When designing solar, variable weather conditions and low peak sun hours pose challenges for solar energy clients. During winter months when sunlight is scarce, fully charging batteries for nighttime use becomes a concern. This is where oversizing your solar system becomes the solution because you’re utilising the sun, protecting yourself from these variations and ensuring optimal performance.
What is oversizing?
Oversizing a solar system involves installing more solar panels than the capacity of the inverter. This surplus capacity compensates for factors like low sunlight or overcast conditions.
For example: If you have a solar system installed with a total capacity of 10kW but your inverter’s capacity is only 8kW, your solar panels are oversized compared to the inverter because they have a greater capacity.
How Hybrid Inverters Work:
Hybrid Inverters play a crucial role in oversizing. They are designed to integrate solar panels, batteries and the grid for efficient energy management. New hybrid inverters can be oversized by up to 200% when combined with batteries which also increases rebate benefits.
Why is the system design so important?
Effective system design is essential for maximising the benefits of oversizing. Tailoring the system to meet specific household requirements and accounting for factors like shade and winter conditions are crucial considerations. Strategic oversizing is particularly beneficial for locations with limited sunlight.
Increased Rebate Benefits
Not only is energy efficiency increased with an oversized system, but as a bonus, it can also lead to increased rebate benefits. While larger systems do entail higher upfront costs, the prospect of maximising rebate opportunities can contribute to a more favourable ROI (return on investment).
Oversizing your solar system ensures optimal energy production and management, even during periods of limited sunlight. Adding extra panels minimises power loss and enhances inverter efficiency. Despite higher upfront costs, the potential for a larger ROI is significant. Looking at long-term gain, this translates to substantial savings, making oversizing a smart choice for homeowners and businesses alike.