In a photovoltaic system, solar panels are the most important part of the plant. However, solar energy needs to be effectively channelled with the help of other components. The components which allow the proper flow of energy from the solar panels to the grid are called the Balance of System (BoS).
What components make up the BoS?
BoS components include all the fittings and equipment apart from the photovoltaic panels. They usually make up about 10–50% of the total solar purchasing and installation cost and require high maintenance.
The following are some components included in the BoS:
- Specified cables and wires to allow proper current flow
- Sturdy mounting systems to hold the panels
- Solar inverters that invert DC to AC
- Battery banks to store and supply energy when required
- Battery chargers to send solar energy to devices or batteries
- Charge regulators to prevent high voltage
- Protection devices like fuses, earth leads, and switches
These are components that usually make up the BoS. Some additional equipment in the BoS based on the nature and requirement of the project could include:
- GPS solar trackers that keep the panels always in a position to receive maximum power from the sun
- Power management software to work on all the parts of the plant
- Wind speed sensors
- Circuit breakers to prevent electrical circuit damage
- Other task-specific accessories
Why is understanding the BoS important?
As mentioned, the BoS makes up for expenses as high as 50% of the total solar purchasing. Hence, a proper understanding of the components, the size of its requirements, and finding cost-effective ways to source these helps solar firms understand the best ways to spend to acquire the optimum BoS. Even though the price of solar panels and inverters has dropped considerably, the cost of BoS components remains steady. Customised planning ensures a cost-effective and energy-efficient BoS environment.
Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy provides top-quality BoS solutions that fit every scale of solar plants.
Originally published at http://realestateandepc.wordpress.com on February 9, 2023.
