iCON iSOLAR 4” PDP Instruction Manual
9
6b.
Solar array installation cont.
SOLAR ARRAY
•
The Solar array must face True North.
•
The solar panel angle should correspond to the latitude of the site.
Consult the instructions supplied with the solar array to assist your
decision regarding the best angle for your situation.
As a rule of thumb, solar panels should be more vertical during winter to gain
most of the low winter sun, and flatter during summer to maximize the output.
•
Protect the array and controller from stock.
•
Any shading whatsoever will reduce the solar panel(s) performance so locate the
panels with this in mind. Panel shadowing is like “open circuiting” a panel.
•
Dust or bird droppings will impair the array energy output. Keep panels clean.
•
Ensure the array is earthed to ground in the event of lightning strike
To minimise energy losses the following chart provides recommended cable sizes. If
calculating your own cable size, maximum voltage drop allowable is 3%.
ROOF MOUNT ARRAY
(NZ Only):
Because the most common structure is a wooden frame, the panels and
mounting system have no direct path to earth. In the event of lightning strike,
the earth path is entirely via the combiner box.
•
Install a minimum 6mm
2
earth strap to a ground stake.
GENERATOR SIZING:
Total kW of the solar array, multiplied by 1.1 then divided by 0.8
= minimum kVa required from the generator.