Sunpower system, which is best? Opinions?

[jason121]

I believe so. The BEN Q panel requires a transformer type inverter. Eltek offer a High efficiency inverter, comes with a neat display

 

[Gavin A]

no longer an issue

 

[jason121]

no longer an issue

Have they altered the panel

 

[SibertSolar]

Jason - I could be wrong but I believe their official stance was that if you wanted to get optimum performance out of their previous Sun Forte panels, then they recommend that the +ve branch of the DC string is earthed. For this reason they dictated that you should NOT use a TL inverter when choosing to do that. However, apparently their new (not sure if available yet) modules do not need to be +ve grounded and, therefore, the use of TL inverters is not prohibited.

That's my take on it anyway, I'm sure others who are sourcing/using these BenQ modules will clarify.

 

[Gavin A]

Have they altered the panel

I assume so. As of the latest shipment, there's no need to ground positive and can use TL inverters, where the reverse applied to the previous shipments.

So check with suppliers, as some will still have old stock I'd assume.

 

[Wortle]

Just curious, which choice did you make?

I am going with the younger guys. A forum member from up north very kindly looked at both guys quotes and told me which one he would choose from the paperwork. So thank you to my "independent solar advisor",

Powerone inverter, but now you have worried me about the earthing.

 

[Worcester]

If they are the 'latest' PM096B00 modules, grounding / earthing /bonding is not necessary when using a TL inverter , subject to the PV Guide

Latest Installation instructions attached, see para 4.4 p 15 (2013 Vn 1.1)

Comply with the local regulations for earthing the modules and the PV array.

View attachment InstallationGuide_en.pdf

 

[Worcester]

Update for you... Just spent today up at Waxman's Training centre - they've got a good set up there, everything from Biomass to PV.

Main reason for update: the old and the new:

Waxman are stocking and selling the NEW BenQ panels that are OK with TL inverters.

They claim that the Sungift stocks are the OLD panels that have the earthing/grounding requirement and can;t be used with TL inverters.

 

[jason121]

I did some of my training there when Simon was teaching. Do they still have that solar thermal panel slung on the wall

 

[Worcester]

I did some of my training there when Simon was teaching. Do they still have that solar thermal panel slung on the wall

Yep!

Seems like I have to have more than six letters in my reply...

 

[jason121]

Nice pub 10min drive away where the premier inn is located

 

[Earthstore]

Yep!

Seems like I have to have more than six letters in my reply...

Yep!!!

 

[Gavin A]

Update for you... Just spent today up at Waxman's Training centre - they've got a good set up there, everything from Biomass to PV.

Main reason for update: the old and the new:

Waxman are stocking and selling the NEW BenQ panels that are OK with TL inverters.

They claim that the Sungift stocks are the OLD panels that have the earthing/grounding requirement and can;t be used with TL inverters.

cheeky gits.

It's sungift I got this info from.

 

[jason121]

Don't see a problem with the grounding, not with the ELTEK HE-T. Very good inverter.

 

[Wortle]

Hi guys,

Having a 'mare here.

Still not installed and they started Wednesday. The planets are not aligned for me!

Is a sunpower 3.6 inverter better than the powerone? The same, badged up?

Thanks