Reasons for restrictions on photovoltaic panel exports

What is a solar PV export limitation?

When in the planning and design stages of a solar PV project, you may come across the term export limitation. Essentially the process involves fitting a device to cap exported power going from the solar system to the grid. But why would you want or need one? Read on to find out... What is export limitation?

What is solar export control?

In essence, solar export control refers to the amount of solar power you can send to the grid from a grid-connected solar installation. These limits can apply to any size of solar installation, from utility-scale projects to solar panels on private residences. Suppose a solar plant produces more electricity than can be supplied to the grid.

Does a solar export control device need to be included?

The network may also stipulate that a solar export control device is included in any plans before new installations are approved. However, the inclusion of this tech often results in automatic approval. There are three main types of solar export control that are currently used. Let’s look at each in turn.

What if a PV system exports too much power?

This is the maximum amount of power the system is allowed to export onto the grid. If the balance between PV generation and self-consumption reaches a point where the system might export more than this value, then the Cluster Controller or Sunny Home Manager can tell the inverters to limit their production.

What are the pros and cons of solar export limits?

Now, let’s look at some of the pros and cons of solar export limits. Allows for the installation of larger systems, particularly consumer systems — If there is an export limiter in place, you can often install a larger system without fear of over-exporting to the grid.

Why is the supply chain of PV solar panels at risk?

Supply chain of PV solar panels is at risks due to trade barriers and shortage of raw material. China controls the supply of materials, manufacturing, installations, and recycling capacity. Recycling high-value materials from end-of-life PV panels is not a practical solution.