The Clark System

“With DC systems, one or two malfunctioning modules cause the whole system to be down, just like a string of Christmas tree lights. With this system [GreenRay] some shading does not bring the whole thing down.

During the winter, I get three modules on the lower left that are shaded, but my cumulative energy is still very good.”

– System Owner, Lew Clark

KEY FEATURES

Product:
   SunSine200 AC Module
System Size:
  24 Modules, 4.8 kW
Location:
  Dalton MA
Installer:
  Berkshire Photovoltaic Services

CHALLENGING SHADING CONDITIONS

Located in Dalton Massachusetts, the Clark family home sits in the thick forests of the Berkshires. Like many homeowners, the Clarks wanted a PV system to reduce their monthly electric bill, and capitalize on an environmentally friendly source of energy. The roof’s southern orientation and 30 degree pitch provide a great platform for a PV system, but shade from a large chimney regularly falls on multiple areas of the rooftop making a typical PV system impractical.

ENABLING SOLAR

GreenRay’s Sunsine200 AC Modules provide consumers an unprecedented opportunity for an effective photovoltaic system in less than perfect conditions. According to BPVS founder Chris Kilfoyle, “Given the amount of shade on this rooftop, I would not have installed any other system.” In a GreenRay system, each module produces electricity independently and one shaded or obstructed module does not bring down the entire system.

MORE POWERFUL MONITORING

With GreenRay’s Monitoring Solution, system performance can be tracked down to the module level, giving homeowners detailed insight into their PV System “I really like the idea of being able to watch what’s going on.” said system owner Lew Clark: “I’m an R&D person myself and I love being able to see the data coming in, and know what’s going on with each module.”