Solar Energy Equipment

Solar Panels (or Solar Modules) Solar modules, more commonly known as solar panels, are the iconic piece of equipment in solar energy systems. Photovoltaic (PV) solar modules are composed of silicon semi-conductors specially designed to harness the sun’s energy in a process known as the photovoltaic effect.

When exposed to sun, the PV solar panels produce energy in the form of a direct current (DC) charge.
This DC charge, the same as in your car, can be measured in units of power, or watts.
Similarly, you may have noticed “kilowatt hours” on your monthly energy bill. This is a unit of 1,000 (kilo) watts used per hour.
Commercial solar installs DC black solar panels.
Solar modules can range in their energy output from roughly 75 watts to 350 watts, with an average output of about 250 watts.
When solar panels are grouped together, they form an array. The energy potential (or size) of that array is classified by the number of panels multiplied by their output rating (in watts).
For example, an array of (20), 250-watt solar panels would have energy potential of 5 kilowatts (20 modules x 250 watts = 5,000 watts).
For size determination, we would call this a “5 kW Array.” If the average home uses 11,280 kilowatts per year, a 5kW solar array would offset roughly 57% of their energy usage.
With ideal solar access, you can roughly estimate the yearly solar production by multiplying the “kW” size by 1.3. (A 5kW solar array x 1.3 = 6,500 kilowatt-hours per year).

Inverters

Since solar modules produce a DC charge, it is necessary to convert direct current to alternating current (AC), as to accommodate the commercial appliances and fixtures within your home or business. Inverters regulate the energy produced by the solar modules and adapt it to appropriate levels necessary for your energy usage, and are compatible with single-phase (most residential) and three-phase (generally commercial) applications. Solar inverters make the connection to your existing electrical meter and provide communication on solar production to technicians and other solar equipment, such as monitoring devices (see Monitoring). There are two main types of inverters for solar energy systems, each with their own advantages:

Central Inverters

Central inverters are generally used for arrays that have large amounts of solar access
Central inverters often are less expensive, and group “strings” of solar panels
This allows for fewer components of the energy system, and central access to equipment

Micro Inverters

Micro inverters are generally used when a portion of an array is temporarily shaded
Micro inverters are assigned to each individual solar panel
This allows technicians to monitor and analyze each solar module’s energy production

Racking Systems

Solar arrays are most commonly placed on either the roof of a facility or on the ground in a designated clearing. “Racking” refers to the structural systems that secure the solar arrays in place. Since these racking systems are designed to support the weight of the solar panels, as well as withstand hurricane-force winds up to 90 mph, their method of attachment varies based on their mounting style and location.

Prospect Solar can also provide custom-designed solar solutions for racking structures, as well as integrate solar with green roofs (vegetative roofs). In cases of roof mounts, we also have the unique abilities to maintain roof warranties as well as offer remedial roof repair.

Ground Mounts

Ground mounts are typically made of aluminum racking supported by galvanized steel, and are certified by structural engineers.

Ideal for applications with open spaces (such as solar for vineyards or farms)
Allows for larger solar arrays and larger offset of utility bills
Serves as a solution for roof shading or limited roof space
Typically attach to ground through concrete pillars or footings
Some models can serve as solar canopies with parking/storage space below

Ballasted Roof Mounts

Ballasted roof mounts are typically composed of “ballast trays” made of a recycled material such as polyethylene, which helps prevent puncturing of roofing membranes.

Ideal for applications with flat roofs (such as solar for commercial buildings)
Allows for minimal or even zero penetrations of the roof surface to preserve roof integrity
Uses weighted pavers or ballast blocks to secure arrays to roof
Allows for solar installation on EPDM, TPO (thermoplastic), built-up roofing, and other flat roofs
Prospect Solar has the unique ability to install solar and maintain waterproofing warranties

Flush Roof Mounting

Flush roof mounting allows for solar panels to be mounted onto homes in a secure and low-profile fashion.

Ideal for pitched roofs of varying angles (such as solar for homes)
Allows for minimal penetrations by tying into the existing roof framing
All penetrations are fitted with waterproof flashings, which are sealed and inspected
Can be installed on composite (asphalt shingle), wooden shake, metal (standing seam), and slate roofs
Wiring, grounding, and micro inverters (if selected) are tucked neatly below solar panels