VEMC-Blogs

String Inverters in Solar PV Systems: Design, Advantages, and Limitations Explained

String Inverters in Solar PV Systems

Solar PV systems rely on efficient conversion of solar energy into usable electricity, and string inverters play a crucial role in this process. For many small to medium-sized installations, string inverters offer a balanced solution in terms of cost, efficiency, and scalability. This blog explores their design, advantages, limitations, and future trends.

Working Principle of String Inverters

String inverters convert direct current (DC) generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC), suitable for feeding the grid or powering electrical loads. In a string configuration, multiple solar panels are connected in series to form a string. The inverter manages each string, converting the combined DC output into AC. 

Typical Design Architecture

A string inverter typically comprises several MPPT channels, allowing independent operation of multiple strings. For instance, a two-MPPT inverter can manage two separate strings, optimising performance even if the strings are oriented differently. This design ensures simpler installation compared to central inverters. 

Advantages of String Inverters

  • Cost-effectiveness: String inverters are generally less expensive both in terms of initial investment and maintenance.
  • Easier Installation: The modular design reduces cabling complexity, making installation faster and less labour-intensive.
  • Scalability: Adding extra strings to expand a system is straightforward, providing flexibility for your ever-growing energy requirements.
  • Maintenance: Issues are usually easier to locate and repair when string inverters are being used.

These advantages make string inverters ideal for residential, commercial, and small industrial solar installations, helping optimise the return on investment while ensuring performance.

Limitations

Despite their benefits, string inverters come with some limitations. Partial shading of a string reduces the performance of the entire string, as one underperforming panel can limit the energy production of the connected panels. There is also a single point of failure risk; if the inverter fails, the output of the entire string is lost. Compared to microinverters, which handle each panel individually, string inverters are less effective in shaded or irregular installations.

Comparison with Central Inverters and Microinverters

Central inverters are suited for large-scale solar farms, while microinverters are ideal for installations with shading issues or complex roof geometries. String inverters strike a balance for small to medium-sized plants without the complexity of microinverter systems.

Applications

String inverters are widely used in small to medium rooftop solar plants and ground-mounted PV systems, including commercial and industrial setups. Several solar EPC companies in Mumbai offer this solution, known for its modularity and ease of installation.

Future Trends

Smart string inverters with IoT integration are emerging, offering remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, and enhanced energy management. These innovations improve system reliability and provide valuable data insights for performance optimisation.

String inverters are a versatile and cost-effective solution offered by many solar EPC companies in India like VEMC. As a trusted provider with 75+ years of experience and an ISO 9001:2015 certification as well as a CRISIL MSE-1 rating, VEMC offers end-to-end solar EPC services including design, installation, and commissioning of PV systems with string inverters. You can connect with us on +91 8976951701+91 9819907445022 43117133 or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in to explore our solar solutions.

How Much Can You Save with Rooftop Solar?

solar EPC companies in Mumbai

As the world turns its focus towards sustainability and reducing carbon footprints, rooftop solar systems have emerged as an excellent choice to save on electricity bills while contributing to environmental conservation. But how much can you actually save by installing a rooftop solar system? Let’s explore this renewable energy solution provided by several reputed solar EPC companies in Mumbai.

Overview of Rooftop Solar Economics

Rooftop solar systems work by capturing sunlight through photovoltaic (PV) panels installed on your roof. The energy generated is used to power your home or business, reducing your dependency on grid electricity. The savings come from reduced electricity bills as you’re generating your own power instead of buying it. This leads to significant savings over time, especially when electricity prices are gradually rising. 

Here are some factors that influence how much you can save with a rooftop solar system:

  1. Monthly power bills: Switching to solar can result in savings on electricity bills. Households with high power consumption or larger businesses can save more through solar energy.
  2. Rooftop size: The size of your roof directly impacts how many solar panels can be installed. A larger rooftop allows for more panels, which can generate more electricity and lead to higher savings.
  3. Hours of sun: Areas with more sun hours per day will produce more electricity. For instance, regions like Mumbai can expect a higher return on investment compared to areas with less sunlight.
  4. Net Metering: Net metering allows you to feed excess power back into the grid. This excess energy can be credited towards your future electricity bills, thereby increasing your savings.

Example Scenarios

  • Residential savings: A typical residential installation with a 5 kW solar system can offset around 70-80% of the electricity bill. For a household with a monthly bill of ₹6,000, this could translate to savings of ₹4,000-₹5,000 per month or around ₹48,000-₹60,000 annually. Over a 25-year lifespan, this could add up to savings of over ₹12-15 lakhs.
  • Commercial savings: For businesses, the savings potential is even higher. A commercial establishment can install a solar system ranging from 20 kW to 100 kW or more. For a business with a ₹50,000 monthly electricity bill, a solar system could cut this cost by 60-80% leading to savings of ₹30,000-₹40,000 per month or ₹3.6 lakh to ₹4.8 lakh annually. Hence, businesses can save millions of rupees over a 25-year period.

Subsidy Impact on Cost

Government subsidies and incentives play a significant role in reducing the upfront cost of rooftop solar installations. This reduces the payback period and improves the return on investment, making rooftop solar a viable option for users.

Payback Comparison

The break-even point or payback period for a rooftop solar system typically ranges from 4 to 6 years. After this period, the savings generated from the solar system are essentially free. The payback period is often shorter for commercial installations compared to residential setups due to their higher electricity consumption.

Interested in saving with rooftop solar? Contact VEMC today for a free site assessment or quote to understand the potential savings for your home or business. As a leading Solar EPC company in Mumbai, we offer tailored solar EPC services to maximise your energy savings. Reach out to us on +91 8976951701+91 9819907445022 43117133, or email us at marketing@vemc.co.in now. 

Tilt It Right, Shine Bright: The Science behind Solar Panel Positioning

Tilted solar panels absorbing sunlight

Solar energy is one of the most sustainable and cost-effective sources of power. However, the efficiency of a solar panel system heavily depends on its installation, particularly its tilt and positioning. In this blog, we’ll understand how the correct tilt and angle can maximise solar energy generation, and how VEMC’s expertise in solar design can help you optimise your system.

Importance of Correct Tilt and Angle for Solar Efficiency

The tilt and angle of solar panels significantly impact their efficiency. To maximise solar energy capture, panels must be positioned at the optimal angle which is typically close to the latitude of the location. By ensuring that panels face the sun’s rays directly, energy production is maximised. A correctly tilted panel can produce 20-30% more energy compared to a poorly positioned one.

Impact of Geography and Latitude on Panel Positioning

Geography plays a key role in solar panel positioning. The Earth’s tilt and orbit cause seasonal variations in the sun’s path which differ by location. For example, solar EPC companies in Mumbai must install solar panels tilted at a latitude of approximately 19° North. An accurate understanding of the local geography is essential for optimising solar performance. As one of the trusted solar EPC companies in India, VEMC ensures that solar systems are precisely installed according to your location to achieve maximum energy output.

Role of Seasonal Variations in Output Optimisation

The sun’s angle changes with the seasons which means the solar output can vary throughout the year. To optimise energy production, the tilt angle of solar panels may need to be adjusted seasonally. During winter, when the sun is lower in the sky, a steeper tilt helps capture more sunlight. In contrast, a shallower tilt in the summer allows the panels to absorb sunlight more effectively.

Comparison between Fixed and Adjustable Mounting Structures

There are two primary types of mounting systems: fixed and adjustable. Fixed mounting structures hold solar panels at a predetermined angle, which is simple and cost-effective but doesn’t account for seasonal variations. While this setup can be sufficient, it may result in reduced energy output during certain times of the year. On the other hand, adjustable mounting systems allow for seasonal adjustments to the panel tilt. These systems require more maintenance but provide greater flexibility and higher energy generation.

Effect of Panel Positioning on ROI and Payback Period

Proper panel positioning directly influences the ROI and payback period of a solar system. Right positioning maximises energy production which reduces energy bills and accelerates the payback period. With the right design and installation, solar systems deliver long-term savings and better financial returns.

VEMC’s Expertise in Solar Structure Design and Precision Installation

As one of the leading solar EPC companies with over 75 years of expertise, VEMC excels in designing and installing precision solar structures. We ensure that your solar system is optimally positioned by taking into account your location, seasonal variations, and specific needs. Contact us at +91 8976951701, +91 9819907445, 022 43117133, or email marketing@vemc.co.in to explore our wide range of solar EPC services and harness the full potential of solar energy today.