Step 2 - Configure your PV Array

As discussed previously, this system does not contain the battery backup pack and consequently does not need a Battery Charge controller either. This removes one of the key constraints in the design of the system i.e the DC side voltage which had to be chosen in the other systems based on available charge controllers and battery packs. This allows you to design a system with higher voltages than the other systems which in turn allows you to select smaller wires and other BOS components for your system.

Design the Series/Parallel connections of your PV Array. It is generally recommended to design the array with a DC side voltage of about 240 Volts and higher but you can choose any value from 48V and above for your system. You could choose a lower voltage but it is not recommended.

If the "Number of Panels in Parallel" is not an integer in the calculation above, you will have to use your judgment to round it to the next highest integer or change the voltage specification and/or the KW rating of the system.

The next step in the design of your Grid-Tie system is the Inverter. Availability and pricing of PV Panels can be found at my partners PV Modules section.

• Step 0: Determine the Solar Hours of your location
• Step 1: Select the size of the PV System in KW to be designed and pick a PV Module
• Step 2: Configure your PV Array
• Step 3: Select the right Inverter for your system
• Step 4: Calculate and select BOS components