Modern panels are extremely robust compared to earlier panels. In a storm situation they are often struck by large branches. We commonly find the poles that hold the panels are bent before the panel is damaged. If the panel is used in the tropics, make the pole stronger, as well as the frame holding the panel.

It depends on the application. With some lights, as the batteries go flat, most equipment demands more from the batteries as the voltage drops, tending to flatten the batteries quicker. With the use of special lights and software, we can overcome this to a large degree. On solar, some electronic controllers actually use more power than they save.

This may alter the type, size of batteries and solar panel(s). If the load is in daylight hours, only the batteries do not have an opportunity to charge. If the load on the system is at night then the batteries will have a chance to recharge in the day time. This is a case where multiple charging systems may be required. e.g. Wind and solar.

The size of the solar panel is directly related to your latitude (also read sunlight) and how much power you want to draw from the batteries. In winter it is important to base your calculations on just a few hours of useable daylight if you are in a forest as an example. For important equipment you would also allow for a number of consecutive days with poor sunshine hours.

Question 1 What size should the solar panel be?

Question 2 Why does the type of electrical load alter the calculations?

Question 3 What type of light is best to use with solar panels?

Question 4 Can solar panels be easily broken?

These are to stop birds and possums sitting on the top of the panels. Some panels do not have these spikes, particularly if they are under palm trees etc, as the spikes catch the palm fronds causing a dramatic reduction in power out of the panel that recharges the batteries. Small shadows over the panel can cause large charging efficiency losses.

Question 5 Why are there spikes on solar panels?

When the main loads are draining the batteries during the day. When there are substantial periods of shade. When the drone of wind generators will not cause concerns.  When it is critical that the batteries are charged even if there is the likelihood of an extended period of cloudy days.

Question 6 When do you use other methods of charging batteries?

There are formulas to do this. They rely on a customer giving accurate information on the load profile. Important information includes hours of operation, load power demands, importance of battery charge and the type of load the system is to operate. The calculations will take into account the latitude of the installation and the likely number of hours of sunlight.

Question 7  How do you calculate the size of the batteries and panels?

 

 

 

 

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FAQ (Solar Power) Answer these questions for success!