Installer - Elite Home & Solar

Solar Energy

9 strategies to optimize PV installations

January 3, 2025 ryansheehanrts

1. Conduct advanced site surveys

Site surveys are critical to installation success. Beyond measuring dimensions, focus on analyzing roof conditions for hidden defects like micro-cracks in tiles or suboptimal structural elements. Use drone technology or 3D mapping tools for a precise assessment. Addressing potential issues upfront saves time on redesigns and on-the-spot problem-solving.

2. Optimize ground-level preparation

Pre-sorting components by installation phases and labeling them by functionality can reduce on-roof assembly times. Organizing components in this way ensures that installers have immediate access to the necessary tools and materials for each step, minimizing confusion and interruptions. This approach not only streamlines workflow but also helps to prevent misplacement or loss of crucial parts.

PV Europe Webinar: Mastering C&I rooftop design – from complex geometry to seamless installation, 12.02.2025, register now

3. Invest in safe and efficient roof mobility

Avoid improvisations like walking directly on roof tiles or rails, as they risk damage and potential delays. Instead, use dedicated roofing ladders or scaffolding systems to enhance mobility and reduce the chance of accidents. Some advanced rail systems, such as reinforced models, support safe point pressure, allowing selective mobility without compromising the roof’s integrity.

4. Minimize tool dependence

Select PV systems designed for streamlined assembly. For example, modular mounting systems that require only basic tools or socket adjustments can significantly improve setup efficiency. The fewer tools required, the faster and smoother the installation process.

Photonica

PV mounting solutions designed for speed and efficiency can be game-changers.

5. Maintain a strategic component reserve

Even with precise planning, unexpected issues like defective parts or overlooked components can arise. Maintaining a surplus of key materials, such as connectors or cables, ensures that projects remain on schedule without emergency procurement delays.
• Maintain a 7-10% surplus of critical components
• Implement real-time inventory tracking systems
• Develop rapid procurement protocols for specialized part

6. Implement robust cable management practices

Cable errors are among the most frequent causes of commissioning delays. Implementing color-coded and labeled cable systems ensures error-free connections and accelerates system validation. This is particularly important in complex installations with multiple strings and inverters.

7. Maintain a systematic worksite

A disorganized work environment can lead to missteps and even accidents. Regularly clear debris and ensure systematic cable routing. Research indicates that organized worksites can improve installation efficiency .

8. Leverage tailored mounting systems

Mounting solutions designed for speed and efficiency can be game-changers. For instance, the Photonica FLEX system for pitched roofs reduces the need for excessive components, allowing up to 200cm spacing between hooks while maintaining durability. Its TwistLock mechanism simplifies assembly, and integrated cable holders streamline wiring logistics—all contributing to faster project completion.

9. Adopt prefabricated electrical solutions

Prefabricated electrical switchgear eliminates the time spent building custom solutions on-site. Though slightly higher in initial cost, they save valuable time during installation and reduce error rates, providing a net positive ROI for large-scale projects.

By integrating these strategies, professional PV installers can navigate the complexities of the evolving solar energy landscape with unprecedented precision and efficiency. (Mariusz Bałachowski/hcn)

More about Photonica

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Solar Energy

Skapa Energi: “Sustainability is key to us”

September 23, 2024 ryansheehanrts

The Swedish company delivers solar energy solutions to both businesses and private individuals. “We supply our solar solutions to a diverse range of customers, including industrial, commercial, and private clients”, tells Robert Lenhov, CEO of Skapa Energi. “Our focus is primarily on industrial and commercial properties, which account for approximately 80% of our revenue. The remaining 20% comes from private customers. This distribution reflects our expertise and capacity to handle larger-scale projects, although we continue to serve private homeowners who seek sustainable energy solutions for their residences.

Watch the video on Skapa Energi here!

Operation along the coast

Skapa Energi’s operations are primarily concentrated in Western Sweden, specifically along the coastal region from Strömstad in the north to Malmö in the south. This geographic focus allows the company to deliver high-quality service and maintain close relationships with its clients.

More news about the Swedish market

However, the long-term ambition is to expand the reach and offer solar installation services nationwide across Sweden. “This expansion will enable us to bring sustainable energy solutions to a broader audience while maintaining the same level of quality and customer care,” Robert Lenhov explains.

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Components from European suppliers

Skapa Energi primarily works with European brands for its solar components, including solar modules, inverters, mounting systems, and storage batteries. The primary reason for this is the reduced climate impact associated with shorter transportation distances and better working conditions.

Sweden: Less residential – more commercial PV installations

“Sustainability is key to us and a priority throughout our supply chain. Choosing European manufacturers aligns with our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint”, Lenhov explains. “Some of the manufacturers we regularly use include REC for solar modules, Kostal and SMA for inverters, and K2 and Nordmount for mounting systems. These brands are known for their high quality, reliability, and commitment to sustainable practices.”

REC is Norwegian, Kostal, SMA and K2 from Germany, Nordmount of Swedish origin. Skapa Energi sources its components from trusted Swedish and German distributors, as these partners ensure access to high-quality products from reputable European manufacturers.

Quick respond to market demands

This approach also allows the company to respond quickly to market demands and provide its customers with the latest advancements in solar technology. “One of the main challenges we face is the high price of climate-neutral and high-quality products compared to market-leading alternatives”, concludes Robert Lenhov. “Despite the clear benefits of choosing sustainable and ethically produced components, many customers are still inclined to opt for lower-cost options. We are continually working to educate our customers about the long-term value and importance of choosing sustainable solutions, even when the upfront cost is higher.” (Carina Aspenberg)

Carina Aspenberg is PV Europe’s correspondent in Sweden.

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Solar Energy

BBK Group: High quality is the key to success

September 16, 2024 ryansheehanrts

Whether it’s installing solar panels on a single-family home or managing a complete renovation project for a housing cooperative, these values guide the approach of the Trelleborg-based company. “The strength of our company lies in our versatility. We see the big picture and truly understand our customers”, explains Daniel Ohlin, founder and CEO of BBK Group AB. We don’t view a job as just a transaction, but as the beginning of a relationship.”

Watch the video on BBK’s success story here!

The company was established in the early 2000s. After initially starting as an IT consulting firm, the company soon expanded its services to include project management and the installation of solar panels. “Our business motto is 100% satisfied customers”, says Daniel Ohlin. “We approach every assignment, large or small, with the same respect and commitment, ensuring that customers see BBK Group as a long-term and competent partner.”

Living quarter in Malmö: High quality and service were the deciding factors

The company primarily provide solar solutions and installations for quality-conscious property owners. “Many of our clients are housing cooperatives”, says the CEO, “But we also serve others, such as ICA Fastigheter, where we recently installed over 300 kW of solar power at their ICA Maxi in Lund.”

More news about the Swedish market

BBK Group operates in southern Sweden, focusing on Skåne, Blekinge, Småland, and Halland. “Historically, we have exclusively worked with REC solar cells, Kostal inverters, and BYD batteries. We chose these suppliers because they are market leaders in their segments and offer ‘the best on the market,’” explains Daniel Ohlin.

Sweden: Less residential – more commercial PV installations

The main supplier of components and products is wholesaler EWS in northern Germany, although the company also has agreements with Krannich Solar and BayWa r.e. Solar Trade. This choice is based on a long-standing and proven customer and supply chain relationship.

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Those close ties allow BBK Group to easily and quickly get direct answers, even on complex matters concerning technology and installation. “The biggest challenges in the renewable energy sector at the moment are that, during several golden years, the market was flooded with poor-quality products and equally poor, short-sighted installations by unscrupulous actors”, Daniel Ohlin analyses. “Fortunately, these have decreased in recent years for several reasons, including increased customer awareness and improved availability of higher-quality products.” (Carina Aspenberg)

Carina Aspenberg is PV Europe’s correspondent in Sweden.

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Solar Energy

Canary Islands – Solar energy for bars and restaurants on Fuerteventura

August 13, 2024 ryansheehanrts

The aim of the new installation is to provide the gastronomy located within the picturesque natural park with reliable and eco-friendly energy. The power generated is 2 x 14.85 kW, adding up to a total of 29.70 kW. In addition, the storage capacity, provided by Cegasa batteries, is 2 x 40.2 kWh, which amounts to 80.4 kWh. This setup aligns perfectly with their sustainability goals.

The installation faced significant technical challenges, primarily due to the sandy terrain which complicated access and transportation of materials. As the installation site was more than 150 metres from the nearest road, a specialist vehicle was required to transport batteries and other components. Despite these obstacles, the project team successfully overcame the challenges and successfully completed the installation on schedule. The installation of the photovoltaic systems commenced on January 2, 2024, and was completed by Solarland by January 5, 2024. This swift installation reflects meticulous planning and coordination by Solarland.

Sharp Energy Solutions Europe

NBJD 550W high-efficiency bifacial solar modules of Sharp were installed.

The photovoltaic systems offer numerous benefits, including reduced dependence on fossil fuels, a decreased carbon footprint, and the promotion of renewable energy use. These benefits align with the overarching goal of conserving the natural environment of Las Dunas de Corralejo Natural Park. The enhanced energy has noticeably decreased operational costs for the bar and restaurant. Furthermore, the project has been positively received by the public and visitors to the Natural Park. The harmonious integration of the solar power system into the natural environment and its contribution to the park’s sustainability has garnered favourable comments and recognition.

Logistical challenges

“The collaboration with Sharp Energy Solutions Europe has been exemplary. The NBJD 550Wp high-efficiency bifacial solar modules provided by Sharp were crucial to the project’s success and demonstrated exceptional reliability and performance. This project stands out due to the unique logistical challenges of installing a solar system in a remote, sandy environment, which required innovative solutions including specialist vehicles. In addition, integrating the solar system within a conservation area underscores our commitment to sustainability and environmental preservation,” explains Ghizlane Krayti from the Departamento Administración of Solarland.

Another interesting project from the Canary Islands: Innovative solar district powers itself

Solarland was established more than twenty years ago with the aim of promoting the use of solar energy in Fuerteventura and the Canary Islands and started out as an installer focusing not only on residential self-consumption systems, but also on the industrial/commercial sector, such as agricultural PV systems. (hcn)

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