Solar Monitoring Solutions
Energy Monitoring
Finally, in recent years we have seen the emergence of energy monitoring units. Most inverter company’s have their own monitoring systems now, so we would recommend the one that matches your system. However, there are also now great, affordable after market ones available. Ask us for more information, and about one that will suit you.
This is a great way to see how, where and when you are using your power, but also you keep an eye on your generation.
The Clean Energy Council reports: “By installing a renewable energy system you will be aiding in the fight to stop, and reverse, the effects of climate change.” According to http://www.environment.gov.au/climate-change just 1kW solar power equals a saving of 1-4 tonnes of greenhouse gasses per year.
For many people, solar technology is new and may seem a little daunting. Solar Integrity, however, is here to help and offer you advice throughout the process… from information gathering, to advice on how to get the maximum benefit from your investment, and there are many things that will help you do this.
Mondo UBI
UBI monitoring is a cloud-based monitoring and management platform that provides real-time insights into the performance and health of your critical infrastructure.
It offers a comprehensive set of features, including monitoring, analytics, and reporting. UBI monitoring can be used to monitor a wide range of infrastructure, including servers, networks, applications, and IoT devices.
The platform’s strength lies in its comprehensive suite of features. With advanced monitoring capabilities, it continuously tracks system metrics, alerting users to any anomalies that could indicate potential issues. The analytics function dive deep into the data, identifying trends and patterns that can inform strategic decisions to enhance efficiencies.
There will be features added to the UBI devices as it evolves, including the capability to hold state of charge in your battery in times of need ie severe weather forecasts.
Solar Analytics
Solar Analytics is a cloud-based monitoring and analysis platform that provides insights into the performance of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.
It is superior to the monitoring functions of many string inverters, as it offers many additional features. It provides real-time data on solar production and energy consumption, allowing for immediate insights into your system’s performance. This means any discrepancies or inefficiencies are quickly identified, enabling prompt resolution.
Secondly, the software empowers users with detailed reports on system health, ensuring that any potential issues can be preemptively addressed before they escalate into costly repairs. The predictive maintenance aspect of the software can significantly extend the life of your solar investment.
The software also integrates weather forecasts, which helps in anticipating and planning for energy production fluctuations. This forecasting can be crucial for maximising the use of solar energy and reducing reliance on the grid.
It has other features such as Plan Optimiser, which compares all the electricity plans in your region, looks at your actual consumption and generation data and then makes recommendation as to the best energy plan for you. Average annual savings for consumers achieved by this feature alone average $400.
In essence, Solar Analytics Monitoring software provides a comprehensive toolset for maximising solar energy efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring the longevity of your solar system, making it a smart addition for any solar energy user.
FAQs
How can I see what my solar production is?
A crucial aspect of managing a solar energy system is effectively monitoring its production to ensure peak performance and efficiency.
Regular monitoring ensures the efficient operation of your solar PV system. It provides valuable insights into your overall energy consumption patterns, enabling you to make informed decisions that enhance the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of your solar investment.
With the majority of today’s inverters you receive free system production monitoring via their app/portals.
This is set up after your installation has taken place or at time of installation. You can also upgrade to include consumption monitoring so you can see how much power you are using.
This is how you can get the full picture to your energy usage and can play around with getting the best out of your solar system. It can also help you plan when a battery might be suited.
Monitoring via your inverter solution
The heart of your solar power system is the inverter, responsible for converting sunlight into usable electricity. Many modern inverters boast built-in monitoring systems that provide real-time data on your solar production.
Accessing the inverter’s online portal or mobile app can view crucial metrics such as daily energy generation, historical data, and even system health diagnostics
Special energy monitoring apps
A diverse range of energy monitoring apps both from inverter manufacturers and third party providers can put all you solar system output details at your fingertips.
These apps often provide a user-friendly interface that displays detailed information about your solar production. Popular options Fronius and SolarEdge monitoring apps.
Connecting your solar system to the app lets you conveniently track your energy generation from your smartphone or computer.
Exploring smart software online monitoring platforms
There is also specialist monitoring software from companies like Mondo and Solar Analytics. These products enable you to check your solar production remotely.
These platforms offer a comprehensive overview of your system’s performance, including daily, weekly, and monthly production charts. They may also provide additional features, such as email alerts for potential issues, ensuring you stay well-informed about your solar investment.
For example, you can work out the best time when to turn electric hot water/heat pump systems, or water pumps on and off. For this we choose to use the Mondo UBI or Solar Analytics, depending on your needs.
These options are also great for people with older solar systems that didn’t have monitoring. The Mondo UBI also has a connection to other UBI’s in your town so you can see the statistics as to how your town is performing as a collective.
Don’t worry no one can see your individual data. This is how it comes up:
Empowering yourself with smart energy meters
Integrating a smart energy meter into your solar system introduces an additional layer of visibility into your energy consumption and production.
Smart meters provide detailed insights into how much energy your household is using and how much is being generated by your solar panels.
By analysing this data, you can make informed decisions to optimise your energy usage and potentially further reduce your electricity bills. Much of the Solar Analytics data is harvested from Smart meters to guide you in your energy consumption to achieve maximum savings.
Grasping production via local monitoring displays
Some solar systems come equipped with local monitoring displays that can be installed conveniently within your home. These displays provide real-time information about your solar production, allowing you to see how much energy your system is currently generating at a glance.
This can be particularly useful for those who prefer hands-on solar power monitoring, or businesses wanting to communicate the production of their roof top solar system to their staff or community.
In summary
Keeping a watchful eye on your solar production is essential for maximising the benefits of your solar energy system. Whether through inverter monitoring systems, third-party apps, online platforms, smart meters, or local displays, the readily available tools empower homeowners to take control of their energy production and usage.
