Course Content
Solar and Inverter Insallation
A solar and inverter installation involves mounting solar panels, connecting them to the inverter, and then wiring the inverter to the battery and/or the grid. Key steps include securing the panel mounts, attaching the panels at an optimal angle, and using appropriate connectors like MC4s to link the panels to the inverter. Finally, the inverter must be properly grounded and connected to a battery (for energy storage) and a main electrical panel or consumer unit, with all electrical codes and manufacturer instructions followed.  1. Prepare the site and install mounts Set up any necessary scaffolding and safety equipment. Install mounting brackets for the solar panels, securing them to the rafters or structure according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure panels will be positioned at an optimal angle for sun exposure.  This video demonstrates how to install solar mounts and panels, including 2. Install the solar panels Mount the solar panels onto the installed brackets. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely. Position the panels to maximize solar energy capture.  3. Connect electrical wiring  Connect the solar panels to each other, often in a series, using compatible connectors like MC4s. Route the DC wires from the panels to the inverter's location. Double-check that the total voltage and current from the panels are within the inverter's specifications.  4. Connect the inverter Securely connect the DC input wires from the panels to the correct terminals on the inverter, following the manufacturer's instructions. Connect the solar inverter to the battery bank using appropriate wiring. This allows for energy storage and use during cloudy times or at night. If your system includes a charge controller, connect it according to the manufacturer's instructions, which may be housed in a control panel along with isolators. Connect the AC output of the inverter to the consumer unit or main electrical panel, which will then distribute the power to your home. Install a meter to monitor the electricity generated.  5. Finalize and test the system Ensure the inverter is properly grounded to prevent electrical hazards. Double-check all connections for security and correct polarity. Follow local electrical codes and regulations for the entire installation. Once all connections are confirmed, turn on the power supply to test the system. 
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Training on solar and inverter| How to Size Breakers Between Inverter, Battery, and Loads
06:38
How to Size Solar Charge Controller
16:29
How to Size a Solar Power System for Your Home (DIY)
19:00
Solar and Inverter Installation
To size a solar power system for your home, first determine your daily energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh) by checking your electricity bills. Next, divide your daily kWh usage by your local average peak sunlight hours to find the total system size in kilowatts (kW). Finally, calculate the number of panels needed by dividing the total system wattage by the wattage of each individual solar panel. 
1. Assess your energy consumption 
  • Find your average daily usage: Review your electricity bills for the past 12 months to find your total annual kWh usage. Divide this number by 365 to get your average daily consumption in kWh. For a more conservative estimate, divide your highest monthly usage by the number of days in that month.
  • Identify peak usage: Note the times of day your energy consumption is highest to help in designing the system. 

2. Calculate your system size (kW) 
  • Find peak sun hours: Research the average daily peak sun hours for your specific location.
  • Divide daily usage by sun hours: Divide your average daily energy consumption (in kWh) by the number of peak sun hours to determine the required system size in kilowatts (kW).
    • Formula: System Size (kW) = Daily Energy Usage (kWh) / Peak Sun Hours
    • Example: If you use
      30 kWh30 kWh

      30 kWh

      per day and your area averages

      55

      5

      peak sun hours, you will need a

      6 kW6 kW

      6 kW

      system (

      30÷5=630 divided by 5 equals 6

      30÷5=6

      ). 

3. Determine the number of panels 
  • Find the wattage of the panels you plan to use: Check the specifications of the solar panels you intend to purchase. Panels are often rated between

    300W300 W

    300W

    and

    500W500 W

    500W

    .

  • Calculate the number of panels: Divide the total system wattage you calculated in the previous step by the wattage of a single panel. Remember to convert kW to Watts for the calculation (e.g.,

    6 kW=6000W6 kW equals 6000 W

    6 kW=6000W

    ).

    • Formula: Number of Panels = Total System Wattage (W) / Panel Wattage (W)
    • Example: For a

      6000W6000 W

      6000W

      system with

      400W400 W

      400W

      panels:

      6000÷400=156000 divided by 400 equals 15

      6000÷400=15

      panels.

  • Round up: Always round up to the next whole number to ensure you have enough capacity. 

4. Consider other factors 
  • Inverter size: Select an inverter with a capacity that can handle the total output of your solar array and your peak simultaneous load.
  • Battery storage: If you need power at night, include battery storage in your system design.
  • Physical constraints: Measure your available roof space to see if it can accommodate the number of panels you’ve calculated.
  • Future needs: Account for potential increases in your energy usage in the future, such as adding new appliances.
  • Professional consultation: It is highly recommended to consult with a solar professional to ensure accurate sizing and installation. 
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