Finder components in a single-phase photovoltaic system

The integration of high-quality, certified components into a residential photovoltaic system with a storage battery is essential to ensure the longevity of the investment, and compliance with current regulations.

A photovoltaic system consists of:

• silicon panels that capture sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity
• an inverter that converts direct current to alternating current (AC) for residential systems
• DC-side electrical panels (for string protection) and AC-side panels (for cable and inverter protection)
• storage batteries (optional) for the energy produced
• bidirectional meters that measure the energy produced (exported) and any energy purchased (imported from the grid)

Protection

DC panels represent the first line of defence for the inverter and the module strings, while AC panels manage the interface between the inverter, the load and the grid.

Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) for protecting AC and DC panels

The use of SPDs, such as Finder’s 7P Series, specifically designed for photovoltaic systems, is required to protect the system. These devices protect the control boards, and the inverters’ sensitive electronics from any surges caused by direct or indirect lightning strikes on the strings. The range includes devices suitable for single-phase and three-phase systems and for photovoltaic systems with Ucpv up to 1500 V DC.

Important: SPDs must be selected with a maximum operating voltage higher than the strings’ open-circuit voltage to prevent false tripping or damage.

Energy Monitoring (Energy Management)

Although most modern inverters integrate monitoring systems, installing MID-certified Finder 7M Series energy meters ensures superior accuracy and independent control.

Thanks to Modbus RS485 interfaces and NFC technology, the 7M Series meters allow for reading of granular energy flows.

While energy meters enable AC metering, the use of 6M Series power analyzer products also allows for DC monitoring.

Battery storage management and high-load switching

With battery storage, intelligent and high-performance load management becomes essential to maximize energy autonomy.

Modular relays and contactors: The use of the Finder 22 Series modular contactors allows energy-intensive loads (such as heat pumps, electric water heaters, or air conditioning systems) to be activated only when there is excess energy, or when the batteries have reached a charge threshold.

Home automation

The Finder YESLY and 4box smart devices can be integrated to create scenarios based on solar production, optimizing the use of energy stored overnight.

The 4box S Series devices also offer advanced control of energy loads thanks to various functions, including load and consumption control with priority disconnection.