Description of System:
- Inverter: 2.5kw SMA Sunny Boy inverter
PV Panels:
- 12 x SolarWorld Sun Module 200Watts
- Installation type: North-facing Roof mounted
- Total installation time: 2 days
Production parameters:
- Surface area of PV generation – 20.4m2
- Max current of PV generation – 7.1amps
- Annual energy yield – 4006 kwh
- Annual Savings in 2011 – R5 980
- Monthly Savings - R500
Comments:
North-facing roof was well positioned for maximum solar energy yield.
Client reported radical reduction in electricity bill, as his hourly yields usually were equal to or less than his solar production during the day. His peak loads were further reduced by his solar hot water system, geyser timers, and metering devices.
Challenges:
Requirement to place the inverter close to the distribution board. This was overcome with careful design of DC cable conduiting through roof and ceiling structure.
Description of System:
Inverter:
Sunny Boy 1.2KW
Roof sheeting:
10 x 6m lengths nailstrip roof panels
PV Panels:
10 x Unisolar PV Laminate 128Watt
Installation type:
NNW facing -facing Roof mounted
- Total installation time: 2 days
Production parameters:
- Surface area of PV generation – 20.3m2
- Max current of PV generation – 8.3amps
- Annual energy yield – 2038kwh
- Annual Savings in 2011 –R3, 044
- Monthly Savings – R253.60
Comments:
A request was made by a property company in Benoni Gauteng, who experienced a fire in one of their warehouses, to install a 1KW Grid-tie BIPV roof structure on the replacement roof. Considering their structural concerns (weight, wind) and the need to supply Grid Tie power for daytime office lighting to warehouse offices. The PV Array powers 3 offices, a kitchenette, toilettes and a reception area which uses 56W double 4ft fluorescents and CFL lighting. The project demonstrates a clear integration of one of our roofing systems with the PVL, providing secure attachment, attractive appearance, and continuous power supply to meet office lighting needs.
Challenges:
An additional roof purlin was required to secure the Nail strip roof sheet. The PVL terminals were connected in series and fed into a channel along the ridge cap. This was then directed in conduit along the gables to the inverter. A Requirement to clean the panels in the winter due to wind blown dust in the dry climate.
Total installation time: 2 days
Description of System:
Solar UPS:
- Inverter: Meanwell TN1500
- PV Panels: 2 x 200W Tenesol panels
Batteries:
- 4 x 105a/h
Battery backup load & time:
- 1.8kw for 2 hours backup
Production parameters:
- Surface area of PV generation – 3m2
- Daily energy yield – 1.14kw
Solar Hot Water:
- 1 x 150litre geyser
- 1 x 18 tube solar collector
- 1 x geyser timer
- 1 x sureflo shower head
Lighting:
- 10 x LED GU10 AC 240V 6Watt Lights
- 18 x CFL 11Watt GU11 Lights
- Total lighting wattage = 318watts
Comments:
Having already installed thermal efficient building materials and grey water systems, the client required energy saving and power backup devices for this budget eco home. We installed a high pressure solar hot water system with the geyser in the roof and low energy LED and CFL down lighting. The UPS was connected to designated distribution board breakers required to backup the lights, alarm, flat screen TV, and irrigation system.
Challenges:
Problematic power outages in the area placed pressure on the battery recharge time. A larger inverter with a higher charge rate and additional solar panels were required to keep the batteries charged.
Total installation time: 2 days
Description of System:
- Inverter: MLT 6kw
- Batteries: 12 x 105a/h
- Battery backup load & time: 2kw load for 3 hours
Comments:
Being in a shopping centre, a generator solution was not possible. Intermittent power failures in the area required a UPS installation to ensure continuation of the shop’s trading operations. Key functional loads (POS systems, 4 foot fluorescent lighting, computer & modem) were placed on designated breakers on distribution board.
Challenges:
Small working area in backroom of shop led to concern for safety of battery bank. Proper signage and management briefing was provided.
