The increasing number of photovoltaic (PV) solar panel installations at small-to-medium-sized businesses raises the question of how to monitor the energy efficiency of the PV system. Delta OHM has launched the LPPYRA-Lite pyranometer which is specifically designed to monitor general solar radiation on small-scale PV installations.
“With PV panels being installed at smaller retail and commercial operations it would make sense to track the efficiency levels. The compact LPPYRA-Lite integrated in a Delta OHM HD35 wireless data logger will give you the ability to monitor the efficiencies of your small-scale PV system with what is the most cost-effective device available on the market” says Jan Grobler, the managing director of GHM Messtechnik South Africa.
LPPYRA-Lite is a small and light pyranometer based on an accurate thermopile sensor for ordinary monitoring of smaller PV systems. Its exceptionally compact dimensions make for an easy installation and integration into any application.
Being classified as Class C Spectrally Flat according to ISO 9060:2018 guarantees the accuracy, reliability and precision of its measurements and its compliance with the reference standards. Each sensor is characterised by its own calibration factor which is indicated on the body of the pyranometer.
Designed for direct tilted installation on a PV panel plane, it does not require any levelling device. For horizontal positioning an optional fixing base with an integrated levelling device can be supplied.
Two versions are available the LPPYRA-Lite: μV/Wm2 with an impedance of 33 to 45 Ω and the LPPYRA-Lite AC: 2-wire (current loop) with 4 to 20 mA (RL ≤500 Ω).
The measurement range of the of the LPPYRA Lite is 0 to 2000 W/m2 and gives a viewing angle of 2πsr. Weighing 146 grams, its connection has a 4-pole M12 connector. LPPYRA-Lite passive version requires no power whilst the LPPYRA-Lite AC requires 10 to 30 VDC.
“Small scale PV plants can be seen everywhere, on parking and building roofs at retail and business parks. Industrial and engineering factories are also installing solar panels around selected parts of their premises. The investment for the establishment of a PV solar panel plant and the subsequent installation and maintenance is not insignificant, so the efficiencies and benefits achieved through accurate monitoring of the PV panel installations is the big plus of the LPPYRA-Lite technology. It is the most accurate and cost-effective technology available” concluded Grobler.
Contact Jan Grobler, Messtechnik South Africa, Phone 011 902-0158, info@ghm-sa.co.za
