Performance Analysis

One of the most important considerations when choosing a solar energy provider is the “performance ratio.” This metric takes into account how much electricity a solar system produces compared to the amount of energy it consumes. If the solar system consumes more energy than it produces, the system is considered to be less efficient and customers will see higher bills or reduced benefits. To ensure the system meets industry standards and produces enough electricity to power your home, look for a system with a high “performance ratio”.

Solar panels convert sunlight into usable energy. But during the daytime, most systems generate more energy than they consume. This is known as a net surplus of electricity and is usually sent back into the grid to be used by other customers.

* Net Surplus – Excess power generated by the solar system during the day that is sold back to the utility company for credit on your next bill.

* Energy Production – The amount of electricity the solar system produces in a day. This is based on the total amount of sunlight that strikes the solar panels.

* DC Electrical Output – The amount of energy produced by the solar system. This number is determined by multiplying the DC electrical output by the hours the system operates each day.

* Inverter Output – The amount of energy consumed by the inverter while the system is producing electricity. This is the number you will want to look for when comparing different solar providers. When paired with the DC electrical output, you can calculate your system’s overall efficiency using the performance ratio formula below: Performance Ratio = DC Electrical Output x 100 / Inverter Output

An inverter converts direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). Every solar system has one! So if you’re looking for a system with high efficiencies and low operating costs, you’ll want to look for a high-efficiency inverter that provides a high power output per watt of input power. Higher-wattage inverters will cost more but will help you save more money in the long run because they use less energy to produce the same amount of electricity.

1. PV modules convert the sunlight into usable electricity 2. The module is connected in series 3. A controller regulates the amount of power produced by the modules by controlling the electrical current flowing between them 4. The controller connects the output of the array to the grid through an electrical junction box 5. AC appliances in your home use electricity from the grid 6. Excess electricity from your house is not returned to the grid and is wasted 7. A net meter measures the flow of electricity in both directions between your home and the grid 8. Your utility company credits you for excess energy produced when your home uses more energy than it produces 9. You get paid through your electric bill 10. Solar panels produce electricity even when it’s cloudy or raining!!
2. With solar panel installation, it’s best to choose components with low production losses such as high-efficiency monocrystalline cells.
3. When choosing an inverter, look for one with high efficiency and low harmonic distortion to maximize power and reduce wear and tear on the array.