Hello Everyone,
I'm looking to setup a PV system personally, and I've scoped out most of the components I want, I just haven't quite decided on the Inverter (probably most important of course). I just graduated from Purdue with a B.S. in EE so I'm fairly comfortable working on these types of applications even though my specialization was in Microwave & RF.
(Location & Setup)
I live in Phx AZ now, and I will be setting the Solar panels up at ~32 degrees south so I receive the most production from the panels. I have 2, 93"x48" areas to mount the panels that I am going to use. I really like the Sanyo HIP-205BA19 as these panels appear to be the most rugged & highest quality, hopefully as the extra cost reflects ~$250 extra (Anyone say otherwise?), plus I like the color. Due to the size of the panels it appears I will be able to host 4 of those panels on my 2 areas. If I'm correct and I get 6 hours of sun a day according to several zoning charts I've found than I should be able to produce enough energy to offset 95% of my on peak hours over here.
According to http://www.xantrex.com/support/gtsiz...eng#calculator Xantrex does not have an inverter that will accommodate just 4 panels even these High voltage outputers, and as I do not have space for a 5th (by 10" ), I have to find other inverters.
If I'm correct the voltage I should be counting on to deliver to the inverter is 42*4 = 168VDC, which appears to be too low for all the inverters I've seen.... Should I consider adding a 5th panel that's less wide so I can make the voltage and use the GT3.3? Cost isn't the main issue though I would like to keep it reasonable but with high performance and longevity in mind. Are there any issues adding a 5th panel with possibly different voltage or manufacturer?
I'm looking for 3 things in the inverter; efficiency, reliability & expandability for my PV system. Eventually I plan to install more panels however for now this is what I'm stuck with. (HOA's are a real nightmare).
I want an inverter where I can connect it to my PC over 485 or 232 if necessary and I could purchase a wireless receiver to receive status of the box on a wall. My ultimate goal is to be able to set it up to send txt messages over cellular channels like my security system does and I will setup a web based server access to the box (why I'd like 485).
I'm currently basing this work on the fact that I should be able to claim the federal, state. The APS rebate of $3/DC kWh I'm a little sketchy on and building this like I don't have to count on that. Has anyone done a personal install and received the APS rebate?
Once I get this issue sorted out I will probably post everything I intend to purchase for this install and possibly some A-CAD crude sketches of the setup I will have (Had to turn into HOA dorks).
Any suggestions, hints or nuggets of wisdom would gladly be accepted & appreciated in response.
I'm looking to setup a PV system personally, and I've scoped out most of the components I want, I just haven't quite decided on the Inverter (probably most important of course). I just graduated from Purdue with a B.S. in EE so I'm fairly comfortable working on these types of applications even though my specialization was in Microwave & RF.
(Location & Setup)
I live in Phx AZ now, and I will be setting the Solar panels up at ~32 degrees south so I receive the most production from the panels. I have 2, 93"x48" areas to mount the panels that I am going to use. I really like the Sanyo HIP-205BA19 as these panels appear to be the most rugged & highest quality, hopefully as the extra cost reflects ~$250 extra (Anyone say otherwise?), plus I like the color. Due to the size of the panels it appears I will be able to host 4 of those panels on my 2 areas. If I'm correct and I get 6 hours of sun a day according to several zoning charts I've found than I should be able to produce enough energy to offset 95% of my on peak hours over here.
According to http://www.xantrex.com/support/gtsiz...eng#calculator Xantrex does not have an inverter that will accommodate just 4 panels even these High voltage outputers, and as I do not have space for a 5th (by 10" ), I have to find other inverters.
If I'm correct the voltage I should be counting on to deliver to the inverter is 42*4 = 168VDC, which appears to be too low for all the inverters I've seen.... Should I consider adding a 5th panel that's less wide so I can make the voltage and use the GT3.3? Cost isn't the main issue though I would like to keep it reasonable but with high performance and longevity in mind. Are there any issues adding a 5th panel with possibly different voltage or manufacturer?
I'm looking for 3 things in the inverter; efficiency, reliability & expandability for my PV system. Eventually I plan to install more panels however for now this is what I'm stuck with. (HOA's are a real nightmare).
I want an inverter where I can connect it to my PC over 485 or 232 if necessary and I could purchase a wireless receiver to receive status of the box on a wall. My ultimate goal is to be able to set it up to send txt messages over cellular channels like my security system does and I will setup a web based server access to the box (why I'd like 485).
I'm currently basing this work on the fact that I should be able to claim the federal, state. The APS rebate of $3/DC kWh I'm a little sketchy on and building this like I don't have to count on that. Has anyone done a personal install and received the APS rebate?
Once I get this issue sorted out I will probably post everything I intend to purchase for this install and possibly some A-CAD crude sketches of the setup I will have (Had to turn into HOA dorks).
Any suggestions, hints or nuggets of wisdom would gladly be accepted & appreciated in response.
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