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Advantages of Adding Solar Panels vs Upsizing Wire

Apr 16, 2024

When you’re setting up a solar panel system with long distances between the panels and inverters, it’s important to consider how to maintain efficiency and reduce voltage drop. One common solution is to increase the wire size, but this may have its limitations when dealing with extended distances. That’s where adding more panels to the mix can bring several benefits to the table.

 

First up, let’s talk about cost-effectiveness. Sometimes, tossing in an extra panel can actually be a more pocket-friendly option than splurging on thicker wires. The price of additional panels is often much lower than investing in heavy-duty wires needed for lengthy runs – sometimes, it is a difference of thousands of dollars.

 

Next, efficiency plays a big role. By adding panels to the array, you’re ensuring that your system generates enough power to counter any losses from voltage drop. This move can help you squeeze out maximum energy from your setup.

 

Now, let’s touch on redundancy and reliability. More panels mean more backup. If one of your panels decides to take a nap or doesn’t perform up to par, the impact on your system won’t be as harsh compared to having just a few panels spread over long distances.

 

The ease of installation is another factor to consider. Adding panels might be a breeze compared to the sweat and tears involved in setting up heavy-duty wires for those long runs. This could save you valuable time and money during the installation process.

 

Thinking about the future is essential too. By incorporating more panels, you’re keeping the door wide open for expanding your system down the line. This scalability can come in handy when your energy needs evolve or when you decide it’s time to go bigger on your RaVolt system.

 

In a nutshell, while increasing your wire size can help combat voltage drop to a certain extent, throwing in some extra panels provides a holistic solution that tackles both efficiency and cost concerns, especially in scenarios where solar panels and inverters are separated by long distances. So, next time you’re planning out your solar setup, consider the perks of adding a few more panels to the party!