As you know that frequent load-shedding and soaring electric bills are the major issues in Pakistan and most of the households in Pakistan are turning to solar energy. But keep in mind, just installing solar panels is not enough. You need to follow these below mentioned steps.
So, if you want to use it correctly, then you need to follow this guide. This will help you get the most energy by using solar panels in the correct way.
1. Keep those panels clean: Dust in the environment is responsible for the lower efficiency of your solar system. Dust covering the panel blocks sunlight and minimizes the production of energy. So, a gentle rinse with water and a soft sponge every week is enough. Moreover, avoid using detergents or scrubbing pads, as they can scratch the surface.
2. Right angle and direction of solar panels: The Right angle and direction of the solar panels is equally important. It should face south to catch the maximum light throughout the day. The angle must be equal to the latitude of your city, typically around 30-35 degrees. Tweak the angle between seasons to keep efficiency high year-round.
Read more: Pakistan reduces sales tax on imported solar panels from 18% to 10%
3. Shadows need to be far away from the solar panels: You need to put the solar panel away from the shade because shade is considered to be a silent killer. Even a small shadow from a nearby tree or pole can minimize the all-inclusive performance of the solar panel.
So, before installation, you have to watch or analyze carefully the sunlight pattern on your rooftop because it will definitely affect your solar panel’s overall efficiency. So, avoid placing panels near chimneys, water tanks, or anything that could cause shadows during peak sunlight hours, 10 am to 5 pm.
4. You need to use the right equipment: Don’t just go for the cheapest option. You need to look for a high-quality MPPT charge controller because it squeezes more energy out of your panels, especially when the light is low. Moreover, use a net metering-approved inverter if you desire to sell excess electricity back to the grid.
5. You need to get proper wiring: Proper wiring truly matters. Low-quality, mismatched wiring can affect your system’s performance badly. So always insist on copper wires with the right thickness and secure connections.
6. Airflow underneath the solar panel: Pakistan’s heat is not just like the other countries. High temperatures are responsible for reducing the efficiency. You need to put the airflow underneath the solar panels so that it can prevent overheating. For example, Monocrystalline panels perform more efficiently in extreme heat.
7. Monitor the solar system: Moreover, you need to use mobile apps or a dashboard to evaluate or monitor your solar panels daily. You need to look for even minute problems because a little problem like wiring issues, dirty panels can turn into a big problem. Besides this, if you have batteries, you need to look after them properly.