Solar systems not only enable the use of clean and renewable energy, they also save users money and make them less dependent on electricity suppliers. But to realise their full potential, solar systems need to be controlled and managed. Intelligent energy management systems that allow consumers to literally keep an eye on production and consumption are the solution.
The start: solar systems
Before delving into the subject, it is important to understand the basics. Photovoltaic systems are the most common type of solar system. They use solar cells to convert sunlight into electricity. This process starts when the sun’s rays hit the solar cells and activate them. This creates direct current, which is then converted by an inverter into alternating current – the electricity we use in our homes. Solar systems are now available in a wide range of sizes and qualities, from roof and façade systems to smaller balcony power stations.
Solar modules and inverters are key components of any solar system. The quality of these components has a significant impact on the performance of the system. It is therefore worth investing in high quality modules and inverters in order to get the maximum energy out of the available space that can be fitted with solar modules.
Generating energy is only the first step in ensuring a positive balance for the environment and your wallet. The second step is to make the best use of the energy generated. Currently, most models allow you to either feed the electricity into the public grid and be paid for it, or use it directly in your own home, reducing your dependence on expensive grid electricity. Consumption can take place immediately after generation, or at a later date via an intermediate storage facility. In this way, even periods with little sunshine can be partially or completely bridged.
Seeing the connection
Energy management systems (EMS) are used to control and optimise storage, consumption and feed-in. These provide clear, intelligent control of the production and efficient use of solar energy. They are usually installed in the home’s meter box. An EMS ensures that the electricity generated is used as soon as it is available. If necessary, it will also store it for use when the sun is not shining. Ideally, the EMS can predict generation based on weather data and organise consumption accordingly. It is usually controlled by user-friendly applications or an online portal.The benefits of an energy management system are clear. It maximises self-consumption by matching the power requirements of smart, flexibly controllable household appliances to solar production. This reduces the need to purchase expensive grid electricity.
Installing an energy management system usually requires professional assistance. However, like the solar and storage system, it should be seen as a long-term investment that will eventually pay for itself.
Electricity in stock
There are several ways to increase your own consumption and reduce costs. The key to making the most of your own electricity is to analyse your consumption and generation – and not just by an independent EMS. Continuous access to the data itself also gives you a better overview of the whole system. An important component of energy management is the use of battery storage systems.They can be used to temporarily store excess electricity, i.e. electricity that is not used immediately, for later use. When it is cloudy or raining, the supply of self-generated electricity can be tapped. Storage options have advanced technologically in recent years and, unlike a few years ago, are now priced at a level that makes them worthwhile.
Smart Home – Smart Strom
In addition to the consumption of self-produced electricity, there is another component that, if managed intelligently, can lead to savings and reduced electricity consumption and is a central element of EMS systems: Smart Home technology. It helps to intelligently control the home and optimise energy consumption. This allows you to realise the full savings potential.Smart home devices can usually be seamlessly connected to energy management systems. This means that electricity consumption can be controlled to match solar production. A look at the weather forecast makes it possible to operate smart electrical appliances during the hours when the sun is shining. This means that self-generated electricity is used directly instead of being fed into the grid. Smart appliances that can be controlled remotely or switched on with a time delay are ideal for this. For example, you can put the breakfast dishes in the dishwasher at 7:00 a.m. and set it to start at 11:00 a.m. This ensures that the solar system has already produced enough electricity by the time the appliance is used. This app or desktop management is an immediate source of savings and seamlessly integrates the solar system into everyday life.
Making good use of surplus electricity
Surplus solar power can be used in a number of ways. One option is to feed it into the public grid – although this is usually associated with a rather unsatisfactory remuneration from the electricity supplier. An innovative use of excess energy is power-to-heat and power-to-gas. With power-to-heat, excess electricity is used to heat water, which is then used for domestic hot water or heating. With power-to-gas, surplus electricity is converted into hydrogen, which can later be used to generate electricity or as a fuel for vehicles, for example.One of the most exciting applications of solar power is electric mobility. Anyone who owns an electric vehicle can run it on electricity they produce themselves. The car battery also acts as a storage device, since the electricity does not have to be used immediately. This way of “refuelling” with electricity not only reduces costs for the operator, but also helps to reduce CO2 emissions. You produce and use your own “green” fuel.
Conclusion and outlook
Solar energy will undoubtedly play an increasingly important role in energy supply. Its contribution to climate protection is significant. The use of solar systems and intelligent energy management can not only save money, but also make a significant contribution to environmental protection. The integration of smart home technology and electric mobility opens up additional opportunities to increase the efficiency and flexibility of solar systems. The future of solar energy is bright, and your own home can be an integral part of that future.
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