Greetings Solar Enthusiasts!
I’m here with some electrifying news that’s making the rounds in the solar spectrum. Some of you may already be aware that increasing numbers of states are requiring smart inverters for distributed solar and storage. You might be wondering how this impacts you, especially if you’re interested in exploring solar panels for your home. I’m here to break it all down for you.
Let’s start with the basics. For those who are unfamiliar, solar inverters play a crucial role in your solar array for home. They convert the direct current (DC) output of a solar panel into an alternating current (AC) that can be fed into a commercial electrical grid, enabling you to benefit from your solar power system.
Now, what exactly does it mean when we talk about “smart inverters?” These are simply regular inverters taken up a notch. Not only do they perform the basic function of converting DC to AC, but they’re also packed with extra features that can help regulate voltage.
Why is voltage regulation important? In the context of solar companies and solar installations, voltage regulation is key to ensuring that more solar power systems can be installed on each circuit without needing to be supplemented with extra voltage regulation hardware. This smart inverter standard is known as IEEE 1547-2018.
Right now, eight states in the US, certain utilities, and Puerto Rico have embraced the requirement for smart inverters. This includes Pennsylvania and Minnesota, the most recent states to adopt this standard. Even Puerto Rico, known for leading the nation last year in residential solar installations per capita, adopted this standard.
In other regions like Hawaii, which had already reached significant levels of solar installations by 2021, smart inverters have made it possible for most customers to instantly connect new solar systems. States like California have also seen considerable success with smart inverters.
But the movement doesn’t stop there! Regulators in Colorado, Texas, Wisconsin, Illinois, Ohio, and New Jersey are also poised to jump on the smart inverter bandwagon. This exciting trend is being seen across a diverse range of utilities throughout 11 states.
These mechanical marvels are changing the game for solar companies and the way we approach solar installations. Whether you’re someone interested in engaging a solar company or you’re looking into potential solar panels for your home, the adoption of smart inverters is paving the way for smoother, more efficient solar arrays for home.
Remember, solar is not just an investment for the environment, it’s an investment for the future. So, stay illuminated, stay inspired, and I’ll catch you at the next solar update.
Stay sunny!
Original Articlehttps://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/06/10/more-states-now-require-smart-inverters-enabling-more-distributed-solar/
