Where should string inverters be housed on commercial rooftop solar projects?

The ideal place to house string inverters on commercial rooftop solar projects is indoors in a climate-controlled, locked room — but that’s not always feasible. When ground-level mounting options are scarce, installers often put these fragile power electronics on the rooftop alongside the array.

Can a solar PV system be installed on a factory roof?

As factories are energy-intensive buildings, installing a solar PV system on the roof of a factory ensures free power can be generated to run everything underneath it. While reducing energy costs, a solar PV installation has the added benefit of demonstrating Corporate Social Responsibility thanks to its environmental credentials.

Can solar inverters be installed on a roof?

PVCA repaired these rooftop inverters damaged by heat. Luke Pollinger, president of California-based solar O&M company PVCA, said he understands it’s often easier for installers to mount inverters on the roof since the equipment has increased in voltage and decreased in weight over the years.

Are rooftop inverters outdoor rated?

A rooftop inverter mounting project by Standard Solar. “The majority of [inverters] are outdoor-rated. They’ve got pretty wide temperature operating windows, but I still think that electronics perform better in modified, easier temperatures,” Greenfield said.

Does standard solar install inverters?

Maryland-based Standard Solar mostly finances and installs ground-mounted projects but does some commercial rooftops. On its rooftop installs, the company almost always installs inverters on the rooftop for a few reasons.

Do rooftop inverters need to be replaced?

The real problems arise when rooftop inverters need to be replaced. Although commercial-scale string inverters are getting lighter and lighter, they are still typically too heavy for a person to carry. Third Sun Solar installs more than half of its jobs on commercial rooftops.