Solar Panel Installation

How Solar Panel Installation Works

Solar panel installation is the process of mounting photovoltaic modules on your roof or ground structure, connecting them to an inverter, and integrating the system with your building's electrical supply. The goal is to convert sunlight into usable electricity that reduces or eliminates your dependence on the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) grid.

We install two main types of photovoltaic modules: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Monocrystalline panels use single-crystal silicon cells that achieve higher efficiency, typically 20% to 22%, making them ideal for properties with limited roof space. Polycrystalline panels use multiple silicon fragments melted together, offering slightly lower efficiency at 17% to 19% but at a lower cost per watt. For most Thai homes, we recommend monocrystalline panels due to their superior performance in high temperatures and smaller footprint.

Each solar cell within a module generates approximately 0.5 volts DC. Multiple cells wired in series create the panel's rated voltage, while parallel strings increase current capacity. A typical residential system strings 10 to 20 panels in series, producing 400 to 600 volts DC that feeds into a grid-tie or hybrid inverter. The inverter converts this DC power to 220V AC at 50Hz, matching Thailand's electrical standards, and synchronises with the grid for seamless net metering.

Panel Types We Install

Why Proper Installation Matters in Thailand

Thailand's tropical climate demands installation practices that differ from temperate countries. Ambient temperatures of 30 to 40 degrees Celsius cause solar panels to operate at 50 to 65 degrees Celsius on the cell surface. At these temperatures, standard panels lose 10% to 15% of their rated output due to the negative temperature coefficient of silicon. We account for this thermal derating in our system sizing, ensuring your installed capacity exceeds your nominal requirement.

Monsoon season brings another challenge. From May through October, heavy rainfall and cloud cover can reduce daily generation by 40% to 60% compared to dry season peaks. Properly designed arrays with appropriate tilt angles self-clean during rain, but shading from overhanging trees becomes critical when the sun sits lower in the sky. Our site surveys include year-round shade analysis to prevent unexpected production drops.

Coastal and island installations face salt spray that corrodes aluminium frames and electrical connections over time. We use marine-grade anodised aluminium frames, stainless steel mounting hardware, and dielectric grease on all electrical terminals. These measures add decades to system life in Koh Chang, Pattaya, Phuket, and other coastal locations.

What You Get with Our Installation Service

• ✓ Free site survey: We assess roof structure, orientation, shading patterns, and electrical capacity. Shade analysis using solar pathfinder tools identifies obstruction angles for all seasons.
• ✓ System design: Custom array layout optimised for your roof geometry and energy consumption. We calculate tilt angle, azimuth, and string configuration for maximum annual yield.
• ✓ Tier 1 panels: We supply monocrystalline and polycrystalline modules from manufacturers with proven bankability and 25-year performance warranties. All panels IEC 61215 and IEC 61730 certified.
• ✓ Professional mounting: Corrosion-resistant aluminium racking, stainless steel fasteners, and waterproof roof penetrations. Systems engineered for 150 km/h wind loads and seismic requirements.
• ✓ Inverter integration: Grid-tie, hybrid, or off-grid inverter matched to your array size and energy goals. Includes DC cabling, combiner boxes, and AC distribution panel connections.
• ✓ Grid connection: We handle net metering application with PEA, including single-line diagrams, electrical permits, and utility inspection coordination.
• ✓ Monitoring setup: WiFi or 4G monitoring gateway, smartphone app configuration, and performance baseline recording. Track generation from day one.
• ✓ 1-year maintenance: Free annual inspection, cleaning, and performance verification included. Panel cleaning at 300 THB per panel thereafter.

Installation Process

Residential vs Commercial Installations

Frequently Asked Questions