Solar panels and other renewables have played a role in reshaping the world toward a sustainable future. In this blog post, Veli Markovic, Training Facilitator at Greenwood Solutions, talks about one of the best commercial mounting systems showcased in Melbourne, Victoria’s two-megawatt commercial solar project.

Veli Markovic sheds light on the meticulous preparation, cutting-edge technology, and challenges of installing the impressive facility. 

Preparation: A Crucial First Step

As Veli Markovic emphasized, preparation is crucial to any project, especially when it comes to a venture of this magnitude. Taking into account the logistics of the site was paramount in ensuring a smooth process. 

The team at Clenergy meticulously planned every aspect, including the feet and rail, which were prepared on the ground and later craned up onto the roof in large wooden crates. This careful preparation set the foundation for the seamless installation process that followed.

Panels (Trina Solar): Harnessing the Sun’s Energy

The heart of the best commercial mounting systems lies in the panels. And for this project, Clenergy opted for Trina Solar’s Tallmax panels, each boasting an impressive 450 watts. With a grand total of 4,446 panels, the system achieved a little over two megawatts of capacity. 

This decision to use high-quality and high-efficiency panels reflected Clenergy’s commitment to harnessing the maximum energy potential from the rooftop installation.

Inverters (SolarEdge): Efficient Energy Conversion

The team installed 20 SolarEdge inverters to convert DC from the solar panels into usable AC power.  

Each inverter was connected to a 160 amp AC isolator using 50 or 70 mil copper flex. From there, the power was routed to a mould case circuit breaker, also rated at 160 amps. This intelligent inverter system allowed for optimized energy production and effective management of the solar array.

DC Combiner Boxes: A Secure Connection

Even if you have the best commercial mounting systems, safety is of utmost importance in any solar installation. Clenergy addressed this aspect by using 20 DC combiner boxes housed in 316 stainless steel enclosures. 

These combiner boxes ensured a secure and efficient connection of the solar panels, while the use of 50 mil, 70 mil, and 95 mil copper flex cables minimized voltage drop, ensuring optimal performance even in challenging conditions.

Racking (PV-ezRack): Stability and Strength

The racking played a crucial role in this commercial solar project, spanning over five kilometres in total. Clenergy utilized two different forms of racking: the Clenergy tilts and the tripod system. 

The tripod system, known for its exceptional structural strength, was employed in sections of the array near the edge, where wind forces were more pronounced. Veli highlighted that in windy areas like this, every second rib of the legs was spliced to ensure maximum stability.

PV-ezRack is one of the best commercial mounting systems in the market today. 

For instance, Ivanross Gomez, Clenergy Australia Technical Manager, says one of its key features is the “plug-and-play” capability. 

PV-ezRack also boasts of the following features:

• You can install it at building heights up to 30 metres and pitch roofs up to 60 degrees.
• The tilt angle can reach as much as 60 degrees.
• Equipped with a universal mounting system, you don’t need to purchase additional materials to install one of the best commercial mounting systems on the market.
• You can install the solar system in regions with high wind speeds of up to 80 metres per second.
• The panel supports up to 2.4 by 1.2 meters. 
• It’s made from aluminium alloy (structural grade), making it immune to corrosion and rust.

Challenges: Navigating the Repetitive Nature

While this solar project showcased Clenergy’s expertise and commitment to renewable energy, it also presented unique challenges. 

The repetitive nature of specific tasks, such as cable tying of DC cables to the cable tray, demanded meticulous attention and patience. Veli acknowledged that workers involved in such tasks needed support and timely task rotations to prevent burnout and ensure efficiency.

Of course, regardless of having the best commercial mounting systems, embarking on a solar project presents other challenges, such as the following:

• Logistics and Transportation: Transporting heavy solar panels, inverters, and other equipment to remote or difficult-to-access sites can be costly and time-consuming.
• Grid Connection Challenges: Connecting large solar systems to the grid requires coordination with local utility companies and may involve upgrading existing infrastructure to accommodate the additional power supply.

• High Initial Costs: The upfront investment for a commercial solar project can be substantial, making it essential to secure financing and demonstrate long-term cost-effectiveness.
• Maintenance and Service: Ensuring proper maintenance and regular service of the solar system to maximize efficiency and lifespan requires careful planning and resources.
• Incentive Changes: Government incentives and subsidies for solar projects can change over time, affecting the project’s financial viability and ROI.

Clenergy’s product is one of the best commercial mounting systems you can find in the market. The 2MW roof mount commercial solar system in Melbourne, Victoria, stands as a testament to the potential of solar energy in powering a sustainable future. Through careful preparation, innovative technology, and a dedicated team, this project exemplifies the possibilities of large-scale solar installations. As the world continues to shift towards cleaner energy alternatives, initiatives like this will play a vital role in shaping a greener and more sustainable planet for future generations.