Rooftop solar power systems (PLTS) serve as a crucial component in generating clean, sustainable energy, aligning with efforts to reduce carbon emissions and protect the environment.
Beyond environmental benefits, installing a rooftop solar system can also lead to savings on your household electricity costs.
This is made possible by the solar panels' ability to capture sunlight and convert it into electrical energy. This energy is then converted into alternating current (AC) to power the electronic appliances in your home.
This article discusses rooftop solar systems, installation regulations, and how to select the right components for your home.
What is a Rooftop Solar Power System?
A rooftop solar power system operates using a photovoltaic (PV) setup, featuring electricity-generating solar panels, installed on homes, buildings, or commercial properties. The system comprises PV modules, mounting structures, wiring, inverters, and other accessories.
Rooftop solar systems are smaller in scale compared to ground-mounted solar farms. Most rooftop systems are grid-connected photovoltaic systems.
Residential PV systems typically range from 5 to 20 kW in capacity, whereas commercial systems range from 100 kW to 1 MW. These figures may vary depending on your specific electricity needs.
Rooftop Solar Installation in Indonesia: Ministry of ESDM Regulation No. 2 of 2024
Indonesia regulates rooftop solar installations through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Regulation No. 2 of 2024. This regulation governs rooftop solar systems connected to the electricity grids of holders of Public Electricity Supply Business Licenses (IUPTLU).
One key provision is the elimination of the electricity export-import scheme between consumers and PLN (the state electricity company). Electricity generated by rooftop solar systems is restricted to self-consumption.
The removal of the export-import mechanism means you will not receive compensation, such as a reduction in your electricity bill, for feeding surplus electricity back into the PLN grid. The reason behind the policy's removal is that PLN is experiencing an oversupply of electricity, particularly in the Java region.
How Do Rooftop Solar Power Systems Work?
To generate electricity, rooftop solar power systems capture sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity using solar panels.
These panels are typically made of silicon or semiconductor materials mounted on a metal frame with a glass casing. When exposed to photons from sunlight, the material releases electrons, thereby generating an electric charge.
The DC electricity is then converted into alternating current (AC) electricity via an inverter.
The AC electricity passes through an AC combiner before being distributed to your home's electrical grid and electricity meter. An energy meter then regulates the flow and measures daily energy consumption.
Once monitored, the electricity is distributed to electronic components throughout the building.
Why Install a Rooftop Solar Power System?
Installing a rooftop solar power system offers various benefits to the user.
*a. Save on monthly electricity bills
Electricity is often one of the largest household expenses. We often overlook this cost until the bill arrives and we notice a price increase. However, imagine saving money on electricity by generating your own power.
Rooftop solar systems allow you to generate electricity independently. By utilizing solar power, you reduce your reliance on conventional electricity supplies, thereby indirectly giving you greater financial control.
*b. Build a positive environmental image
Sunlight is an emission-free energy source; it produces no greenhouse gases and does not harm water sources.
Using a rooftop solar system enhances your home's eco-friendly image. From a business perspective, it can increase the property's resale value by positioning it as an emission-free home. Also, it can be used as a CSR initiative.
***c. Can be installed anywhere
Rooftop solar panels are versatile in terms of placement; they can be installed on the roofs of both residential homes and commercial buildings. Naturally, greater height helps the panels access sunlight.
While the system is highly flexible, you should also consider the size of your roof, as this can influence the specifications of the rooftop solar power system (PLTS) to be installed.
How Do You Choose a Type for Rooftop Solar Power System?
Selecting a rooftop solar power system involves more than just a simple purchase. Before looking at products, you need to determine your daily electricity consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh).
To obtain the necessary calculations, follow the steps outlined below.
a. Energy Needs Audit
Calculate the wattage required to operate your appliances and electronic devices. The easiest way to do this is by checking the product packaging, where this information is usually listed or by converting voltage (volts) and current (amperes) into watts.
*b. Calculate Wattage
After conducting an audit, calculate the wattage of all appliances in your home. This total wattage will be a key factor when selecting a generator for your rooftop solar power system.
*c. Determine the Initial Wattage Requirement Factor
Identify the appliance with the highest starting power (surge wattage). Then, add this figure to the total running wattage.
*d. Calculate the Grand Total
Once you have all the necessary variables, calculate the overall figure representing the total initial wattage required from the generator. This step ensures you avoid overloading the generator.
Calculate the total wattage requirements for a Batari Energy rooftop solar system. Installing a rooftop solar system involves solar panels, an inverter, a generator, and various accessories mounted on the roof. However, that is only the easy part.
**Batari Energy Provide Rooftop Solar Power Systems (PV)
The good news is, if you are interested in installing solar power systems, wether for your house or business. Batari Energy can provide rooftop solar power systems installation across region in Indonesia.
Do you want to install rooftop solar power system? Click this link for further inquiry.