Homeowners in Missouri and Kansas who are looking into solar power have probably seen that panels from some manufacturers are able to provide built-in solar panel monitoring. While this might not sound like a significant feature to some, others will recognize just how important it can be in the long term.
We’re going to dig into solar panel monitoring and find out what exactly it is. Then, we’re going to look at why solar panel monitoring is so important to the average homeowner that just wants to gain some energy independence. In the end, if you need a trusted local resource to discuss your solar needs with, we’ll point you in the right direction.
What Is Solar Panel Monitoring?
Solar panel monitoring is a relatively straightforward concept and is just what it sounds like, monitoring solar panels in a more or less real-time environment. This is something that has only become available on solar equipment within the last handful of years, but it’s also something that’s going to help increase the resilience and longevity of solar installations for decades to come.
Traditionally, it has been nearly impossible to monitor conventional solar panels on an individual basis. This is because the panels were simply power generation and transmission equipment, and did not contain any computational power. Now that equipment has become increasingly sophisticated, not only does each panel in the Enphase system have a built-in inverter, but they also have the ability to report on their own status and operational state. This gives homeowners and even installers unprecedented visibility into the health of their solar systems.
Why is Solar Panel Monitoring Important for Residential Solar Systems?
It Provides Peace Of Mind
The first benefit of solar panel monitoring is that it can provide the homeowner with a high level of reassurance. Solar power systems can represent significant financial investment, and knowing that the investment is healthy and functioning as it should provide peace of mind to the homeowner that borders on priceless.
Ensures Proper Operation Even Years After Installation
Your solar power installation is meant to last for decades following initial installation, but with conventional systems, you have no way of knowing about a dead panel unless someone physically goes up to the installation, and begins testing each and every panel’s leads.
With solar panel monitoring, the homeowner or even the installer can keep an eye on the health of the system on an ongoing basis. If a panel malfunctions or needs replacement, the exact panel can be easily found and serviced. The performance of panels can also be seen and monitored, so the entire array can be monitored for efficiency and performance as a whole.
Tracking The Power Usage Of The Home
Monitoring the panels, as well as having insight into the amount of power used and the amount of power stored, versus the amount of power generated, can give valuable insight into the power habits and requirements of the home. It can be used to forecast seasonal power usage, as well as track the cost-savings of the home since having solar installed.
Barrett Can Help Make Sure Your Solar System Works Flawlessly
Barrett specializes in finding the right solar solution for your home, and we’ll never try to sell you something that you simply don’t need. We’re ready to be your trusted local solar partner and to help you get your new solar installation working, so you can stop wasting money buying power from somewhere else. Reach out today and speak to a solar panel monitoring expert about your power needs.