Lesson 1
Optimizers and other MLPEs
Installing Optimizers and other MLPEs with Solar on Metal Roofs
Optimizers and other module-level power electronics are becoming increasingly common in solar installations, including residential and small-scale commercial projects. Optimizers, in particular, enhance the efficiency and energy output of individual solar modules by monitoring and conditioning the power from each module. However, an optimizer adds an extra component to a PV system, necessitating a careful review and planning of logistics, installation and economic factors to successfully integrate optimizers into a solar installation. Installation methods are a significant consideration, and as new methods are developed, newly trained personnel must hit the “roof” running. This virtual presentation features an open discussion by S-5! solar experts on the topic of MLPEs, with a specific focus on optimizers. The discussion will cover optimizer functionality, their pros and cons, as well as practical insights and advice on how to install them in a metal roof solar project.
Lesson Objectives
- What optimizers do and what the advantages and disadvantages of optimizers.
- Details and best practices for installing optimizers on metal roofs.
- Differences and impact of choosing 2-for-1 optimizers.
Mark Gies
Mark joined S-5! in 2019 and is responsible for the business development of S-5!’s solar product line along with managing a number of distributor, EPC and solar installer accounts. In addition, he provides leadership and support to product management and new product development initiatives.
He is an out-of-the-box thinker who is passionate about renewable energy, especially solar energy, and enjoys bringing new and innovative ideas to the table. He is also passionate about doing his part to evolve the solar industry through involvement in numerous industry-wide committees and events.
Mark has an extraordinary ability to understand complex issues and translate them into laymen’s terms. He especially enjoys troubleshooting and problem solving, from helping customers tackle technical hurdles to developing new products that solve problems in the marketplace. When he is not at work, Mark enjoys outdoor sports including alpine skiing, backcountry skiing, mountain biking and hiking.
Dustin Haddock
He is passionate about his R&D team, brainstorming new ideas together and making products more user friendly. He has collaborated and led many efforts in standards and codes development in the fields of metal roofing, roofing attachments and racking and mounting systems with the ICC, UL, Intertek and universities/institutes such as the University of Adelaide and the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. In addition, he holds more than 10 patents with another 25 patents pending.