are connected in series to a single inverter.
2. AC Power Optimizers: These optimizers are installed on the AC (alternating current) side of a PV system, usually at the junction box where the panels are connected to the inverter. They optimize the power output of the panels by adjusting the AC voltage and current to ensure that the panels operate at their maximum power point. AC power optimizers are typically used in systems with microinverters, where each panel has its own dedicated inverter, or in systems with multi-string inverters, where multiple panels are connected in parallel to each inverter.
3. Smart Modules: Some solar panels are designed with built-in power optimization capabilities, known as smart modules. These panels have power optimizers integrated directly into the panel itself, eliminating the need for external optimizers. Smart modules are typically used in systems where the panels are closely matched in terms of performance and shading conditions are minimal.
4. Module-Level Power Electronics (MLPE) Systems: These are integrated solutions that combine power optimizers or other power electronics with solar panels. They can be in the form of integrated power optimizers, DC-DC converters, or other types of MLPE devices. These systems are designed to be installed at the module level and are used to optimize the performance of individual solar panels in a PV array.

It’s important to note that the specific types of solar panel power optimizers used in a PV system depend on the system design, shading conditions, inverter type, and other factors. It’s recommended to consult with a qualified solar professional to determine the best type of solar panel power optimizer for a specific PV system.

Are solar optimizers worth it?

Your solar system may work better in bad weather thanks to the MPPT tracking technology than systems without microinverters or solar optimisers. So just in case it was not clear whether are solar panel optimisers worth it, well they are. A single panel’s power optimizer may momentarily go offline if it is fully shaded.

Are optimizers better than micro-inverters?

Micro-inverters Are More Reliable

In a DC optimiser system, a single failure will ground the whole solar system. But microinverters have the highest reliability levels of all PV systems because the AC power output has multiple “small sources” of power, so it’s not concentrated on a single component.

How many solar power optimizers do I need?

You will need one optimizer per solar panel in your residential solar array but some solar power optimizers are capable handling multiple solar modules as well. Commercial optimizers that are typically installed every two modules.

Do modern solar panels need optimisers?

Some solar PV systems can minimise the impact of shading using ‘optimisers’. If you don’t have shading, the use of optimisers is not necessary or beneficial, other than the increased monitoring opportunities they offer – they won’t generate more energy.

What is the difference between string inverter micro inverter and optimizers?

The difference between a power optimizer vs. a micro-inverter is that it solves the limitations of string inverters. If a single panel under-produces due to shade or malfunction, optimizers ensure the other panels in the string are not affected.

Pros and cons of power optimizers

Pros: Choosing a power optimizer vs. a micro-inverter gives you much more flexibility with your system design:

• You can build your array in a partially shaded area or split strings across the usable space on your roof. Optimizers ensure you get the most production out of each panel in your system.

• Optimizers give you individual panel monitoring. You’ll be able to track the production from each individual panel, which can help you spot defects and shading issues on a panel-by-panel basis.

Cons: Of course, the trade-off is the additional functionality comes at a higher cost. A SolarEdge HD-Wave inverter with optimizers costs roughly twice as much per watt as the SMA Sunny Boy string inverter.

But you should keep in mind these cost-per-watt figures assume each panel is working at max efficiency. If you build a string inverter in a shaded location and don’t put optimizers on your panels, your system will never produce at its rated output.

Where solar power optimizers are used?

Solar panel optimizers are typically used in solar power systems where shading, soiling, or other environmental factors can negatively impact the performance of solar panels. They are commonly used in the following scenarios:

1. Residential Rooftop Solar Systems: Solar panel optimizers are commonly used in residential rooftop solar systems where shading from trees, chimneys, or other nearby structures can partially or intermittently shade some of the solar panels. Optimizers can help mitigate the performance losses caused by shading and improve the overall energy harvest of the system.
2. Commercial and Industrial Solar Systems: Solar panel optimizers are also used in larger commercial and industrial solar systems where shading from buildings, rooftop equipment, or other structures can affect the performance of the solar panels. Optimizers can help optimize the output of each panel, ensuring maximum energy production from the entire PV array.
3. Ground-Mounted Solar Systems: Solar panel optimizers may be used in ground-mounted solar systems where shading from surrounding vegetation or terrain features can impact the performance of the panels. Optimizers can help minimize the effects of shading and improve the overall system performance.
4. Complex Roof Configurations: Solar panel optimizers are commonly used in solar systems with complex roof configurations where panels are installed on different roof planes, orientations, or tilt angles. Optimizers can help ensure that each panel operates at its maximum efficiency despite varying shading conditions on different parts of the roof.
5. Harsh Environmental Conditions: In solar systems located in regions with harsh environmental conditions, such as high temperatures or heavy soiling, solar panel optimizers can help maintain optimal performance of the panels by regulating voltage and current levels to minimize losses due to temperature or soiling.

It’s important to note that the use of solar panel optimizers depends on the specific system design, shading conditions, and other factors. Consulting with a qualified solar professional can help determine if solar panel optimizers are necessary and beneficial for a particular solar power system.

Learn more about SolarEdge and SMA Tigo optmizers on the manufacturer Youtube Channels or read more about the solar optmizers on our Solar Blog.