[RE-wrenches] Request for Enphase inverter comments

[R. Walters]

Actually The other advantages I can see, are:
1) much simpler sizing of arrays. You want 5 modules, you put up 5,  
you want to add 3 latter, you can do that.
You could actually do a 1 module system, that the customer could add  
to as they had finances.
2) at least for small systems, the cost advantage is impressive.
3) Increased installation time? You run AC wiring right to the AC  
disconnect from the roof. You still have to comply with 690.31E,  
(steel conduit to the disconnect is required for both DC or inverter  
output to the first readily accessible disconnect)) but you only need  
a single AC disconnect. No combiner box, No accessible DC disconnect.
I believe the issue of the DC disconnect is resolved by the MC  
connector. 690.14D does not require load break rating etc for this  
disco. Merely must be within site of or IN the inverter.
I haven't tried the Enphase yet, but once I started a couple of  
designs based on them, the advantages became more apparent.
The code actually seems to have been proactive on this issue: see  
690.14 D which specifically allows the inverter to be on the roof in  
an inaccessible location.


Ray Walters

On Oct 24, 2008, at 10:04 AM, Orion Thornton wrote:

> The only advantages I see with the Enphase inverters are decreased  
> effects
> of shading and the ability to monitor each module.  Other than  
> that, I would
> anticipate increased installation time and obvious difficulties  
> servicing
> the inverters.
>
> Orion Thornton
> Independent Power Systems
> NABCEP Certified PV Installer
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org
> [mailto:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of  
> Wind-sun.com
> Sent: Friday, October 24, 2008 9:33 AM
> To: RE-wrenches
> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Request for Enphase inverter comments
>
> Another problem that is even more basic is the 175 watt limitation,  
> when so
> many popular panels are now in the 180 to 220 watt range, and  
> getting larger
>
> all the time.
>
> ...................................................................... 
> ......
> ......................
> Northern Arizona Wind & Sun - Electricity From The Sun
> ...................................................................... 
> ......
> ......................
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Eric Andrews" <eric at ecosolarnow.com>
> To: "'RE-wrenches'" <re-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org>
> Sent: Friday, October 24, 2008 8:27 AM
> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Request for Enphase inverter comments
>
>
>> Our AHJ has a list of reasons that shoot down even the thought of  
>> using
>> Enphase... including, his requirement for AC and DC discos on each
>> inverter...
>>
>> Eric R. Andrews
>> NABCEP Certified PV Installer
>> Eco Solar, Inc.
>> Klamath Falls, OR 97601
>>
>>
>>
>> Hi Gang,
>>
>> For the number of ads I've seen for the product, I am surprised  
>> that there
>> has been no discussion of the benefits/disadvantages of this micro
>> inverter
>> product.
>>
>> TIA,
>> Bill Loesch
>> Solar 1 - Saint Louis Solar
>> 314 631 1094
>>
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R. Walters
Solarray.com
NABCEP # 04170442	



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