The increasing demand for renewable energy sources has led to significant advancements in solar photovoltaic (PV) technology and grid-tie inverters. In the solar PV grid tie system, the power of photovoltaic module is related to the inverter. The power matching between PV modules and solar on grid inverters is not in a relationship of 1:1 fixed ratio, so it needs to be considered comprehensively based on the specific conditions of the project. The main influencing factors include irradiance, system loss, component installation angle, efficiency and life span of the on grid inverter, etc. These components are critical in converting solar energy into usable electricity and integrating it into the existing power grid.
1. Installation angle of the solar PV modules.
The installation angle of solar PV modules, often referred to as the tilt angle or inclination angle, plays a crucial role in maximizing energy production. The optimal angle varies depending on factors like geographical location, time of year, and specific project requirements. When the plane of the object is completely perpendicular to the light, the received power is maximum. If the object is tilted, making the plane of the object and the light at a certain angle, the received power will be discounted. In the same area, the received power will be reduced a lot. Grid tie power inverter also applies to this principle.
2. Irradiance of the solar photovoltaic module installation area.
The irradiance of a solar photovoltaic (PV) module installation area is a crucial factor determining its energy production capacity. Irradiance refers to the amount of solar energy received per unit area, typically measured in watts per square meter (W/m²). The output power of solar photovoltaic modules is related to irradiance. In areas with good solar energy resources, there are few clouds in sunny days, good air quality and high atmospheric transparency. The average solar radiation reaching the surface of the module is much higher than in regions with poor resources.
Understanding the irradiance of a solar PV installation area enables stakeholders to optimize system design, predict energy output, and make informed decisions regarding project feasibility. Continuous monitoring of irradiance levels facilitates performance optimization and ensures the long term reliability and efficiency of solar PV systems.
3. Altitude of the solar photovoltaic module installation area.
The higher the altitude, the smaller the weakening effect of the atmosphere on solar radiation. 
In this case, the solar radiation reaching the ground will be stronger. However, where the air is thinner, the heat dissipation of the grid connected inverter is worse. If the altitude exceeds a certain height, the solar grid tie inverter must be derated.
However, the impact of altitude varies depending on factors like geographical location, weather patterns, and local atmospheric conditions. In regions with clear skies and minimal air pollution, such as mountainous areas or high plateaus, solar irradiance tends to be higher despite the thinner atmosphere. This can result in increased energy production from solar PV systems.
On the other hand, extreme altitudes may present challenges for installation and maintenance due to harsh environmental conditions like intense UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, and potential for snow or ice accumulation. Moreover, altitude can affect the temperature coefficient of PV modules, influencing their efficiency.
4. System efficiency (loss) on the DC side.
In the solar PV system, the energy radiates from the sun to the photovoltaic module s, and reaches the grid tie inverter through DC cables, combiner boxes, and DC power distribution. Energy is lost in all links. Due to different design schemes, such as centralized type, string type, distributed type, etc., the loss of the DC side is different.
Moreover, environmental factors like temperature can impact the performance of components, further affecting efficiency. Additionally, maintenance issues or aging of equipment can lead to degradation in performance over time. Optimizing system design, employing high-efficiency components, and implementing effective monitoring and maintenance practices are crucial for mitigating efficiency losses on the DC side, ensuring optimal performance and cost-effectiveness of the system.
5. Heat dissipation conditions of the solar grid tie inverter.
On grid inverters should generally be installed in a place with good ventilation and avoid direct sunlight, so as to facilitate heat dissipation. If due to site restrictions, the solar on grid inverter has to be installed in a closed place that is not conducive to heat dissipation, the derating of the inverter must be considered and fewer components should be installed.
Environmental factors also influence heat dissipation. In hot climates, maintaining optimal operating temperatures becomes challenging, potentially reducing efficiency and lifespan. Proper ventilation and installation in shaded areas can mitigate these effects. Additionally, advancements in thermal management technology, such as intelligent temperature monitoring and control systems, contribute to optimizing heat dissipation in solar grid-tie inverters. These systems regulate temperature levels, ensuring optimal performance and reliability under varying environmental conditions.
6. Efficiency of the solar grid tie inverter.
A solar grid tie inverter is a crucial component in a grid-tied solar power system, converting the direct current (DC) generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) compatible with the electrical grid. Efficiency is paramount in these inverters as it directly impacts the overall performance and economic viability of the solar system. Efficiency of solar grid tie inverters is not a constant value. What needs to be considered is power switching device loss and magnetic loss. At low power, the efficiency is relatively low. The efficiency is highest at 40% to 60% power. When the efficiency exceeds 60%, the efficiency gradually decreases. Therefore, the total PV power must be controlled between 40% and 60% of the on grid inverter power to obtain the best efficiency.
7. Life of the solar grid tie inverter.
As an electronic product, the reliability of solar grid tie inverters has a lot to do with the operating temperature. If the temperature of components such as capacitors, fans, and relays is increased by 10℃, the failure rate may increase by more than 50%. However, operating temperature is related to power. According to statistics, the long-term operation of solar grid tie inverters at 80-100% power is about 20% lower than that of 40-60% power.
Conclusion
When the solar PV system calculates the system capacity according to the module capacity, the solar inverter should be selected according to the actual maximum power output by the module to avoid current limitation of the inverter. According to actual conditions, solar PV modules and on grid inverters can be configured from 0.9:1 to 1.4:1. When the AC output power of the installed inverter is used to calculate the system capacity, in order to increase the power generation as much as possible, the power of the components can be increased. Solar PV modules and grid tie inverters can be configured from 1.4:4 to 1.8:1, depending on how many components the inverter can connect.
