An alternative technology has recently come on the scene in the form of 'module maximizers' (also called 'power optimizers'). Like the Enphase micro-inverter, one module maximizer is attached to each panel and performs "dynamic module balancing".
I know of three such products:
The SolarMagic product purportedly reclaims up to 50% of lost energy due to shading. TIGO claims "Up to 20% more Energy." And Xandex says their SolarMizer can be selectively installed on only those panels subject to shading. More research is needed!
One immediate advantage of the TIGO system is the availability of individual panel system monitoring. Monitoring is very important in diagnosing panel issues. One large bird dropping can rob an entire series of panels half as effective. Monitoring can quickly identify the panel in trouble so that you can remedy the problem.
The Enphase micro-inverters also offer monitoring. Monitoring is not mentioned for SolarMagic and SolarMizer.
I've been concerned about how to best monitor my system and have even considered building my own micro-controller board that talks to the inverter and sends data to my Macintosh once a minute (or so). While that would be great fun it sure would be nice to have monitoring from Day One.
TIGO, like Enphase, offers a system monitoring device and web-hosting of data. It costs: first six months free, then $350 for five years. But it also offers remote system management including the ability to completely shut down the system for safety in case some service was required.
Another advantage of a monitoring system of this kind is that it is independent of the kind of inverter being used.
I'm off to do more research and the check availability.
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