15 Things You Should Know Before Installing Solar Panels ...

This #WorldEnvironmentDay, check out our #ApnaGharSolar series, an exclusive deep dive by The Better India in collaboration with SolarSquare on India&#;s solar power boom. Stay tuned for more interesting stories, data and information!

Click here to get more.

From Noida to Gurugram and Bengaluru to Kochi, apartment buildings and rentals are becoming increasingly common across India. One of the main concerns of these apartment owners and tenants is how they would affordably and sustainably power them for an extended period of time.

Installing a solar system has emerged as the best investment for flats to reduce monthly electricity bills, and cater to the rising power demand in residential areas.

Advertisement

One of the progressive societies, the Palash Co-Operative Housing Society of Pune, stands out amid the concrete highrises in the city. It installed solar panels with a capacity of 66 kW that help light all the common spaces in the complex spanning across four acres.

Similarly, a 19-storey-high rise Bhoomi Arkade in Mumbai has installed 40 solar panels, each with a 12-kW capacity, that generate 55-60 units of electricity daily which power common lights, fans, lifts, and water pumping stations. It saves the residents a whopping Rs 2.6 lakh on power bills annually.

We sat down with Kiran Vadgama, the chairman of the Palash Society, and Harish Shakar Kate, the secretary of Bhoomi Arkade, to get an understanding of how residents of apartment complexes and rentals can harness solar energy to reduce their power bills.

Advertisement

Installing a solar system has emerged as the best investment for flats to reduce monthly electricity bills.

15 factors to consider for solar panel installation

Kiran opines that if societies harness solar energy then it would be a big boon for flat purchases and the load on the grid would be very minimal in mega cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Delhi. 

It would be cost-effective for every individual flat purchaser and tenant as well. He points out that they can accommodate this kind of infrastructure easily.

Kiran and Harish share 15 key points to consider for solar panel installation for apartments and rentals:

Advertisement

1. Firstly, look for organisations like Tata Power, Kosher, and Havells who will provide technical support and customer care services to guide and counsel you on the installation and financing of the panels.

2. Conduct shadow analysis to assess how much solar energy can be captured in a specific place by checking how objects like trees and towers affect the solar setup. It takes about 3 to 6 months to conduct shadow analysis. The installation company comes every week to check the shadow and the sunlight being received in order to finalise the panel location before the infrastructure installation.

3. A family of five living in a 2BHK can choose to install 2 kW for 100 percent dependency on solar energy. It doesn&#;t require a lot of space and is ideal for properties with space constraints. It should suffice energy requirements for using two air conditioners, five lights, and fans. The cost of solar panel installation is expected to be Rs 1 lakh and it takes between 15 to 45 days for installation.

Kiran says if societies harness solar energy, then it would be a big boon for flat purchases.

4. Usually, the life of the solar panels is 25 years. A majority of the inverters sold in India have a warranty lifespan of 5 to 6 years. You will have to replace them multiple times which would increase your cost capital tremendously. Opt for inverters with a replacement warranty of 10 years so that you only replace it once. While this would cost you an additional Rs 1 lakh, it will save you on recurring battery replacement costs.

5. Bird droppings obstruct the sunlight that solar panels require to generate power. Therefore, you must routinely remove bird droppings from your solar setup. Install transponders that will transmit the live readings to you and show which panel is not generating enough electricity. Immediately, clean the panel to avoid malfunctions.

6. Depending on the shadow analysis, you can recover the investment costs in 4-6 years from the year of solar installation. Once you get your return on investment, you&#;ll get free power.

7. Apartment owners or tenants can install solar panels on their balconies provided they receive sufficient sunlight. A person living on the second floor and 20th floor will receive different amounts of sunlight. If you have a building surrounding your view and there&#;s no sunlight, then it won&#;t be a viable option as the efficiency levels will reduce.

8. Consider the area of coverage on your balcony. If your balcony is 12-feet long, you will be able to place 3-4 panels. You also require space to keep inverters as well.

9. As an apartment owner, you can choose to install solar panels on the terrace of your apartment complex and the society cannot refuse the request, provided there is a vacant space available on the rooftop. You can move the court if the society denies your request.

Kiran suggests conducting shadow analysis to assess how much solar energy can be captured in a specific place.

10. It is to be noted that if you live on, say, the second floor of a 20-storey building, the cost of bringing the cable (wire) down from the terrace would be enormous. The add-ons could run into an additional Rs 1 lakh.

11. In this case, you can opt for balconies which can minimise the cabling cost as the whole system would be drawn to your house including the net metre. It&#;s a viable proposition for apartment owners and tenants with rental agreements for 10 or 15 years. Tenants cannot remove the setup to take it somewhere else because it will again involve paperwork and installation costs.

12. Let&#;s assume the monthly power expenses to be Rs 2,500 and the cost of installation and inverter (with a 10-year warranty) to be Rs 1.5 lakh. So, for a 15-year contract, the return on investment will be generated only after five years and residents can avail of eight years of free electricity provided the inverter lasts for say 13 years. Later on, the landlord will incur the capital cost for the new inverter.

13. Highlighting the challenges on the terrace and balconies, Harish mentions that residents will have to bear metre and wiring expenses that can go up to Rs 1 lakh. Using balconies could not be very feasible if the energy generation will be small-scale compared to the requirement. In the case of balconies, there are safety risks from extreme weather events like lightning strikes, strong winds, and cyclones that can damage the panels.

14. Kiran points out that there&#;s a lot of paperwork involved with the concerned electricity boards. For instance, the contract term with the concerned electricity provider and the subsidy. The service provider and the solar installation companies will help do the paperwork but ensure that you keep a copy of all the documents.

15. He further asks residents to consider the maths on subsequent savings. If your monthly power bill is Rs 2,500 in a 2BHK, then you will recover the cost of solar installation in 10 years (assuming rooftop cable wiring expenses in addition to inverter and installation costs totaling Rs 3 lakh). It does not make sense if the monthly bill is Rs 1,000-1,200 and tenants move out shortly after.

(Edited by Padmashree Pande; Photo credit: Adobe stock images, Bhoomi Arkade, and Palash Co-Operative Housing Society)

Plug and Play Solar: How It Works, Comparison, Purchase, and Use

Plug and Play Solar: Your Mini Solar System for Home

Why should you opt for a mini solar system?

A plug and play solar system, which is easily installed on the balcony or terrace, offers an eco-friendly and cost-saving way to utilize renewable energy. It reduces your electricity bill, makes you less dependent on energy providers, and is very easy to install. Let&#;s discover how you can efficiently set up your own plug and play solar system!

1. Introduction to Plug and Play Solar Systems

Plug and play solar systems are mini solar installations for your home.

In a time when sustainability and environmental protection are becoming increasingly important, plug and play solar systems are an attractive way to generate environmentally friendly electricity yourself. These compact systems can be easily installed on balconies, terraces, or flat roofs and offer a variety of benefits.

These systems are particularly suitable for renters.

They provide a simple and straightforward way to use renewable energy while reducing electricity costs. With a plug and play solar system, you actively contribute to reducing CO&#; emissions.

2. Benefits of Plug and Play Solar Systems

A plug and play solar system enables the simple and cost-effective use of renewable energy in your own home. It is an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint.

These systems are especially popular among renters.

The visible benefit is directly reflected in lower electricity bills. Energy generation from sunlight means long-term savings on energy costs.

Flexibility is also a major advantage. A plug and play solar system can be easily taken with you when you move and installed at your new location.

Last but not least, it offers a high degree of independence. With your own plug and play solar system, you are less dependent on traditional energy providers and their price fluctuations.

A plug and play solar system significantly contributes to the energy transition. It is a sign of commitment to a cleaner and greener future, which can inspire the entire neighborhood.

3. Choosing the Right Plug and Play Solar System

Choosing the right plug and play solar system is crucial.

First, consider the size of the solar panels. They should be dimensioned to fit the available space optimally while delivering sufficient energy. Also, pay attention to the efficiency of the modules to get the most out of your investment.

Equally important is the inverter.

The inverter is one of the most critical components of the plug and play solar system. It converts the direct current (DC) from the solar panel into alternating current (AC) used in the house and the grid. A high-quality inverter ensures that the generated electricity is effectively converted into household electricity. Models specifically designed for plug and play solar systems often offer higher efficiency and longevity.

An additional option is a storage battery for the plug and play solar system.

Such an energy storage device allows you to store excess solar energy from the day for use at night. Storage batteries for plug and play solar systems are currently trending due to favorable price developments.

Finally, warranty and customer support should also be considered. A good manufacturer not only guarantees reliable performance but also provides comprehensive support after purchase. This ensures that your plug and play solar system functions optimally for many years.

KINGSUN are exported all over the world and different industries with quality first. Our belief is to provide our customers with more and better high value-added products. Let's create a better future together.

At Zerofy, we recommend plug and play solar systems from Priwatt.

4. Installation and Assembly

The installation and assembly of a plug and play solar system are usually straightforward and quick to perform.

It is important to find a suitable location with as much sunlight as possible. Consider obstacles such as trees or buildings that could cast shadows and reduce the efficiency of the solar panels.

Thanks to detailed instructions, even someone without special knowledge can easily carry out the installation.

4.1 Step-by-Step Guide: Setup and Connection

First, identify an optimal location for the plug and play solar system to ensure maximum sunlight exposure. Avoid places shaded by trees or buildings.

Next, mount the solar panels. It is crucial to install the panels firmly and securely to guarantee stability and efficiency. Then, connect the inverter.

Did you know? A plug and play solar system can save up to 35% of your annual electricity costs.

Once all components are installed and connected, plug the system into an appropriate outlet. Make sure to use an outlet that meets the requirements. Finally, check all connections to ensure safe and efficient electricity production.

4.2 Important Safety Measures

Safety measures are essential to ensure the correct function and longevity of your plug and play solar system.

• Stable Mounting: Ensure that the solar panels are securely and firmly installed to avoid accidents.
• Electrical Safety: Verify that all electrical connections are correctly and safely installed to prevent short circuits and fires.
• Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your plug and play solar system for signs of damage or wear.

Following these safety measures minimizes the risk of accidents and maximizes the efficiency of your system.

Don&#;t forget to closely follow the manufacturer&#;s instructions and local safety regulations.

By doing so, you contribute not only to your own safety but also to the sustainability of your energy production.

5. How to Optimize Your PV Self-Consumption with Plug and Play Solar Systems?

A plug and play solar system is an excellent way to generate eco-friendly electricity and reduce electricity costs. But how can you make the best use of the generated electricity and maximize self-consumption? This is where a Home Energy Management System (HEMS) like Zerofy comes into play.

Home Energy Management System (HEMS)

A HEMS like the Zerofy app helps efficiently control and optimize energy consumption in the household. It allows the intelligent control of devices, so they operate when surplus solar power is available. This increases self-consumption and reduces dependency on the power grid.

Use of Smart Plugs

Smart Plugs can be used to turn household appliances on and off as needed. These intelligent sockets can be controlled via the HEMS, ensuring that devices such as e-bike chargers, dishwashers, or pool pumps are activated when the solar system produces the most electricity. This way, the self-generated electricity from the plug and play solar system is optimally used.

Integration of Storage Batteries

A HEMS can also optimally integrate a storage battery into the overall system. For example, the HEMS can manage the battery storage so that exactly as much electricity flows from the inverter into the house as is needed at the moment, and the rest goes into the battery. (Either with the help of a fixed threshold or a smart meter.)

Benefits of Optimization

Optimizing energy consumption through a HEMS offers several advantages:

• Increased Self-Consumption: Since there is no feed-in tariff for plug and play solar systems, it is particularly important to consume the generated electricity yourself. A HEMS helps maximize self-consumption.
• Cost Savings: Targeted use of solar power can further reduce electricity costs.
• Environmental Friendliness: Higher self-consumption means less electricity is drawn from fossil sources, further reducing the carbon footprint.

Conclusion

A plug and play solar system combined with a Home Energy Management System like Zerofy is an efficient solution to optimize energy consumption and maximize self-consumption. By using Smart Plugs and intelligently controlling household appliances, the self-generated solar power can be best utilized. This not only lowers the electricity bill but also makes a valuable contribution to climate protection.

6. Maintenance and Care

Maintenance and care are crucial aspects.

Regular checks ensure the optimal performance of the plug and play solar system. Particularly, the surface of the solar panels should be kept clean, as dirt and deposits can impair energy production. Dust, leaves, and bird droppings should therefore be gently removed with a soft cloth.

In addition to cleaning, checking the mounting is important - ensure all screws are still tight and the panels are securely anchored. This prevents major damage and failures.

7. Costs and Savings

While the acquisition of a plug and play solar system requires an initial investment, this can be significantly reduced through subsidies.

Besides subsidies, renters and homeowners can benefit from VAT exemptions.

Savings on electricity costs quickly become noticeable. Depending on the size of the system and the sunlight hours, the initial costs can be amortized within a few years.

The long-term savings are particularly advantageous: Over the lifespan of 20 to 25 years, plug and play solar systems not only generate electricity but also financial benefits. A well-thought-out and early entry into solar energy is worthwhile in many ways, both ecologically and economically.

8. Legal Regulations and Requirements

Before a plug and play solar system can be put into operation, certain legal regulations and requirements must be met. Here are the most important rules for Germany, Switzerland, and Austria:

Germany

• Registration with the Federal Network Agency: Since the Solar Package 1, approved in May , plug and play solar systems with up to 800W inverter capacity are allowed (previously 600W). Since , only one step is required for the registration of your plug and play solar system: Registration in the Market Master Data Register (MaStR) of the Federal Network Agency.
• Permits: Any necessary permits from the local authority are required, especially if structural changes are needed.
• Technical Requirements: The system must meet technical requirements, particularly regarding feed-in capacity and safety.

Switzerland

• Notification Requirement: In Switzerland, plug and play solar systems up to 600W are allowed. Plug and play solar systems must be reported to the relevant energy provider. No further approval is needed.
• Building Permit: In some cantons, a building permit is required, especially if the system is visibly installed on the facade or roof.
• Grid Connection: The system must meet the technical requirements of the grid operator and be correctly connected.

Austria

• Registration with the Grid Operator: Plug and play solar systems with up to 800 watts can be operated without a permit in Austria. The system must be registered with the grid operator.
• Permits: Depending on the federal state, additional permits may be required, especially for structural changes.
• Subsidies: Inform yourself about possible subsidies and the associated requirements to receive financial support.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I apply for subsidies for my plug and play solar system? To apply for subsidies, you must first find the appropriate subsidy program in your federal state or city.

Visit the website of the relevant authority and download the application form.

Fill out all required fields carefully and attach the necessary documents.

Are there differences in subsidies depending on the federal state?

Yes, the subsidies for plug and play solar systems can vary depending on the federal state.

For more information, please visit Balcony Solar System.