Loading
Solar power is becoming the go-to option for people across the world to meet their energy needs.
This is because the primary objective when it comes to generating power is sustainability. As a result, corporations, governments, and individuals are investing in renewable energy products to gradually shift from electricity generated by fossil fuels to being more energy-efficient, hence investing in SOLAR ENERGY.
Solar energy is the most viable renewable energy technology for the masses, but, this could fail before the energy transition happens if the slightest voltage spike can damage every electronic device drawing power from a solar panel array if it has no SURGE PROTECTION.
Like every other electrical device out there, solar panels are prone to sudden voltage increases that can damage their internal components.
This can often be attributed to lightning storms since solar panels are exposed and found on roofs, fields, or other isolated areas, making them prime targets due to their expansive size and metallic components.
When lightning strikes a solar panel array, it causes an induced transient current within the system’s wire loops that leads to the failure of the insulation, panels, inverter, and other equipment. Other components within the solar power system, such as the combiner box and MPPT (maximum power point tracker device), have the highest chances of failure.
Some solar systems might withstand physical or circuit damage to their panels; however, their circuit controls and energy storage devices will be instantly unusable after a lightning strike.
Suppose you want your solar power system to serve you continuously. Then, you must have all your bases covered and be one step ahead by getting a SURGE PROTECTOR, which is different from the AC and DC circuit breakers added to the system.
If you already have a solar system installed and you don’t have surge protection, then, the fate of your electronics is entirely up to chance.
Your installer might have even told you that your solar power system doesn’t need SPDs since your whole property already has surge protection – which would sound great in theory to reduce your costs. But, unfortunately, what it means is that you’re leaving your solar system at great risk once the next storm brews up.
In final words, do not allow a nonprofessional installer, who might because of cost or lack of expertise, make the whole investment in having a sustainable power go to waste just because of the absence of a SURGE PROTECTION in your system.
Looking to go solar, be smart in asking your installer if he is including surge protection in the system, and if you’ve already installed it, be quick to ask if you have SURGE PROTECTION included in your system, soon there will be lots of lightning strike as the rain starts pouring down, so, be proactive.
