IoT (cell) uplink for GroWatt SPF 5000ES

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52.5% of nameplate
75% of derated expectations

Real numbers
* 1 panel destroyed by wind
* 1 panel punctured by power drill
* 3 panels binned our for very low output

Fact
* Visual appearance NOT good indicator of performance!

I have 2 panels in my back yard. One hit hard with a hammer and the other uniformly spider cracked. The Hammer-Panel outperforms the better looking panel

* Voltage - not good indicator
* Short Circuit - good binning indication

But!
Even tho they will show perfect open circuit voltage and very high short circuit current, actual mppt output is much lower. 50% - 70% of nameplate is a good rule of thumb.

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No signs of ingress damage thus far.

Survived several (many) freezes

Coatings are 20% delaminated, I would NOT spray paint my cracked panels... Not without perfect surface prep and really good materials!

... I have 18 more to go up as soon as I can finish wiring and mounting. The full array can rotate and lean to account for any questions.

Advice
* Don't buy cracked in bulk unless you must
* Bin them If you do!
* Start with cracked to make your mistakes
* Mind mounting costs
* Take more time in mounting cracked panels to maximize angle - it is pronounced difference !!

K bye

I provide video proof of any claims I make upon request and against the instruments I have. I don't sell anything, I am here only to get the uplink going.

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Pushing hard on the IoT excuse - I need something REAL to monitor, otherwise I can't get excited about it (done it before).

Although I had a lot of help getting up to this point (cheated) I did this entire phase of the job as "One Man, Locally Sourced, No Heavy Equipment"

* Carried the solar panels one at a time on the side of a golf cart
* Designed the data collection (swivel with kickstand)

Pole, pole clamp, 2x4, two hinges, kickstands.

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Increased output from 1,650W to 1800W with a dry cleaning. Got that up to 1900W going wet




Switched from 1 hinge for two panels to a fixed 2x4 and two hinges a panel



So sketch bombing up the hill 1 panel at a time in the AmpTime 100Ah cart


Bottom is a $2 clamp
Top swivels the 900W
Hinges tilt them 465W independent



Unstable without the kickstands, and kickstands get cross bracing.

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