Solar Analytics

Solar Analytics

Solar Analytics is a compact add-on monitoring device that closely monitors real-time solar generation and electricity consumption. The system uses a small electronic module installed inside the switchboard and uses highly accurate sensors (CT clamps) to measure solar power generation and electricity consumption. The data is sent to a mobile App every few seconds via the onboard 4G transmitter and analysed by the intelligent algorithms developed by the solar analytics team to provide an abundance of helpful information such as:

• Your electricity usage and consumption patterns
• Overall solar system performance
• How much electricity should your system be generating vs actual generation
• Net electricity bought and sold
• Alerts and faults diagnostics
• Grid voltage and frequency monitoring
• Estimated savings and credits

THE SOLAR ANALYTICS MONITORING PLATFORM

By closely analysing the consumption and solar generation data, the patented solar analytics algorithms can accurately detect and diagnose faults and identify under-performance for several reasons, which will be explained in further detail below.

The solar analytics system is also unique in using satellite and BOM data to report system performance relative to your site’s irradiation levels. They also compare solar generation to nearby systems to help verify or identify performance issues. If all the systems in a place behave similarly due to atmospheric interferences like smog and smoke, this can be accounted for and not raise unnecessary alarms or warnings.

Grid issues: The system can also measure grid voltage and frequency on 1, 2, or 3-phase systems using a ‘Class A’ meter which logs data with an accuracy of +/- 0.5%. This is especially useful for diagnosing grid-related issues such as high grid voltage, a common reason for under-performing in many areas due to causing inverters to shut down or de-rate power output.

SOLAR ANALYTICS VS INVERTER MONITORING 

Most solar inverters have built-in WiFi and app-based monitoring platforms that let you monitor solar generation and notify you of system faults. Many of these systems can also monitor consumption by installing an additional ‘energy meter’ connected to the solar inverter. Like the solar Analytics module, the extra energy meter must be installed in the main switchboard and hard-wired to the solar inverter. This can be problematic if the inverter is located a long way from the switchboard, as data communication over long distances can become corrupt and drop out due to interference. Physically running the cable can also become impossible, especially if the roof or underfloor access is unavailable.

(The solar analytics system doesn’t require a connection to the solar inverter, so it can be much easier to install or retrofit any household or business with an existing solar system).

The biggest issue with solar inverter monitoring is that it is dependent on the stability of the local WiFi network. Solar inverter monitoring requires a WiFi connection to transmit data to the cloud. However, if the signal is unstable or drops out, the link is lost along with the monitoring. This can be avoided if the inverter is hard-wired to the modem with a dedicated communications cable. Another issue that relies on WiFi is that if the modem is replaced or reset, the inverter needs to be reconfigured by a technician to re-establish communications.

ADVANTAGES OF SOLAR ANALYTICS MONITORING

• Consumption monitoring of individual power circuits
• Uses satellite and BOM data to analyse system performance
• Provides an accurate estimate of electricity costs/credits
• Simple, easy to use and understand
• Alerts owners of any performance issues
• Not reliant on local WiFi – built-in 4G communications

ADVANTAGES OF SOLAR INVERTER MONITORING 

One area in which the solar analytics system excels is reliable communications due to an onboard sim card and 4G connection. The solar analytics system will not drop out if there is mobile reception in the area.

• Dedicated platform designed for specific solar inverters
• Provides battery information and state of charge (SOC)
• Can provide individual string (solar) voltage/current data
• Alerts of any earth faults
• Lower cost – many inverters now include a basic energy meter

THE IMPORTANCE OF CONSUMPTION MONITORING 

Electricity consumption patterns can vary wildly between households. Most owners are unaware of how much electricity is consumed at any point or which appliances consume the most power. For example, most people do not realise that heating (of any kind) can be responsible for up to 80% of all energy consumption during winter. Electricity hot water systems alone can be responsible for as much as 40% of total electricity consumption.

(This is one area where the solar analytics system shines by providing detailed consumption data, plus the ability to monitor individual power circuits like hot water or heating systems).

The more you understand your consumption patterns, the more electricity you can save. For example, most homes use small compact electric fans, thinking they are energy-saving appliances, but they are incredibly inefficient compared to a modern reverse cycle split system. Both devices draw the same amount of electricity – approximately 1500 watts continuously, but the split system provides 4 to 5 times the heat energy compared to a little fan heater. Using a consumption monitor or energy meter, the owner can see the consumption levels when different appliances are turned on and off.

EARLY DETECTION OF FAULTS 

Detecting a fault early is the best way to reduce the risk of system failure and potential equipment or property damage. Solar systems are generally very reliable, but extreme weather conditions can result in problems like water ingress and accelerated panel degradation over time. An excellent example of this is due to the overly stringent regulations in Australia. All rooftop solar installations are required to have a rooftop isolator installed. This is a plastic box with a unique DC isolation switch inside. Being on the rooftop under extreme weather conditions for many years can result in deterioration, water ingress or overheating, which can cause a catastrophic failure. (Not surprisingly, this is currently one of Australia’s leading causes of system failure). However, this type of serious fault can often be prevented early on, before things get bad, by detecting and alerting the owner about a reduction in system performance due to possible short circuits or arcing inside the isolator.

PROBLEMS WITH SOLAR – FAILURE MODES 

• Panel earth leakage – PID
• Cell hot spots and micro-cracking
• Rooftop isolator faults – water ingress
• High grid voltage causing inverter shutdown
• Inverter overheating

Earth leakage is a common problem with older solar panels, which several factors can cause, the most common being what is known as PID or potential induced degradation. Most grid-connected solar panels are linked together in strings that operate at high voltages from 300V to 600V. Boards operating at these elevated voltages over many years can, in some cases, develop a current leak or earth leak through the cells to the aluminium frames of the solar panels, which are grounded via an earth cable for safety.

MAINTENANCE ALERTS

Solar systems have no moving parts and are generally deficient in maintenance. However, over time many factors can reduce performance and dramatically decrease power output, including; dirt built-up and mould growth, shading from trees (which can grow surprisingly fast in spring), and inverters overheating. Without addressing these issues, over a few months, generation can be reduced dramatically, and in turn, electricity savings can plummet, meaning bills go up.

During the first few weeks after installation, the solar analytics system will learn the power generation profile of your system. It will consider drops in output due to shading from trees or rooftop obstacles like chimneys. The Solar Analytics system will also be able to compare the power output to other systems in the area to determine if a problem might need to be addressed. Additionally, suppose your solar work changes dramatically during the day, and other systems in the place don’t have a similar problem. In that case, you may be alerted to a possible system issue.

HOW MUCH?

The Solar Analytics unit is not expensive at around $300 for the base unit and a little more for the 3-phase team. However, since the module and CT sensors must be mounted inside the main electrical switchboard, installation must be done by a qualified electrician, which will add around $100 or more to the cost, depending on the complexity of the building.

Once installed, the installer can activate the system, and a subscription option must be chosen since the unit requires mobile data, a small fee is required, as with any mobile device. There are monthly, yearly, and lifetime subscription options, with the $ 250 lifetime option being the best value for the money.

Suppose you are interested in the benefits Solar Analytics provides. Contact Westsun Energy today to find out more!