AC Rated Power
AC nominal power is a crucial metric in photovoltaics, indicating the maximum power that an inverter can convert from the generated direct current (DC) into usable alternating current (AC). This AC can then be fed directly into the power grid or used in the household.
Functionality and Importance
- Conversion from DC to AC: Solar panels generate direct current. To make this usable for the household or the power grid, it needs to be converted into alternating current. This task is performed by the inverter.
- Power limitation: The AC nominal power specifies how much power the inverter can handle at most. If the power generated by the solar panels exceeds the AC nominal power, the excess energy may be curtailed.
- System design: When planning a photovoltaic system, the AC nominal power must be carefully matched to the total power of the solar panels. Too low of an AC nominal power restricts energy yield, while too high of a power capacity can result in unnecessary costs.
Influencing Factors
- Inverter technology: The efficiency of the DC to AC conversion depends on the technology of the inverter. Modern inverters achieve efficiencies of over 95%.
- Solar panels: The total power of the solar panels determines how much direct current is available.
- Angle of the sun: Solar radiation varies throughout the day and year. This affects the performance of the solar panels and thus the load on the inverter.
Optimal Design
An optimal photovoltaic system design considers the following aspects:
- Self-consumption: How much electricity is to be consumed on-site?
- Grid feed-in: Should excess power be fed into the public grid?
- Location conditions: What is the solar radiation like at the location?
- Future electricity needs: How will electricity demand develop in the future?
Conclusion: The AC nominal power is a key factor for the efficiency and profitability of a photovoltaic system. Proper planning and design by an experienced installer are therefore essential.
Additional keywords: Inverter, Solar panels, Direct current, Alternating current, Efficiency, Photovoltaic system