Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge Power Harvesting System
Chapter 1: Introducing the SolarEdge Power
Harvesting System
The SolarEdge power harvesting solution maximizes the power output from any type of solar
Photovoltaic (PV) installation while reducing the average cost per watt. The following sections describe each of the system’s components.
SolarEdge Power Optimizer
The SolarEdge power optimizers are DC-DC converters connected to PV modules in order to maximize power harvesting by performing independent Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) at the module level.
The power optimizers regulate the string voltage at a constant level, regardless of string length and environmental conditions.
The power optimizers include a safety voltage function that automatically reduces the output of each power optimizer to 1 Vdc in the following cases:
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During fault conditions
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The power optimizers are disconnected from the inverter
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The inverter’s ON/OFF switch is turned OFF
Each power optimizer also transmits module performance data over the DC power line to the inverter.
Two types of power optimizers are available:
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Module Add-on power optimizer – connected to one or more modules
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Smart modules - the power optimizers are embedded into a module
SolarEdge Inverter
The SolarEdge inverter efficiently converts DC power from the modules into AC power that can be fed into the main AC service of the site and from there to the grid. The inverter also receives the monitoring data from each power optimizer and transmits it to a central server (the SolarEdge monitoring portal; requires Internet connection).
SolarEdge Monitoring Portal
The SolarEdge monitoring portal enables monitoring the technical and financial performance of one or more SolarEdge sites. It provides past and present information on the system performance both at the system and module levels.
Installation Procedure
The following is the procedure for installing and setting up a new SolarEdge site. Many of these also apply to modification of an existing site.
1.
Connecting Power Optimizers in Strings , page 13
2.
Recording power optimizer serial numbers (optional)
, page 25
3.
Mounting the inverter, Page 16
4.
Connecting the AC and the Strings to the Inverter, page 18.
5.
Commissioning and activating the installation , page 21.
6.
Connecting the inverter to the SolarEdge monitoring portal , page 26.
7.
Configuring the inverter , page 27
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SolarEdge HD-Wave Inverter Installation Guide MAN-01-00250-1.1
Installation Equipment List
Installation Equipment List
Standard tools can be used during the installation of the SolarEdge system. The following is a recommendation of the equipment needed for installation:
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Allen screwdriver for M5/M6/M8 screw types
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Standard flat-head screwdrivers set
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Non-contact voltage detector
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Cordless drill or screwdriver and bits suitable for the surface on which the inverter will be installed
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Suitable hardware for attaching the inverter mounting bracket to the surface to which it will be connected
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M6 (1/4") or M8 (5/16”) stainless bolts, nuts, and washers for attaching the power optimizer to the racking (not required for smart modules)
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MC4 crimper
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Wire cutters
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Wire strippers
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Voltmeter
For installing the communication options, you may also need the following:
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For Ethernet:
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CAT5/6 twisted pair Ethernet cable with RJ45 connector.
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If using a CAT5/6 cable spool: RJ45 plug and RJ45 crimper
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For RS485:
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Four- or six-wire shielded twisted pair cable.
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Watchmaker precision screwdriver set
Inverter Transport and Storage
Transport the inverter in its original packaging, facing up and without exposing it to unnecessary shocks.
If the original package is no longer available, use a similar box that can withstand the weight of the inverter (refer to the inverter weight in the specification datasheet provided with the unit), has a handle system and can be closed fully.
Store the inverter in a dry place where ambient temperatures are -25°C - +65°C / -13°F - 149°F.
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SolarEdge HD-Wave Inverter Installation Guide MAN-01-00250-1.1
