At SolarTherm UK, we know maximising your solar generation is key to saving you money on your energy bills. DC power optimisers such as Tigo and SolarEdge offer solutions that improve solar output, even when your system isn’t in perfect conditions, such as partly shaded location or mismatched solar panels after an upgrade. But what exactly does this mean?
System optimisation ensures your panels generate maximum power possible, even if some are shaded, oriented differently or your panels are aging unevenly. DC power optimisers give you more design flexibility and are a cost-effective way to boost your solar PV system’s performance and efficiency.
In this guide we’ll break down the pros and cons of Tigo and SolarEdge optimisers, helping you to make an informed decision on which solution works best for your energy needs.
Why Install a DC Power Optimiser?
When a mismatched panel produces less power than others in the string, it can drag down the performance of the entire system. Manufacturing differences, shading, different orientations and uneven degradation are all causes of issues within a solar PV system that can affect generation.
Power optimisers resolve these issues by allowing each panel to work independently of one another, operating at its maximum generation potential despite what other panels are producing.
SolarEdge Optimisers
A SolarEdge system combines SolarEdge optimisers, a SolarEdge inverter and SolarEdge monitoring. Each panel connects to an optimiser, so each module performs at its best.
A SolarEdge inverter converts DC power from your panels into AC power for your home. Unlike other string inverters, it is highly efficient, up to 99% and reduces energy loss by 33-50% compared to a standard system. The SolarEdge inverter splits the conversion process into two – a DC to AC inverter mounted on your wall with a user interface and communications storage and MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) and DC to DC components on the roof for panel-level optimisation, allowing each panel to produce maximum energy, even when experiencing shading or facing different directions.
SolarEdge monitoring allows you to see real-time data, giving you the opportunity to monitor each panel for efficiency, production and control over your smart devices – helping you make the most of your solar investment.
Tigo Optimisers
Unlike SolarEdge, Tigo optimisers work with any inverter, giving you flexibility, for example if you notice after installation some panels are experiencing unexpected shading. Their TS4 optimisation technology operates independently from your solar inverter.
Each panel is connected to a small optimiser box, which then feeds into your standard inverter. Tigo uses impedance matching to give power two paths – through the panel or bypassing a shaded module. This maximises the array’s output even if some panels are underperforming.
Tigo also uses Predictive IV technology, which calculates the optimal settings for each connected panel. Unlike SolarEdge, Tigo only requires optimisers on panels affected by shading, making it more cost-effective.
Tigo monitoring allows you to track system performance at the module level via Tigo’s Cloud Connect Kit and Access Point, providing insight into your systems energy production.
Comparing Tigo and SolarEdge
While both Tigo and SolarEdge operate in similar ways, there are some things that Tigo does better and others that SolarEdge excels in. Both offer module level MPPT, allowing you to overcome performance issues with panels affected by shading or multiple orientation installs. While the SolarEdge system needs every panel to be optimised, Tigo allows you to optimise only those panels affected by shading, making Tigo more cost-effective. Tigo can also be installed alongside your existing solar inverter, preventing the need to replace equipment that may not need replacing.
SolarEdge is a more complex system which is ready for integration with your EV charger, smart house devices and energy storage solutions. The monitoring app comes as standard with no charge, while Tigo charge a subscription for premium monitoring.
Both systems provide safe, high-quality DC optimisation. Tigo is simple, flexible and cost-effective, most suited for systems that need upgrading after installation. SolarEdge is a complete, robust solution, perfect for those who are more technologically inclined and want full integration within their smart home.
Ready to Optimise Your Solar PV System?
If you’re considering Tigo or SolarEdge optimisers for your solar project, the SolarTherm UK team can help. Contact us today for a free bespoke quote and design, perfect for your home, energy use and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
