Would like to find out how you can cooperate with Soltec? Perhaps you need a little extra knowledge about PV systems?
Our FAQ’s will answer those questions and more!
Our FAQ’s will answer those questions and more!
PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES
Yes, these terms can be used interchangeably. A module or panel is a set of interconnected photovoltaic cells that produce electricity in the form of direct current.
The term “panel” appeared in Poland as an English loanword and has been in use on our market for several years.
It is also useful to know what a photovoltaic cell is. It is a single junction of P-type and N-type semiconductors that converts solar energy into electricity. The cells, often called wafers, generate a low DC voltage when exposed to light. For the most common silicon cell, it is about 0.6 V. To obtain a useable voltage (around a few dozen volts), the wafers are connected in rows by solder or glue. The standardised number of 60 silicon cells can achieve around 40 V. The voltage of a single cell will vary depending on the material of the semiconductor. Therefore, string lengths vary, which directly affects the electrical performance of the entire photovoltaic module.
Strings of cells are often connected in parallel to obtain more power for the entire module.
A module is a collection of individual cells, so the wrongly derided name, “photovoltaic cell battery,” is the correct one.
In contrast, the term “solar collector” should not be used as it means a device used to convert solar energy into thermal energy.
Sunlight is a stream of photons. When it falls on a photovoltaic cell, i.e., a P-N junction, it causes the electron-hole pairs to break apart. The released negatively charged electrons and positively charged holes accumulate at opposite poles of the cell, generating a constant flow of voltage. When the electrical circuit is closed, electrons travel from cells connected in rows toward positive holes through metallised contacts to equalise the potential. The electrical current created in this manner can be processed by a photovoltaic inverter or used, for example, to power DC loads.
It can be said without any doubt that PV installations are an investment for years. Photovoltaic modules are long-lasting devices, made to ensure their reliable operation for several decades – even in extreme weather conditions. Manufacturers provide up to a 30-year warranty on the module’s power output and failure-free performance. Over time, however, each module slightly loses its efficiency. Depending on the manufacturer, materials used, and the manufacturing technology, the guaranteed efficiency loss is between 0.2 and 0.7% per year.
The long lifetime of PV modules can be demonstrated by an example from Germany. In the 1990s, our western neighbours launched the “1,000 roofs” programme to encourage Germans to switch to alternative sources of energy. 20 years later, scientists at the Chemnitz University of Technology tested the modules that were installed at that time. The performance of all installations significantly exceeded 80% of the initial capacity.
Yes, there are mounting structures dedicated to different roof coverings and roof angles. Thanks to their easy adjustability, they can provide a solid foundation for photovoltaic modules while maintaining the durability and airtightness of the roof.
The slope and azimuth angle of the roof surface largely determine the performance of the installation. In Poland, the highest efficiency is obtained with PV modules facing south with an angle of about 35°. Flat roof owners can take advantage of special designs that optimise the angle of the panels to increase the installation’s safety and annual energy yield.
The only constrains of installing PV modules are the building’s poor structural condition and shaded areas of the roof.
This is something that the installer or an advisor should assist the customer with. They will be able to calculate the required capacity of an installation based on electricity bills from recent years and an analysis of the technical parameters of the roof to help their customer choose the appropriate type and number of modules.
The home’s power requirements are an important consideration. The installer, along with the investor, must also consider whether major investments are planned in the coming years. Installing air conditioning, a heated driveway, or an electric car charger will all significantly increase power requirements. It is worth it to include these plans in the design.
Yes, it does. For silicon photovoltaic cells, low temperature has a beneficial effect on the operation of the photovoltaic system. This is because the cell voltage increases as the temperature decreases. The design of the modules allows them to work in very low temperatures, which is why we can use them even in Antarctica.
However, keep in mind that winter days are relatively short, and the intensity of sunlight is smaller than in the summer. As a result,, energy production will be lower than in sunny seasons.
If you are not a licensed installer – we strongly advise against installing a PV system yourself. Attempting to set up a photovoltaic system on your own without proper training is putting your health and life at unnecessary risk. An untrained “installer” can be electrocuted or fall from a great height. What is more, poorly installed systems will also operate less efficiently and may be more prone to faults and fires and also void manufacturer’s warranty.
Please contact experienced companies that specialise in PV installations.
A polycrystalline module is made from polycrystalline semiconductor cells, while a monocrystalline module uses monocrystalline cells.
Producing monocrystalline silicon requires more energy than producing polycrystalline silicon, which means that the former is more expensive. However, monocrystalline cells have higher solar conversion efficiency compared to polycrystalline cells, while amorphous cells rank last. This translates into the size of the area occupied by the modules. Respectively, monocrystalline cells occupy the smallest area of those listed, so they require less money for the mounting structure and installation itself.
Polycrystalline cells are cut from blocks of polycrystalline silicon, so they are square in shape. Monocrystalline silicon is made with the Czochralski method to form a cylinder, which is then cut into wafers after milling the side edges. The substrate of a mono cell has a characteristic shape like a square with rounded off corners.
Monocrystalline cells are very dark blue, almost black – much darker than blue or navy polycrystalline cells.
From a performance standpoint, it does not make a significant difference. A photovoltaic generator of a certain capacity, regardless of the type of modules used – polycrystalline or monocrystalline – will produce almost the same amount of power per unit time. When choosing cell technology, programs that simulate the yield of PV installations usually do not distinguish between poly and monocrystalline modules, only between crystalline and amorphous. However, in recent years, more emphasis has been placed on the development of monocrystallisation technology, so these cells feature, among other things, improved temperature coefficients that contribute to the increased efficiency of monocrystalline PV modules.
In most manufacturers’ modules, PV cells are connected using a metal strip designed to conduct electricity. Busbars are places prepared for soldering this tape, located on the back and front of the cell.
A traditional PV module is typically made up of 60 square cells. In half-cut modules, the cells are cut in half, thanks to which the panel is made up of not 60 but 120 rectangular cells. These are 2 strings of 60 half-cells connected parallel to each other. By changing the structure of how the cells are joined together in the module, resistance to the flow of current is reduced, resulting in an increase in the device’s efficiency of between 1.5 and 3%. In addition, the panel handles partial shade better.
PV INVERTERS
PV modules produce electricity in the form of direct current. The inverter’s job is to convert this energy into alternating current that is compatible with the electricity in the power grid.
Micro-inverters are devices that enable the conversion of direct current to alternating current from one or more PV modules. Unlike standard string inverters, which are placed further away from the modules, for example, on a wall in the service room, micro-inverters are fitted directly underneath the PV module. This minimises losses as less DC wiring is required, and it cuts out the cost of DC circuit protectors which are needed for string inverters. Such configuration significantly improves the installation’s safety as the maximum DC voltage that flows through the system is that of a single module. In addition, there is no need for any protection on the DC side. Micro-inverters are connected in parallel to one or three phases of AC wiring that leads directly to an AC switchboard.
Hybrid inverters are multi-functional devices that are connected to at least the power grid as well as an energy storage system. You can configure them according to your specific preferences, so the inverter will send the energy produced directly to the electrical appliances in your home. If the PV installation produces more energy than is required at the time, the excess energy does not have to be sent to the grid. It is possible to use it to charge an energy storage system. This allows the prosumer to enjoy free electricity after sunset when their PV system is not producing power.
Choosing the right inverter depends on the size of the system and the number of phases supplied. According to Polish regulations, owners of PV installations with a capacity exceeding 3.68 kW must choose a three-phase inverter. For smaller installations, there are no such restrictions, and it is possible to purchase both single-phase and three-phase inverters. A general rule of thumb for matching inverter’s power to the system’s power is that PV panel power should be in the range of 0.8-1.2 of the device’s AC power. If you want to find the perfect inverter for your installation, use our tool “TOOLTEC”. If you have more questions about selecting the right inverter, please contact Solfinity Customer Service.
Check whether the inverter switch is in the “I” position and make sure that the circuit breakers in the switchboard are engaged. If the inverter only operates at certain times, try to determine when the problems occur, and pay attention to weather conditions when they do. Gather as much information as possible and contact your installer.
Due to summer weather conditions, the inverter reaches higher temperatures during operation, but this does not affect its lifetime or failure rate.
Directly connecting a typical inverter and a micro-inverter is not possible. A PV system with a classic string inverter can be expanded by installing another separate PV system based on micro-inverters.
The principles of operation are the same as in a typical system. During the day, the prosumer uses the electricity produced by the PV system. Excess energy goes back into the grid.
In addition to the basic components such as panels, a mounting system, and electrical protections, you still need to purchase a control panel that manages all the micro-inverters in your installation.
Yes, provided the inverter is IP65 rated. It is good practice to protect the inverter by building a small canopy in order to shield it from the sun, rain, and hail. For important information on how to install the inverter, refer to the unit’s instruction manual.
The Kostal inverter can be connected to the internet via an Ethernet cable. This allows you to configure the inverter and download the mobile app. It can be used to check how much electricity a particular installation is generating at any given time. You can also review historical data from past weeks, months, or years. The app will also show how much energy was taken from the grid and how much was produced using the PV modules.
Yes, a Kostal Plenticore inverter is an ideal solution for people who are thinking about expanding their installation with an energy storage system. With this solution, one of the MPPT inputs can be used to connect a high-voltage battery already at the installation stage or later. There is an additional charge for this service.
Yes, under the new regulations that came into effect on the 19th of September 2020 – all PV installations above 6.5 kWp must be approved by a fire inspector and reported to the State Fire Service
Connecting StecaGrid inverter monitoring is very simple. All you must do is connect the inverter to the network via an Ethernet cable. You will then enter the inverter settings and activate monitoring. The installation will start automatically. If everything goes well, go to portal.powerdoo.com and register your inverter.
In case of any problems, please read the manual carefully.
To connect Sofar Solar inverter monitoring, all you need to do is screw the Wi-Fi adapter into the right place. Once the inverter is up and running, connect to it using the selected Wi-Fi network. Then proceed to register the inverter. The installer can do this at pro.solarmanpv.com. Installation owners can register at home.solarmanpv.com.
ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS
Energy storage is a particularly effective way to increase your energy autonomy. During the summer, daytime power production often exceeds the demand at any given time. In a standard installation, the excess is sent to the grid and the prosumer can collect it later. However, the grid owner takes 20–30% of the energy received. Whereas installations equipped with an energy storage system, redirect the electricity straight to the batteries, and the installation owner does not lose any kilowatts produced.
Owners of inverters with UPS or ESS function are also protected against power outages. The inverter will switch to emergency power mode and begin drawing power from the charged batteries. The prosumer will therefore be able to use electrical appliances despite the lack of electricity in the area.
Achieving full energy independence under current technical conditions is justified in places where there is no power grid. The optimal solution is to increase self-consumption in on-grid installations by using batteries.
The first step is to determine energy requirements. To do this, the prosumer should contact their installer or an advisor and analyse electricity bills from recent years as well as additional needs, such as protection against power outages.
In its simplest form, a PV system with energy storage consists of a hybrid inverter and a size- and type-matched energy storage system in the form of a battery. Other components of the PV system are the same as in a typical installation. A major difference is the need for the space to install the battery.
The Victron MultiPlus inverter, unlike many hybrid inverters, offers the ability to connect to an existing PV installation. It is a perfect solution for those who want to expand their installation with an energy storage system that has a UPS function.
Yes, in most cases the cables to connect to the inverter are included.
PV INSTALLATION DESIGNS
Yes, our design team can create a complete design of any installation up to 3 MW and prepare all necessary documents. Please contact your account manager for details.
The time of execution and pricing of the design is an individual matter which depends on many factors. In most cases, this should take no more than 7 business days. Please contact your account manager to discuss details.
The building design of a PV system includes a section on fire protection systems. A simple PV installation concept does not.
HEAT PUMPS
The lifespan of a heat pump is roughly 25-30 years. Its operation period largely depends on how it's used, with regular maintenance and servicing being crucial.
Yes, a heat pump will still provide heat even at low temperatures, although its efficiency significantly decreases. This also depends on whether the primary heat source is radiators or underfloor heating. For radiators, a high-temperature heat source may be needed, such as an immersion heater or gas boiler (if left in the customer's installation).
Yes, reversible heat pumps can both heat in winter and cool in summer, especially when underfloor heating is installed. In such cases, where there's a large heat exchange surface, cooling works very well. The pump's cycle is then reversed, extracting heat from the house and releasing it into the surroundings.
The most efficient heat source that works well with a heat pump is underfloor heating, due to its low supply temperatures (35°C) and large heat exchange surface.
Yes, the same heat pump can be used for both space heating (CH) and domestic hot water (DHW). In this case, a DHW tank is used to store the heat energy generated by the heat pump for hot water usage. Depending on the demand, a three-way valve transfers the energy produced by the heat pump to either CH or DHW.
A buffer tank, used in conjunction with a heat pump, is a well-insulated water tank containing water from the central heating system (CH), which is heated by the heat pump. Installing a buffer tank is recommended for every heat pump, ensuring a minimum amount of water in the heating system required for its proper operation. A properly sized CH buffer ensures efficient operation of the heat pump (preventing short cycling, which reduces the lifespan of the heat pump). The buffer tank is used for storing thermal energy.
Yes, for example, heat pumps from the Polish manufacturer Termet come with advanced controllers allowing for the control of temperatures in different heating circuits by installing wireless room controllers in rooms.
The nominal power of a heat pump is provided for an outside temperature of +7°C and a boiler temperature of +35°C (A7/W35). This standardization allows all manufacturers to provide heat pump capacities for the same conditions. It is the thermal power of the heat pump provided by the manufacturer for A7W35 conditions.
A split-type heat pump has a separated working system, with the compressor, evaporator, and expansion valve located outside, and the condenser with a circulation pump inside the building. Both units are connected by refrigerant/gas pipes. Installation of these heat pumps requires an F-gas license. A monoblock heat pump has all these components in a single housing located outside the building, with no need for F-gas licenses for gas circuitry work. However, for installation and initial commissioning, certified installers should be selected to maintain the heat pump warranty.
Yes, annual inspections ensure trouble-free long-term operation of the heat pump for the customer as well as maintaining the warranty.
Yes, in case of low temperatures (-10, -15°C) when the heat pump significantly loses efficiency and the COP is close to 2 or below, from an economic point of view, it is recommended to use a peak heat source, such as a gas boiler.
Monoblock air-to-water heat pumps, where hot water is used as the heat exchange medium, transferred from the external unit to inside the house through pipes, which must be well-insulated to prevent the water from losing its heat energy. However, the installation itself can be protected in several ways: anti-freeze valves, glycol solution, UPS - maintaining the operation of the circulation pump, preventing the water from freezing when it operates.
COP is the coefficient of performance/efficiency of a heat pump, indicating how much heat energy we obtain from 1 kWh of electrical energy. For example, COP = 5 means that for every 1 kWh of electrical energy consumed, we obtain 5 kWh of heat energy. The remaining 4 kWh of energy are taken from the surroundings by the heat pump.
Yes, leading heat pump manufacturers, including Polish manufacturer Termet, have solutions and applications that allow monitoring the pump's operation and parameters remotely, as well as changing operating modes, such as from eco to comfort.
Yes, through the "Smart Grid" function, a heat pump can cooperate with a photovoltaic installation, activating, for example, the heater in the buffer tank and DHW tank during the operation of the photovoltaic installation when excess energy is generated, thereby increasing self-consumption.
An inverter heat pump is essentially a compressor with a motor whose rotational speed is controlled by frequency, allowing for smooth regulation of the compressor's operation, i.e., motor speed. As a result, such compressors are energy-efficient. It's a heat pump with variable capacity adjusted to the current heat demand.
A split-type heat pump can be installed and commissioned by an authorized installer with F-gas qualifications, while a monoblock heat pump can be installed by anyone who is knowledgeable and has at least electrical qualifications. However, for the warranty to be recognized, initial commissioning and service inspections must be performed by an authorized installer.
A bivalent point is the moment when, due to a decrease in external temperature, the demand for heating energy in the building exceeds the energy produced by the heat pump. At this point, an electric heater or alternative peak heat source is activated.
FIRE SAFETY
Since September 19, 2020, every investor in Poland whose installation exceeds 6.5 kW is required to coordinate the project with a fire protection specialist. Additionally, the prosumer must notify the State Fire Service authorities upon completion of the PV installation construction. This obligation may not apply in other countries around the world. All agreements should be verified with local regulations.
Protection against potential fires is not difficult. All hazards can be largely eliminated at the installation design stage. Such a design includes information about component selection, considers protection against external threats, provides appropriate installation guidelines, or indicates the main hazards. This helps minimize the risk of error during installation.
Yes, similar to standard installations, every investor in Poland whose installation exceeds 6.5 kW is required to coordinate the project with a fire protection specialist and inform the State Fire Service authorities. This obligation may not apply in other countries around the world. All agreements should be verified with local regulations.
The most common cause of fires in PV installations is atmospheric discharges. Secondly, responsibility lies with installation defects. Incidents caused by equipment failures are a minority.
PROCEDURE GUARANTEE
First, contact Solfinity Service and describe the malfunction. Some problems can be solved remotely without the need for disassembly and equipment shipment. If the problem is not resolved, the warranty procedure begins with filling out the warranty form, which you will find here.
Then send the product to us at the address provided in the form above. Solfinity Service will diagnose the device within 2 business days of receipt.
a) If Solfinity Service does not confirm the described malfunctions, the device will be promptly returned to the address provided in the complaint.
b) If Solfinity Service confirms the malfunctioning of the device, it will be reported to the Guarantor (manufacturer), who will make the final decision on the device replacement. After the Guarantor approves the complaint, Solfinity Service will immediately send a new device or perform necessary service work.
c) If additional information is required or the complaint is rejected by the Guarantor, Solfinity Service will contact the person indicated in the complaint.
If the goods were damaged during transport, please prepare a damage report with the carrier and contact your customer service representative directly.
You can find the full complaint procedure here.
The manufacturer is the guarantor of the purchased equipment.
The duration of the warranty depends on the manufacturer of the structure. You will find information about this on the subpage of the product you are interested in.
At Solfinity, our qualified team offers comprehensive service for damaged equipment even after the warranty period expires. After receiving the faulty device from you, we will carry out the necessary diagnostics. If repair is possible, we will perform the necessary service work.
Some manufacturers offer this possibility. Examples of manufacturers that offer the option to extend the warranty period are SofarSolar (possibility to extend up to 15 or 20 years) and Hoymiles (possibility to extend the warranty for microinverters up to 20 or 25 years). To extend the warranty, please contact your customer service representative.
At the moment, manufacturers do not offer an extension of the warranty period for PV modules. However, you don't have to worry because the brands we work with offer up to a 30-year warranty on their products.
The complaint is processed based on the proof of purchase. You will find warranty terms on the product page on the Solfinity platform.
SHOPPING AND COLLABORATION WITH SOLFINITY
When the goods are available in the warehouse, the order processing time should not exceed 2-3 business days from the receipt of payment. Some Solfinity products are individually imported upon request. In this case, the order processing time depends on the product you choose and may be longer than the standard delivery time.
For orders to be shipped, pay for the order only after receiving the pro forma invoice. The shipping cost will be added to the order, which varies depending on the size of the delivery and the type of products purchased – the delivery cost will be visible on the pro forma invoice.
If you are picking up the order in person, you can pay for it immediately, for example, using PayU.
You can check the price and availability of the product after logging in to the Solfinity platform. If you do not have an account on the Solfinity platform yet, please register.
If you find the information "Ask for availability" under the product, it means that the product is unavailable, and we currently do not have a scheduled delivery date. If you are interested in ordering a product marked with this status, please contact our customer service representative directly or use the form that will appear after clicking the "Ask for availability" button.
If the delivery of the product is already scheduled, information about its expected delivery to the warehouse can be found on the product page. In other cases, please contact our customer service representative directly.
If you want to change the delivery addresses, log in to your account on the Solfinity platform. In the top right corner of the page, click on the "Account" button, then select the "Delivery addresses" tab.
If you want to change your personal data, after clicking the "Account" button, select the "Your data" tab.
Yes, it is possible to create subaccounts for several people. After logging in, go to your account (by clicking on the "Account" button in the top right corner of the page) and then to the "Manage subaccounts" section. You can specify the permissions for subaccounts as desired and add or remove them at any time.
If you run a business, we invite you to register on our platform. After registration, we will contact you to verify your account. You will gain access to wholesale prices and warehouse stocks. We will also provide you with the assistance of a dedicated customer service representative.
It is possible to reserve goods and pick them up at a later date or delay shipping upon the customer's request - after making a purchase on the platform. If you want to set an individual delivery date, please contact our customer service representative directly.
All files with technical documentation, such as datasheets, warranties, certificates, and instructions, can be found on the product page under the "Attachments" tab.
INVESTMENT IN PHOTOVOLTAICS
The cost of installation depends on many factors. Clients can choose from many brands of modules or inverters, which vary in price. Another significant factor is the size of the home power plant. On average, it is assumed that currently in Poland, one has to pay around 4600-5500 PLN net per 1 kW.
Consumers can, however, count on subsidies from governmental and regional programs, which help reduce the cost of purchasing and installing the system. Banks are also increasingly willing to offer attractive loans.
It is assumed that a well-chosen PV installation will pay off for the consumer in approximately 6-7 years from its installation. Rising prices of energy obtained from conventional sources may further accelerate the estimated payback time.
The installation of photovoltaic modules is economically unjustified when electricity bills do not exceed approximately 150 PLN per month, concerning the Polish market. The smaller the installation, the proportionally higher the price of all necessary elements of the home power plant.
Of course, installing PV modules on the roof is always profitable if the consumer values environmentally friendly solutions that benefit our planet. Environmental benefits can never be converted into money.
COMPONENTS OF SOLFINITY MOUNTING STRUCTURES
All Solfinity mounting structures are covered by a 10-year warranty. You can find the terms of its validity at this address.
Solfinity mounting structures are coated with Magnelis® coating. This is a solution introduced to the market by ArcelorMittal, a global leader in steel production. Rigorous tests conducted before the solution was introduced to the market confirm significantly higher strength and corrosion resistance compared to galvanized elements. The manufacturer also guarantees increased durability in rural, urban, and coastal environments. Magnelis® is the only metallic coating certified for use in C5 environments.
Solfinity mounting systems are available for installations mounted on both flat and sloped roofs. Our systems can be installed on roofs with metal tiles, ceramic tiles, shingles, slate, and trapezoidal sheeting. Detailed installation instructions can be found at the bottom of this page.
Yes, at SOLACADEMY, we regularly organize meetings where you will have the opportunity to acquire the necessary knowledge under the guidance of our expert. Registrations for training sessions take place at this address.
In the event of rust deposits appearing at cutting or drilling locations, they will gradually be covered by a protective layer of Magnelis®. This unique, dense layer also forms on edges, welds, perforations, and scratches. Therefore, this type of situation is not grounds for complaint.
Even the installation of PV systems according to the instructions and with compliance with all standards requires inspections. Preventive inspections should be carried out annually and completed with an entry in the warranty card.
iONTEC
iONTEC is Solfinity's proprietary brand under which we offer distribution boards, mounting structures, and energy storage systems prepared for both individual and business investors. The offering is complemented by iONTEC Connect, which enables simultaneous communication and integration with inverters from various brands, necessary under the new OSD regulations, as well as sets for reducing electricity costs in comprehensive thermal modernization. The latter, based on components from renowned manufacturers such as Hypontech and Hoymiles, were created for small prosumers who want to benefit from subsidies under the Clean Air program.
Choosing the iONTEC brand means full support and technical-service advice both before and after purchase. Solfinity experts will assist in selecting suitable mounting structure elements and distribution boards. iONTEC BESS customers opting for industrial-class energy storage can expect assistance not only in choosing the right capacity but also in installation and system programming. Components used to create iONTEC products come from renowned Polish and international suppliers and have all the necessary certifications required for device installation in Poland.
iONTEC 3 is a service based on three pillars. The first is a battery system with a capacity of 215 kWh, the second is a special EMS prepared to cooperate with OIRE and CSIRE, and the third is a special technical support offer including periodic inspections and remote assistance.
The EMS system is an advanced version of the standard EMS used in battery systems. The EMS prepared by Solfinity meets the requirements arising from the launch of energy market processes through CSIRE, which is set to take effect from July 1, 2025. Moreover, it enables the investor to actively participate in the energy market and profit from price arbitrage, among other benefits. It also maximizes energy security by operating in off-grid mode.
iONTEC BESS energy storage systems are designed for both individual customers looking for home energy storage (up to 21.3 kWh) and business customers, as industrial solutions iONTEC BESS can accommodate from 138 kWh to 1.1 MWh of electrical energy. This is an excellent solution for those seeking to increase energy independence, boost self-consumption, and take advantage of price spreads resulting from tariff differences.
Yes, Solfinity experts are available both before and after transactions. The technical team will provide full support during installation and initial commissioning and can mediate discussions with suppliers to help resolve any issues.
iONTEC FRAME structures can be used on both flat and sloped roofs with various types of coverings.
Yes, all iONTEC FRAME structure components are covered by a 10-year warranty. All general terms can be found on the product pages under the "Attachments" tab.
At Solfinity, we offer Tooltec, a free tool on our website that assists in selecting and completing the mounting structure as well as the entire photovoltaic installation. The Technical Department is also available to help with any questions or issues.
No, all iONTEC BOX distribution board components are pre-prepared for assembly and installation (including surface-mounted). Its installation should not pose a challenge even for a novice installer. In case of issues, each distribution board comes with an assembly manual.
iONTEC Connect is a module that connects with inverters from various manufacturers and allows simultaneous control of their parameters.
iONTEC Connect communicates with all hybrid and grid-tied inverters that meet the RS-485 data transmission standard.
OTHER QUESTIONS
The basic components of any PV systems are the photovoltaic modules and the inverter. Photovoltaic modules are the muscles of the installation that are responsible for production of energy. The inverter converts direct current generated by the panels into alternating current and monitors the operation of the entire system. Thanks to the inverter, we know how much electricity the home power plant has generated. It is the brain of the entire system.
An installation also includes connecting cables that connect the modules to the inverter and the inverter to the switchboard. A vital component is the mounting structure, which ensures that the PV modules are securely attached to your roof or the ground.
Building your own PV system is expensive, so it is important to make sure it is safe. Electrical protections such as surge arresters are an important part of this.
To maximise energy yields, it is also worthwhile to consider purchasing power optimisers.
For those who want to store the energy produced, we propose to enhance the installation with an energy storage system.
Tigo power optimisers search for maximum power point at the level of a given module to which they are connected. These allow the module to achieve the highest possible capacity it can at any given time, regardless of how much power other modules are generating. An installation without optimisers works as well as the weakest panel that is, e.g., in the shade. By using optimisers, we improve the operation of the weakest panels so that the entire installation works even better.
This is a perfect solution, for example, when the module is partially shaded or when the roof has many slopes.
The big advantage of Tigo power optimisers is that they are fully compatible with most inverters and that they can be fitted to modules that require it and not to all modules in the installation.