Method and an arrangement in connection with a solar energy system

Abstract

An arrangement and a method are provided in connection with a solar energy system. The arrangement includes solar panels and a converter for converting the DC voltage from the solar panels. The converter is arranged inside a container or a similar closed structure. The arrangement includes means for producing heat from the energy produced by the solar panels. The means are arranged inside the container or a similar closed structure and are electrically connectable to the solar panels.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 to European Patent Application No. 11152686.9 filed in Europe on Jan. 31, 2011, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD[0002]The present disclosure relates to a converter arrangement in a container structure containing at least part of the electrical components of the converter, and more particularly to a container structure in which the indoor climate is controlled.BACKGROUND INFORMATION[0003]Converters are used in many applications for converting electrical energy from one form to another. Converters are used, for example, in connection with solar power. In solar power applications, the converter receives DC voltage from the photovoltaic panels and generally converts it to AC voltage. AC voltage is further fed to the network. In solar power applications, the converter used for converting the voltage is also called a solar inverter.[0004]Converters or inverte...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0019]According to the method and arrangement of the present disclosure, the temperature cycling can be minimized with a very cost effective solution. Due to reduced temperature cycling, the semiconductor component in the converter structure lasts longer. Further, since the temperature can be kept at a higher level, the problem relating to humidity is greatly alleviated.

Problems solved by technology

The cyclical operation of the inverter causes problems relating to the temperature and humidity inside the enclosure.

The temperature inside the enclosure varies considerably and the repeated changes in the temperature cause the semiconductor components to wear out prematurely.

Further, the humidity inside the container may cause short circuits.

The condensed water may also freeze inside the container, which may block the operation of the converter completely.

If the inside air contains humidity, it may condensate without control in the wrong place.

Since containers or similar structures enclosing the converter are not airtight, wet air passes easily inside the containers, and the condensed water causes problems which may lead to total breakage of the system.

In very harsh conditions, the temperature inside the container may get considerably below zero degrees Celsius.

Normal electronic components are not specified in temperatures which are near −20° C. It is possible that the equipment does not start, or it may get damaged due to the temperature.

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