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Writer's pictureHarvey Woods

Solar 101: What Are Power Optimizers?

Updated: Feb 25, 2023

The great debate. DC power optimizers vs Micro-Inverters. What is the best choice for solar energy systems in New England and why are they important?

SolarEdge DC Power Optimizer
Key Finding: DC power optimizers are a better choice for solar energy systems in New England than micro-inverters due to their superior ability to mitigate shade and provide maximum power output throughout the year.

Solar energy has become a popular choice for homeowners and businesses alike looking for a more sustainable and cost-effective source of power. While installing solar panels is a great first step, the key to maximizing the performance of your solar system lies in the technology that you choose to manage the power produced by your panels. One of the best options on the market today is the DC Power Optimizer.


What are Power Optimizers?

Power optimizers are devices that are used in solar energy systems to increase energy production and improve system efficiency. They are designed to optimize the performance of each individual solar panel in the system by regulating the DC voltage and current that flows through the panel.


How Do Power Optimizers Work?

Power optimizers work by reducing the effects of shading, soiling, and other environmental factors that can reduce the overall performance of a solar energy system. By individually managing the performance of each panel, power optimizers can ensure that the system produces maximum power output and improves overall system efficiency.


Compared to traditional solar energy systems that use micro-inverters, power optimizers offer several advantages, including increased flexibility, improved performance, and greater safety. They also offer the ability to monitor the performance of each individual solar panel, allowing for easier maintenance and troubleshooting if any issues arise.


What are the benefits of DC Power Optimizers?


SolarEdge Power Production Graph
This is a system generating significant energy during the winter season in New Hampshire.

DC Power Optimizers allow for maximum power output, even in less than ideal conditions.


This is because they are designed to mitigate the effects of shade and extreme temperatures, which can significantly reduce the performance of your panels and an important consideration for any solar customer in New England.


They also allow for complete monitoring of each panel, which means that you can see exactly how much power each panel is producing and quickly identify any potential issues. This can help you to maximize your system's performance and ensure that you are getting the most out of your investment.



Are DC Power Optimizers The Same As Micro-Inverters?


This is a great debate that we will link a new blog post. Long story short, no.



DC Power Optimizers (i.e. SolarEdge) are different from micro-inverters (i.e. Enphase) such that they work in conjunction with a central inverter to optimize the performance of each solar panel individually.


Unlike micro-inverters, which convert the direct current (DC) power generated by each panel into alternating current (AC) power on the roof, DC Power Optimizers optimize the DC power generated by the array and ship it to the inverter, where it is then turned into usable electricity.


This is important because this allows solar energy systems to be easily serviced by Harvey Woods over its useful life and does not require expensive roof teams to make easy fixes!


DC Power Optimizer Warranty Information

Finally, it's important to note that DC Power Optimizers have low failure rates. At Harvey Woods, less than 1% of our maintenance calls (inside or outside of our energy grid) are due to a faulty power optimizer. If you purchase a SolarEdge System, they come with a standard 25-year warranty, which provides peace of mind and protects your investment. SolarEdge is a leader in the solar industry, and their commitment to quality and reliability is evident in the length of their warranty.


Conclusion


If you are looking for a way to maximize the performance of your solar system and ensure that you are getting the most out of your investment, SolarEdge Power Optimizers are the choice for homeowners and businesses in New England. With their innovative technology, reliable warranty, and complete monitoring capabilities, they are the perfect solution for homeowners and businesses looking to take advantage of the benefits of solar energy.


Contact Us


Ready to make the switch to solar energy? Don't wait any longer to contact Harvey Woods.


Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you find the best solar energy solution for your home or business. From installation to maintenance, we've got you covered every step of the way. So why wait? Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help you upgrade your home with solar energy.




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