King's Corner: AC/DC
In the world of solar roofing, the solar panels commonly output direct current (DC), which is commonly channeled to an inverter, which converts it to alternating current (AC). One company looking to eliminate wiring to a large central inverter is Akeena Solar (www.akeena.com), headquartered in Los Gatos, Calif.
In the world of solar roofing, the solar panels commonly output direct current (DC), which is commonly channeled to an inverter, which converts it to alternating current (AC). One company looking to eliminate wiring to a large central inverter is Akeena Solar (www.akeena.com), headquartered in Los Gatos, Calif.
According to Jose Tengco, Senior Manager with Akeena, the company’s newest product, Andalay AC, has a micro inverter in each panel. “Andalay AC turns each panel into an AC panel,” said Tengco. “You can use Romex and bring it right into the building. No inverter is needed. It’s a more reliable panel, a panel that maximizes performance, and one that is easier to install.”
It also has other advantages, asserted Tengco, including minimizing the effect of shadows on the system. “If a panel is shaded, the technology allows the other panels to operate at 100 percent. It reduces concerns across the roof.”
“I think that right now it’s a great time to go solar,” Tengco said. “It’s never been more affordable. With the incentives available, solar becomes a great opportunity for any homeowner.”
Akeena is forming partnerships with roofing contractors who are looking to add to their skill sets and offer solar to commercial and residential customers. For more information, visit www.akeena.com.
In the world of solar roofing, the solar panels commonly output direct current (DC), which is commonly channeled to an inverter, which converts it to alternating current (AC). One company looking to eliminate wiring to a large central inverter is Akeena Solar (www.akeena.com), headquartered in Los Gatos, Calif.
According to Jose Tengco, Senior Manager with Akeena, the company’s newest product, Andalay AC, has a micro inverter in each panel. “Andalay AC turns each panel into an AC panel,” said Tengco. “You can use Romex and bring it right into the building. No inverter is needed. It’s a more reliable panel, a panel that maximizes performance, and one that is easier to install.”
It also has other advantages, asserted Tengco, including minimizing the effect of shadows on the system. “If a panel is shaded, the technology allows the other panels to operate at 100 percent. It reduces concerns across the roof.”
“I think that right now it’s a great time to go solar,” Tengco said. “It’s never been more affordable. With the incentives available, solar becomes a great opportunity for any homeowner.”
Akeena is forming partnerships with roofing contractors who are looking to add to their skill sets and offer solar to commercial and residential customers. For more information, visit www.akeena.com.
