Introduction In this article, we will be comparing the two most widely used and industry standard photovoltaic simulation software packages in the Australian solar industry, PVsyst vs. Helioscope. The increased requirement for system modelling has seen the rise of simulation tools such as PVSyst, Helioscope, System Advisory Model (SAM), HOMER Pro and packages delivered by […]
Category: Design
Solar System Operation and Maintenance In Australia
Solar System Operation and Maintenance (O&M) is a topic of growing importance in Australia. Australia has been steadily installing rooftop and utility scale PV systems since the early 2010s. Issues will begin to occur as systems age, and as the number of installations has risen exponentially over time so too will the number of issues. […]
Financial Impacts of Voltage Control Inverter Response Modes
Photovoltaic (PV) power systems have been deployed in record numbers across the globe. Leading the charge is one of the sunniest countries in the world, Australia. From insignificant levels in the beginning of the 21st century, there is now over 12.9 GW of combined capacity across Australia. Majority of this installed capacity are small scale grid-connected distributed […]
Three Phase Fault Calculations in AC Systems and the Contribution from PV Grid-connected Inverters
Introduction There are two major problems that can occur in an electrical system – open circuits and short circuits. Of the two, the latter has more detrimental effects on the system. A short circuit fault is an abnormal or unintended connection of live elements touching each other or to earth. Typically, short circuit faults are […]
Variations in Modelled and Actual Site Energy Generation
Executive summary As Solar PV systems become more mainstream and bankable, customers are pushing for performance security guarantees and this creates pressure on contractors to offer the best results. Unfortunately, this will mean someone will be financially affected if they take the estimate too far and the system cannot meet this target. The following case […]
Protection Coordination of Circuit Breakers
Introduction Protection coordination/selectivity With utilities and DNSPs becoming strict on network applications, protection coordination studies are becoming more prevalent and often are requirements before connecting and energizing a grid connected PV system. Therefore, it is important that circuit breaker and other protective device coordination is achieved before installing the system, as this can cause unwanted […]
Recycling Solar Panels
Most solar panels or PV (photovoltaic) modules have a life expectancy of 20-30 years unless they become damaged, defective or need to be replaced due to decrease in efficiency. The amount of PV modules which are to be decommissioned is anticipated to increase rapidly in the coming years, as the early adopters of the solar […]
Stand-Alone Power Systems Unleashed for Networks
Horizon Power’s SAPS system at Cape Le Grand, east of Esperance. (Source: Horizon Power) On 30th May 2019 the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) released its final report on the “Review of the Regulatory Frameworks for Stand-Alone Power Systems – Priority 1”. The report sets out the recommendations from the Commission for regulatory change which allows […]
Sizing DC Isolators with AS/NZ 5033:2014 – Changes in Amendment 2
AS/NZS 5033:2014 Amendment 2 changes to sizing DC isolators came into effect on 28th June 2019. The new requirements simplify the process of selecting an isolator and ensure that thermal effects are taken into account. It addresses fire risk issues and improves design and installation practices. This is an essential part of Grid Connected Solar Design […]
Aluminium vs Copper DC Cables: Which is better?
Copper is by far the most widely used conductor in electrical wiring. It benefits from high conductivity and corrosion resistance, making it perfect for a wide range of applications. Due to high demand however, it is significantly more expensive when compared to alternatives such as aluminium. We we will clear up the debate of Aluminium […]