Adding optimizers after the install

[Paintbb84]

Just finished my install, 16 (250w) panels in two strings of 8. Solectria 5kW inverter mounted inside 100+ft away. Its reading less than what I hoped on both strings. Some issues with shading from trees and a set of high tension lines. I'm thinking of adding optimizers to increase efficiency and cutting down some trees. I'm trying to determine what optimizers I can even use. It sounds like solaredge HAVE to be connected to a solaredge inverter to even function. SMA may work but you lose any ability to monitor individual panels without using their brand of inverter?

Any experiences you all can bring to the table are appreciated!

[Mike90250]

Optimizers do not increase efficiency. They minimize losses. Shade produces no power, so as the shade moves, the non-productive segments of the array shift around, sometimes the internal bypass diodes help, sometimes, not.

How did you calculate what you are supposed to get with the shadows in the design stage ? Did you ignore the shadows ?

What is the cost payback if you do nothing ? Spend $$$ on rewire, and new parts ? Just add more panels to compensate ?

[Paintbb84]

I didn't consider the shadows during the design phase (honestly didn't think I'd have any but now I'm seeing them) and I can't source any more of the panel that I have. Even the stupid high tension wires cause somewhat of a shadow across a row of the panels during certain times and of course it moves with the sun. I only have 16 panels to consider. I was debating buying 8 and trying them and measuring results to see if it was worth it. However, I just need to see if ANY of the commercially available optimizers out there now will physically function in my situation, then I'll tackle that math.

[ButchDeal]

You can use SMA/Tigo optimizers and they have gateway you can use to monitor them.