Case Study - Crownbridge School

Location

Croesyceiliog, Cwmbran

System Size

90 kWp

Annual Generation

77,256 kWh

Number Of Panels

180

CO2 Offset

40,095 Kg / Year

MD Electrical was tasked with providing a specific energy target to Crownbridge SEN school in Wales. Crownbridge school educates children and young people with severe learning difficulties. We were able to design and implement a tailored solar energy solution that not only met the school’s energy efficiency goals but also reduced their carbon footprint, creating a more sustainable and cost-effective environment for the students and staff.

The solar PV specified and installed was 180 x 505w JA Solar modules with SolarEdge inverters, giving the project a 90.9kWp system size. SolarEdge technology allows for real time individual panel monitoring, which is invaluable for the PV systems monitoring maintenance. To ensure our clients’ solar panels operated at their full potential, we installed SolarEdge Commercial Power Optimisers. These are devices designed to enhance the performance of solar panels in commercial installations. By attaching one optimiser to one panel, they maximise the energy output by allowing each panel to operate independently.

Key Features Of SolarEdge Commercial Optimisers:

Module-Level Maximum Power Point Tracking

Each optimizer is connected to an individual solar panel, allowing it to track and optimize the performance of that panel independently. This ensures that each panel operates at its maximum efficiency, even if others are shaded or dirty.

Safety Features

SolarEdge commercial optimizers incorporate SafeDC™ technology, which automatically reduces DC voltage to a safe level when the inverter or grid is shut down. This feature enhances safety during maintenance or in case of emergencies.

Minimizes Power Loss

With usual solar systems, the weakest panel can limit the performance of the entire string. Optimizers mitigate this issue by decoupling each panel, ensuring that shading, soiling, or malfunctions of one panel do not affect the overall energy output of the

These optimisers have introduced intended SolarEdge Sense Connect technology that monitors the connectors while the PV system is producing the energy. It detects any irregularities in PV connector temperature, and shuts the PV system off before an electric arc event can occur or connectors are damaged.

How Does SolarEdge Sense Connect Work?

Detect

Identifies imminent threat

React

Inverter switches the system to a safe mode and voltage

Notify

Monitoring Platform – Faulty connector location is visible in physical layout

SetApp – Notifies installer, including location identification