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[ { "title": "READ | Innovation in Solar Technology Pt 1", "nid": "531", "body": "\u003Cp\u003EFrom efficiency upgrades, advanced capabilities of solar equipment, to massive improvements in the storage of energy, there is so much that the field of solar power is moving towards in terms of innovations.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIn this NEW series, we discuss a few of the most interesting topics in solar technology innovation. Be sure to stay tuned to catch all the instalments!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 1 \u2013 Solar Glass\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022solar glass building\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022590a92d6-5caa-4e46-afce-183879fa53d6\u0022 height=\u0022186\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/solar%20glass%20windows.jpeg\u0022 width=\u0022464\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIt looks the same as regular glass \u2013 but it\u2019s not. Solar glass has a major advantage over its predecessor in that it can harness the power of the sun to create clean energy. Imagine the possibilities \u2013 skyscrapers that can power cities, electric cars become self-sustaining, even smart phones could charge themselves!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn this article, we explore the innovation of solar glass technology. We\u2019re taking a specific look at the innovation of ClearVue PV \u2013 an Australian based solar company looking to generate power from clear windows.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cem\u003EEnergy efficient, energy producing windows that are stunningly clear with no visual distortion.\u003C/em\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHow does it work?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EClearVue is a smart building material that uses clear glass to convert sunlight into energy. ClearVue utilises cutting edge glass technology to convert the Ultra Violet (UV) and Infrared (IR) components of sunlight into electricity by allowing visible light to pass through. ClearVue technology strives to harness natural energy through the use of innovative building materials generating power where it is needed.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022ClearVue diagram\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022e2058712-f151-48f5-ac5f-fa543c3d509a\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/ClearVue.png\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EA closer look at the technology\u2026\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EClearVue consists of a spectrally-selective film and inorganic Nano-particles incorporated into a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayer, sandwiched between two sheets of clear glass. Sunlight comprising UV, visible light and IR, strikes the glass. ClearVue passes up to 70% of the visible light. 90% or more of the UV and IR radiation is reflected off the spectrally-selective film, and scattered by the inorganic Nano-particles to the edges of the glass, where it is collected by photovoltaic (PV) cells that produce electricity.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhy should you consider solar glass for your building? \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ECurrently, ClearVue panels can produce up to 30W of power per meter squared. With further R\u0026amp;D effort, this figure is expected to exceed 50W. By blocking UV, IR and thermal-radiation, ClearVue has superior insulation properties, compared to conventional glass. A building made mainly of ClearVue surfaces in tropical latitudes, can save up to 40% on heating, cooling and lighting costs.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EClearVue panels have a lifespan exceeding 20 years and can be sized to fit existing frames, replacing existing windows, roofing, skylights and facades in new and old structures alike.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMain Benefits of ClearVue:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBack-up for existing energy systems\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EReduced electricity costs through improved glass insulation qualities and on-site electricity generation\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EUsing safe, clean renewable energy with reduced reliance on fossil fuels\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EModern aesthetic to new buildings (glass buildings can become one giant solar panel)\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u201COur technology presents a paradigm shift in the way glass will be used in building construction, automobiles, agriculture and specialty products. Glass will no longer be just a component of construction, but also a renewable energy resource\u201D \u003C/em\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cem\u003E\u2013 Victor Rosenberg, Executive Chairman of ClearVue PV\u003C/em\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EResources\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E1.\u003Cstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYDMg7c1a9U\u0022\u003EWATCH\u003C/a\u003E \u003C/strong\u003Ea video from ClearVue PV explaining their innovative technology\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E2. Considering clean energy for your home, factory or office? \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?Subject=Solar%20Enquiry\u0022\u003ECHAT\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E to our solar experts now!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESource:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.clearvuepv.com/products/how-it-works/\u0022\u003Ehttps://www.clearvuepv.com\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Aug 2021", "terms": "Solar, Education" }, { "title": "READ | A guide to commercial solar power systems - pt 3", "nid": "528", "body": "\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022financing solar\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022687214d4-d10f-425b-b47c-0278f2712153\u0022 height=\u0022363\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/shutterstock_71764594crop.jpg\u0022 width=\u0022484\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe\u2019re wrapping up our series on commercial solar power with the third instalment \u2013 f\u003Cstrong\u003Einancing and maintenance\u003C/strong\u003E. If you missed the first two parts to this series, catch up now!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=READ--A-guide-to-commercial-solar-power-systems---pt-1\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 1:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nCommon sizes breaks for commercial-sized solar systems\u003Cbr /\u003E\nCommercial solar designs and layouts\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=READ--A-guide-to-commercial-solar-power-systems---pt-2\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 2:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nExpectations you should have for your solar installer\u003Cbr /\u003E\nInverters in a commercial-sized solar system\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 3:\u003Cbr /\u003E\nFinancing and maintenance of a commercial solar system \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe will discuss three popular means of financing a commercial solar system \u2013 cash, PPA and a loan.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1) Cash/CapEx\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIn no particular order, the first way to fund a commercial solar system is technically not finance \u2013 but still a common way to purchase a system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe cash price for a commercial solar system will always be the lowest (leading to the shortest possible payback time for your business), as fees and charges involved with finance or leasing increase the overall cost of a system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EHowever, a potential disadvantage is that larger commercial solar systems represent a significant expenditure, which could potentially be used elsewhere in the business.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2) Power Purchasing Agreement (PPA)\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EPPA\u2019s are a type of solar leasing arrangement.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe core idea is that a third party retailer installs a commercial system on your property (In that the third party legally owns the system, and is obligated to maintain it), and enters an agreement with your business to sell to you a set amount of electricity over a long-term agreement.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAdvantages of this method are that your business electricity costs overall are lower, as the price for electricity under a PPA will be cheaper than what you are currently paying the retailer. Moreover, there is no upfront cost for installing the system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EHowever, a major disadvantage is that your business will be obligated to buy all of the electricity generated by the system, regardless of whether this energy is self-consumed by your business or sent to the grid for a possible feed-in tariff.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAs self-consumed solar energy is far more valuable than solar electricity that is exported to the grid for a feed-in tariff, if you are considering a PPA it is very important to have the system optimally sized for maximum self-consumption, taking non-working times into account.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EPPA\u2019s set out the price of solar energy for the duration of the PPA. While a low price for year one is obviously a good start, it\u2019s imperative to read the fine print on how the prices will be adjusted over time.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe best PPA is one that, over its term, increases its prices at a lower rate (or not at all), rather than the one with the lowest starting price and then inflates by 5% p.a. (be wary of compound indexing!)\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3) Loan\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EA business loan will allow you to negotiate pricing with a commercial solar installer as if you were a cash buyer. If the savings from a new commercial solar system are more than what you pay on interest for the loan \u2013 you can see why this would be an obvious finance option to avoid taking a big cash-flow hit to your business by using cash/capex to buy a solar system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMonitoring and maintenance of your commercial solar system\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EIt\u2019s preferable not to invest in a commercial solar system that does not monitor both solar energy generation and electricity\u00A0consumption. Why? Without combined generation and consumption\u00A0monitoring, you will not have the information you need to keep\u00A0your post-solar bills as low as possible.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAnother point to consider is tasking someone within your organisation to be responsible for monitoring your\u00A0system\u2019s weekly generation.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EDo your research first! Ensure that a thorough load profile analysis is conducted in order to invest in the most accurately sized system for your businesses\u2019 requirements.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EMoreover, don\u2019t be fooled into investing in a simple solar generation monitoring system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EAny good monitoring solution will provide you with the ability to check your gross\u00A0consumption \u2013meaning\u00A0you will be\u00A0able to view, for any particular hour, the \u2018before and after\u2019 of solar\u2019 s contribution to your business.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EFurthermore, a maintenance schedule is important to adopt. A reputable installer will provide a maintenance schedule to their customer. For larger commercial systems, installers will offer a\u00A0very comprehensive and tailor-made schedule\u00A0to either conduct themselves, or for the business to arrange\u00A0from a third party.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003ETypically, an installer will offer a check every 6 months for the first 2 years, and would have their own preferred pressure washing company that they can recommend when dirt and other materials start to affect\u00A0the performance of the system.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EPanel cleaning should be undertaken on a case by case basis and not scheduled. The solar panel design and layout should be designed to enable self-cleaning through capitalising on wind and rain fall, but may require manual intervention in high pollution/dust areas.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EBe warned - some installers\u00A0may attempt to not honour a warranty if the maintenance is completed by a third party. This is just a ploy for them to make more money. Always read the fine print of your maintenance contract to avoid this.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EOn a final note it is important to choose an installer that is likely to remain in business throughout the life span of your solar system which is expected to be in excess of 20 years. Should the installer cease to be in business following the installation you would have little to no recourse in the event of critical failure.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Cu\u003EResources:\u003C/u\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E1. \u003Cstrong\u003ELEARN\u003C/strong\u003E more about \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=LEARN--Solar-Funding-Models\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Esolar funding models\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E2. \u003Cstrong\u003EDOWNLOAD\u003C/strong\u003E information\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/download/commercial-solar-offer-2020.pdf\u0022\u003E- We provide trusted commercial solar solutions.\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/download/magnet-capital.pdf\u0022\u003E- Finance your energy project through your electricity savings\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E3.\u003Cstrong\u003E \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003ECHAT\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E to us for more information.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESource: \u003C/strong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.solarquotes.com.au/commercial-solar-guide.html\u0022\u003Ehttps://www.solarquotes.com.au/commercial-solar-guide.html\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Aug 2021", "terms": "Solar, Education" }, { "title": "PRODUCT NEWS | Fluke 393FC CAT III 1500V True-rms Clamp Meter", "nid": "526", "body": "\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnet.co.za/news-letter.html\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022fluke clamp meter\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u002211d4cd07-5d8d-418f-ba0d-4f7cd76b6834\u0022 height=\u0022326\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Picture2.png\u0022 width=\u0022567\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EFluke\u0027s \u003Cstrong\u003E393 FC CAT III 1500 V True-rms Clamp Meter with iFlex\u003C/strong\u003E is designed for technicians who work in high voltage dc environment: solar arrays, wind power, electric railways, data centers battery banks for uninterruptible power supplies. The clamp will measure up to 1500 V dc, 1000 V ac, and up to 999.9 A dc or ac through the clamp jaw. \u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-justify\u0022\u003EThe included iFlex flexible current probe extended ac current measurements up to 2500 amps. This clamp has a thin jaw, giving you access to cables in crowded combiner boxes. Test leads are designed with your work in mind, and are also rated to CAT III 1500 V dc.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\n\u003Cstrong\u003EOther key functions:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIP54 rated, ideal for work outdoors on solar arrays and wind power systems\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDC power measurement, showing readings in kVA\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAudio Polarity indicator helps prevent accidental miswires\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EVisual Continuity turns provide a bright green light in the display, ideal when working in dark and noisy environments\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ELogging and reporting of test results via Fluke Connect software\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EWhen measuring ac current the included iFlex flexible current probe gives you unparalleled access to cable is tight spaces. \u00A0The iFlex probe can be twisted through extremely small spaces and provide accurate current measurements.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERESOURCES:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/download/fluke-393-fc-cat-iii-1500v-true-rms-clamp-meter.pdf\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EDOWNLOAD\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E the product brochure\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Wuv6wNys6o\u0026amp;list=PL0AHvVniUcgzRtFVdw-UbTU1u0FwFgx18\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWATCH\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E an introductory video on this clamp meter\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Q8Zhuf3BEA\u0026amp;list=PL0AHvVniUcgzRtFVdw-UbTU1u0FwFgx18\u0026amp;index=13\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWATCH\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E a product expert review this clamp meter\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnet.co.za/contactus.html\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECHAT\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to us for a Fluke solution for your facility\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnet.co.za/news-letter.html\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESUBSCRIBE\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to receive informative articles like these straight to your inbox\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Aug 2021", "terms": "Electrical, Solar, Products, Fluke" }, { "title": "READ | A guide to commercial solar power systems - pt 2", "nid": "524", "body": "\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022commercial solar\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u00223c80feb7-67c5-4e34-91bd-693f9aae010d\u0022 height=\u0022229\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/hydrologic-rooftop-solar-installation-agt-1200x500.jpg\u0022 width=\u0022550\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EConsidering investing in a solar system for your business? Then this series is for you!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=READ--A-guide-to-commercial-solar-power-systems---pt-1\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 1:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nCommon sizes breaks for commercial-sized solar systems\u003Cbr /\u003E\nCommercial solar designs and layouts\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 2:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u003Cstrong\u003EExpectations you should have for your solar installer\u003Cbr /\u003E\nInverters in a commercial-sized solar system\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 3:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nMonitoring and maintenance of your commercial solar system\u003Cbr /\u003E\nFinancing a commercial solar system\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWhat should you expect from the initial meeting with a prospective solar installer?\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EAny reputable commercial solar installer will first begin by conducting an energy profile analysis on your property.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYou can expect this analysis to commence with a request to review your electricity bills. The installer should request to see at least a year\u2019s worth of electricity bills. He will inspect these to see the tariff your business is on, and analyse interval data in order to accurately project paybacks.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYour electricity bills are also used to calculate the energy consumption during daylight hours \u2013 especially in winter. This will allow the installer to determine what\u2019s more important \u2013 roof space or what you, as the customer, actually need. For example, you may need a 100kW system, but only able to fit 50kW on your roof \u2013 an energy profile analysis will be able to definitively tell you if it\u2019s still worthwhile going ahead.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EOther expectations for an initial meeting with a solar installer include conversation around understanding your business needs and goals, as well as a discussion on the various financing solutions available.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EInverters in a commercial-sized solar system\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EBroadly speaking, there are three options when it comes to choosing a solar inverter setup for a commercial-scale job:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Col\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EPower optimisers\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMicro inverters\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EChained string inverters\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ELarge central inverters\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ol\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECost is key in a commercial system. Micro inverters carry a 20% premium in price over conventional string inverters, but offer a variety of safety and performance benefits.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EOptimiser systems on the other hand offer a great balance between micro inverters and string inverters. Optimisers strike the perfect balance between performance vs cost, while out performing string inverters and still being more cost effective than Micro Inverters.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESome of the benefits of Optimisers include:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EFuture proofing the system and design should you need to expand in the future\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EFuture proofing your panels should you need to change a few panels a few year\u2019s down the line, optimisers can virtually accept any panel size and any brand\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen dealing with solar installations on the commercial scale, it could be difficult to justify such an expense to your business for micro inverters (for example) compared to a string inverter system that will effectively produce almost the same power.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EString inverters represent a more cost-effective option \u2013 but some commercial installers may tend to lean towards chaining residential-sized inverters together, instead of using one large central inverter.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThis preference is for a variety of reasons:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EFew commercial roofs suit a huge single array, and multiple smaller inverters gives design flexibility with different strings (MPPT\u2019s)\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAccess. It\u2019s much easier to move and install briefcase-sized inverters compared to a central inverter that is the size of a small room \u2013 especially if you need to use heavy machinery to lift and position it.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ERedundancy. One failure doesn\u2019t cripple the entire system.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EUltimately, it is up to the solar installer to make their recommendation based on your unique situation, and for you to decide whether you want a \u2018no frills\u2019 system or a work of electrical engineering art on your roof.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=LEARN--The-World-of-Inverters\u0022\u003ELEARN\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E more about inverters.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EWe provide trusted commercial solar solutions\u2026\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/download/commercial-solar-offer-2020.pdf\u0022\u003EDOWNLOAD\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E our brochure!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECHAT\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to us for more information.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESource: \u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.solarquotes.com.au/commercial-solar-guide.html\u0022\u003Ehttps://www.solarquotes.com.au/commercial-solar-guide.html\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Aug 2021", "terms": "Solar, Education" }, { "title": "READ | A guide to commercial solar power systems - pt 1", "nid": "520", "body": "\u003Cp\u003EConsidering investing in a solar system for your business? Then this NEW series is for you.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 1:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\n\u003Cstrong\u003ECommon sizes breaks for commercial-sized solar systems\u003Cbr /\u003E\nCommercial solar designs and layouts\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 2:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nExpectations you should have for your solar installer\u003Cbr /\u003E\nInverters in a commercial-sized solar system\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPart 3:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\nMonitoring and maintenance of your commercial solar system\u003Cbr /\u003E\nFinancing a commercial solar system\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022commercial solar system\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022be7a8212-a42d-4550-9696-57d1afee6ff0\u0022 height=\u0022201\u0022 src=\u0022/cms/drupal8-magnetgroup/sites/default/files/inline-images/Commercial-solar-power-Plant.jpg\u0022 width=\u0022596\u0022 class=\u0022align-center\u0022 /\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECommon size breaks for commercial solar systems\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETo put commercial-sized solar systems into perspective, a common residential solar power system size is 6.6kW.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ELess than 30\u00A0kW\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u00A0(Up to about 100 panels)\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese systems typically use the same hardware and fall under the same grid connection rules as residential systems. The implication here is that most installers who perform residential-sized installations can usually handle business-sized installs up to this level, without necessarily needing any expert commercial solar power knowledge.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EA 30\u00A0kW system could generate in excess of\u00A0120\u00A0kWh of electricity a day on average, over a year.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E30-100\u00A0kW\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECommercial solar arrays of this size require special systems to protect the grid from all the electricity they\u00A0can generate, and need special permission from the electricity provider to connect to the grid. A commercial solar system specialist is recommended for business systems this size (and larger).\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECommercial solar systems in this size range are typically installed on medium sized office buildings, fuel service stations, local clubs and small retail businesses.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOver 100\u00A0kW\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese solar systems are typically installed on hotels, large offices, and small to medium factories.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EOver 250kW\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese systems are very large. As such, these systems are installed by specialists who understand the specific engineering requirements of large commercial systems.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese systems generally go on large shopping centres\u00A0or where there is a higher expected energy usage.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECommercial solar designs and layouts\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWeight is one of the biggest factors when it comes to installing a commercial-sized solar array on the roof of a business.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EIt is vitally important that a structural engineering certificate is produced, and an engineer has physically inspected the site.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EBe sure that a detailed roof plan is shown to you well before installation.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFlat panel arrays are generally more common compared to tilt-frame installations. They are cost effective (tilt frames add additional cost) and can be altered to suit last minute variations easily.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EGround mount systems are an option if a roof is unsuitable for solar, but they represent a niche type of commercial installation and require a lot more planning (and cost) compared to a roof-mount installation.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/solutions-solar/news.php?type=articles\u0026amp;name=READ--Solar-Roof-Mounts-vs-Ground-Mounts\u0022\u003ELEARN\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E more about Solar Roof Mounts vs Ground Mount Systems\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe provide trusted commercial solar solutions\u2026\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.magnetgroup.co.za/download/commercial-solar-offer-2020.pdf\u0022\u003EDOWNLOAD\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/strong\u003E our brochure!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:hello@magnetgroup.co.za?subject=Solar Enquiry\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECHAT\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E to us for more information.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESource:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.solarquotes.com.au/commercial-solar-guide.html\u0022\u003Ehttps://www.solarquotes.com.au/commercial-solar-guide.html\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n", "created": "Jul 2021", "terms": "Solar, Education" } ]