Are you thinking of upgrading your solar power system to a bigger one? If you are, you might have some questions and concerns. How do you know if you need a bigger system? How do you upgrade your solar power system? And what are the challenges and risks of upgrading?
This blog post will answer all these questions and more. By the end of this blog post, you will have a very in-depth understanding of how to upgrade to a bigger solar power system. So, let's get started.
Why Upgrade Your Solar Power System?
There are many reasons why you might want to upgrade your solar power system to a bigger one. Some of the most common ones are:
Increased your electricity consumption
If you have added more appliances or devices to your home or office, such as air conditioners, heaters, electric vehicles, or computers, you might find that your current solar power system is not enough to meet your energy needs. You might be drawing more power from the grid, which means higher electricity bills and lower savings. Upgrading your solar power system can help you generate more electricity from the sun and reduce your dependence on the grid.
Take advantage of the feed-in tariff
A feed-in tariff is a scheme that pays you for the excess electricity that you export to the grid from your solar power system. Depending on your location and utility company, you might be eligible for a generous feed-in tariff that can help you earn money from your solar power system. Upgrading your solar power system can help you produce more excess electricity and increase your income from the feed-in tariff.
Add battery storage
A battery storage system is a device that stores the excess electricity that your solar power system generates during the day and allows you to use it at night or during power outages. A battery storage system can help you maximise your self-consumption of solar electricity, reduce your reliance on the grid, and protect you from blackouts. Upgrading your solar power system can help you add a battery storage system that matches your energy needs and preferences.
Improve your system's performance and efficiency
Solar technology is constantly evolving and improving, which means that newer solar panels and inverters are more efficient, durable, and reliable than older ones. Upgrading your solar power system can help you replace your outdated or faulty components with newer and better ones that can boost your system's performance and efficiency.
How to Upgrade Your Solar Power System? A step-by-Step Guide
Upgrading your solar power system to a bigger one is not as simple as adding more panels to your existing system. There are many factors and steps involved in the process, such as:
Assessing your current system and future needs
Before you decide to upgrade your system, you need to evaluate your current system and its performance, as well as your future electricity needs and goals. You need to consider how much electricity you use, when you use it, and how much you want to generate from your solar power system. You also need to check your current system’s capacity, condition, and warranty to see if it can accommodate an upgrade or if it needs to be replaced entirely.
Choosing the right upgrade option and equipment
You need to choose the best upgrade option and equipment for your system. You need to decide if you want to add more panels, a battery, or both, and how much additional capacity you need. You also need to select the right panels, batteries, inverters, and other components that are compatible with your existing system and meet your quality and performance standards.
Getting the necessary permits and approvals
Before you proceed with the installation, you need to get the necessary permits and approvals from your local authorities and utility company. You need to follow the building codes, electrical codes, and fire codes that apply to your solar power system and ensure that your system meets the safety and technical requirements of your utility company. You also need to apply for any schemes that you are eligible for, such as grants, tax credits, or net metering.
Hiring a qualified and experienced installer
Upgrading your solar power system is not a DIY project. You need to hire a qualified and experienced installer who can handle the installation safely and professionally. You need to find a reputable and reliable installer who has the necessary licences, certifications, and insurance and who can offer you a competitive price, a comprehensive warranty, and high-quality service.
Installing your upgraded system
Once you have everything ready, you can proceed with the installation of your upgraded system. Your installer will install the new equipment and connect it to your existing system, following the best practices and standards. Your installer will also test your system, ensuring that it is working properly and efficiently. Your installer will also provide you with the documentation and instructions for your system and teach you how to operate and maintain it.
What are the Challenges and Risks of Upgrading to a Bigger Solar Power System?
Upgrading your solar power system to a bigger one can also pose some challenges and risks, such as:
Higher upfront costs
This can be a significant investment, depending on the size and type of your upgrade. You might need to pay for new equipment, installation, permits, and fees, which can add up to thousands of euros. You need to weigh the upfront cost against the long-term savings and benefits of your upgrade and see if it makes financial sense for you.
Limited roof space
Upgrading your system might require more roof space and a suitable orientation for your new panels. You might not have enough roof space or a suitable roof angle or direction to accommodate more panels, or you might have difficulties such as chimneys, vents, or skylights that limit your roof space. You might need to consider alternative mounting options, such as ground-mounted or wall-mounted panels, or use higher-efficiency panels that can generate more power from less space.
Potential shading issues
This will also introduce shading issues that can affect your system’s performance and output. Shading occurs when an object blocks the sunlight from reaching your panels, reducing their power generation. These issues can reduce the overall efficiency and output of your system.
Possible warranty and insurance complications
It might also complicate your warranty and insurance coverage, as you might have different warranties and policies for your old and new equipment, or you might need to update your existing ones. You need to check your warranty and insurance terms and conditions, and see if they cover your upgrade. You also need to keep your records of your upgrade, and report any changes or issues to your warranty and insurance providers.
Conclusion
To sum up, upgrading your solar power system to a bigger one is a smart move if you're using more electricity or want to save more on bills. It involves checking your current system, deciding what new parts you need, and getting the right permissions. A good installer can help with this. Although it costs more at first, you'll save more in the long run. Remember, for a successful upgrade, partnering with a professional service provider like Build Tech is key.
They can provide expert guidance and high-quality service, ensuring your solar power system upgrade meets your needs and maximises your investment.
So, if you have decided to upgrade to a bugger solar power system, get detailed support and custom solutions with Build Tech for your solar power system upgrade needs.
