Product Description

Photovoltaic (PV) 'Tier 1' solar panels generate electricity by converting sunlight to electricity. New Zealand receives good solar radiation and solar PV can still generate significant solar power on cooler, overcast days. Positioning the PV solar panels in an un-shaded area facing the correct direction will produce the most energy. Alternatively, PV systems can be used as the stand-alone power supply for a property. In this case, the power you generate is stored in batteries for use when the sun is not shining.

There are 2 solar PV panel brands available:  

• Canadian Solar (http://www.canadiansolar.com/solar-panels/cs6x-p-fg.html)
  
• Jinko Solar (http://www.jinkosolar.com/product.htm)

For lower power applications, (standard household energy loads) Energy Alternatives offers Aqueous Hybrid Ion (AHI) battery.

• An optional world leading Aquion salt water battery bank is offered for storage of excess solar energy during peak times.  Aquion S-Line battery is an innovative solution that provides a low toxicity and low environmental impact battery that has received Cradle-2-Cradle certification in the USA. For more information on this battery solution visit http://www.aquionenergy.com/energy-storage-technology

• Battery-compatible micro inverters are then provided which allow individual solar panels to work at full capacity even if a selected panel is not in use. Battery compatible string inverters or micro inverters are then provided which allow individual solar panels to work at full capacity even if a selected panel is shaded or otherwise not in use. The solar panels are connected to the home's electrical system and the national grid and therefore any extra energy generated will flow to the grid. System designs are optimized to maximize customer self consumption which includes an assessment of energy profiles and identification of energy demands, (such as water heating) which may be shifted to day time use thus maximizing return on investment.

Permission and configuration of system with the utility companies is essential along with compliance with all local Council building codes and National Standards.

Technical and Environmental Benefits

• Solar radiation is an abundant energy source which is free, non-polluting, and renewable
• Photovoltaics (PV) solar panels generate electricity with no noise, and no emissions
• Offer high module efficiency and outstanding performance at low irradiation (non sunny days) the panels are accredited Salt mist/Ammonia resistant and suitable for NZ's coastal environment. Solar panels are backed with a 10/25 year linear Power Warranty with added 25 year insurance coverage.

Both Micro & string inverter options with supporting energy storage are available. Enphase micro inverters available in single or 3 phase and are suitable for small residential up to large commercial applications. Offering an all-AC design approach the output power is 220/230VA with inverter efficiencies between 96.5 & 97.3 peak. The Enphase energy storage option is the Enphase AC battery - utilizing Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery chemistry, Capacity 1.2kWh per battery with DOD >95% The modular approach allows for easy and cost effective addition of storage as needs change.

The Fronius Snapinverter range covers the entire spectrum of market requirements, offering modular system design architecture which is battery ready. Suitable for small residential up to mega commercial, the Fronius range of inverters is supported with comprehensive Data management, solar monitoring and is battery ready. The Fronius Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery chemistry offers a world leading 8,000 cycles at 80% DOD, establishing itself far ahead of others. Tesla powerwall systems are also compatible.

For lower power applications, (standard household energy loads) Energy Alternatives proudly offers the first of it's kind, Aqueous Hybrid Ion (AHI) battery. The "Salt Water Battery" contain no heavy metals or toxic chemicals and are non-flammable and non explosive, making them the safest batteries in the world. They are the first and only batteries to be "Cradle to Cradle Certified" and are designed for use in pristine environments, island locations, homes & businesses. Each Aquion S-line battery stack offers -2kWh, nominal 48V output and is a standard building block for flexible system design. The Aquion M-line modules offer -25kWh / 12 stacks in parallel and come prewired and forklift ready for easy deployment.

Manufacturer and Supplier Information - Energy Alternatives

Energy Alternatives is a small to medium size enterprise with its head office on Waiheke Island and warehouse & logistics facilities located in South Auckland distributing nationwide.  Energy Alternatives NZ uniquely designed Aquarian range of All-in-One heat pump water heaters are manufactured using both Panasonic heat pumps and the proven Electrolux manufacturing line of stainless steel hot water cylinders.

The success of Energy Alternatives is based upon a highly motivated desire to provide affordable and robust energy solutions which, through innovative, integrated and economy of scale offerings, enable our clients to achieve cost effective solutions.

Application and Purpose

Solar photovoltaic panels are used in solar energy systems as the key electricity generating components. The product and system is scale-able to any level ranging from small residential grid-tied systems, to larger off-grid residential, to full commercial sized applications with  or without back-up storage.

Installation and Maintenance

Installation is consisting of mechanical mounting of the rails and the panels plus electrical connection of DC power and AC power. When considering installation, it is important to assess the available roof area, ensure that it has a northern aspect and identify any potential shading. The DC electricalconnection must comply with latest DC power regulations, to ensure safe connection, earthing, clear labelling and appropriate switches. Coordination and permission from the utility companies is essential.