Typically, the energy generated by a homeowner’s PV system does not match energy usage. As such, the UK has relied on rate structures, such as feed-in tariffs, to deal with the excess energy produced. But, with the decline of these subsidies in the UK, system owners need to find a way to move past incentive structures and head towards using more of their solar energy in order to maximize their investment. Behind-the-meter technology, such as smart inverters and storage, can offer new and more efficient paths for future power consumption, and can place more control over energy usage in the hands of system owners. Adding a battery to a PV system allows energy generated during the day to be stored for consumption during the evening when energy usage is high. While, of course, the quality of the battery is important, the inverter is responsible for its functionality. In a PV-plus-storage system, the inverter controls when the PV energy is used to power loads, stored in a battery, or exported to the grid. It also controls when the battery is charged, idle, or discharged to generate the maximum economic return.
Solar Trade Association 23rd May 2018 read more »
