Monitoring the operation of a photovoltaic system
The main task of an app supporting photovoltaics is to continuously monitor the system’s operation. From any location, the user gains access to real-time data on the power produced.
In some apps of this type, the display includes, among other things, a breakdown by individual cells, along with a presentation of their degree of wear. Continuous data monitoring makes it possible to collect information and present historical results. They are shown to the app user in highly readable charts, which has considerable practical significance. Over time, the owner of a home photovoltaic system gains a better understanding of how it operates, learning, among other things, during which hours production is highest.
Maximum self-consumption
This knowledge allows household members to make even better use of the photovoltaic system’s potential. During periods of peak power production, it is worth increasing self-consumption so that less energy is sent to the distributor. The power produced can then be used, among other things, to charge an electric car, an electric bicycle, and devices such as smartphones.
Another way to consume the surplus is to heat domestic hot water. This function is also useful in off-grid systems, because storing energy in any battery involves some level of losses and gradually wears the battery out.
Owners of smart homes can, in turn, take the opposite approach—reducing energy consumption during periods of lower production, for example by optimizing household lighting or heating. Some photovoltaic apps support weather forecasting and use it to optimize power consumption.
Error reporting
Photovoltaic systems rarely fail, but if this happens, the app proves very useful. The user immediately receives a report on their smartphone informing them that the system is not operating correctly. This may happen, for example, when cells overheat, but also when they become obstructed, for instance by falling leaves.
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