Spring solar checkup

[D Boggess]

When we start seeing flowers, that can be like a magnet pulling you outdoors. This year, my attention was drawn to blue skies and solar production. 

In winter months, I don't pay much attention to solar output because December and January numbers are quite low unless you live near the equator. In April, we can expect to see more solar output, depending on the amount of clouds and rain.

The amount of our winter kWh sent to the grid has been unusually low. At first, I thought it was because we were using more electricity for a cold weather heat pump, a heat pump water heater and charging an electric car. Although that was true, I had not considered that my solar system might be defective. 

Normally I check solar performance by looking at the electric meter and monthly electric bills, but they don't tell me how much solar energy is being produced. When I looked at the online inverter report, I was surprised to learn that several micro inverters on our first solar array were not operating. That means that most of the solar panels are producing electricity, but several were under performing. 

Micro inverters control the output of one or two solar panels independent of the others. Failure of a micro inverter is different from a central inverter failure that shuts down the entire system until it is repaired or replaced. Micro failures have a subtle effect that may not be noticed for some time. Fortunately, I discovered it in March rather than October near the end of peak solar season.  Inverters are the weak link in solar systems. You can expect to replace an inverter.

We expect to have about 20 percent more energy production this summer after a solar company technician replaced the defective micros (under warranty). That's worth a few hundred dollars in lower electric bills. 

Solar companies can monitor your solar production online to identify discrepancies. They can also provide a spring tuneup to check wiring and the presence of leaves or animal nests that could become a fire hazard.

The electric grid needs more electricity from all sources. Fortunately, we have renewable energy technology that is providing a partial solution to that problem. 

I enjoy having an attitude of energy abundance rather than scarcity. Some protection from electric rate increases is welcome.

Darrell