A unique challenge: PV system for TESO ferry

Installation Date: November 2013

Dokter Wagemaker ferry

PV Design: Texel4Trading

1.04 kWp

Modules: CSUN 260-60 and AUO/Benq 325-96

Micro inverters: I-Energy

Inverters: SMA sb1200

In 2013 TESO approached Texel4Trading with a request to develop a PV system for the Dokter Wagemaker ferry.

Our goal was to develop a simple and easy to maintain solution that would provid a surplus energy output, and in which the PV panels & the supporting structures would be durable in the installation environment with minimal maintenance.

We configured two sets of four panels at the installation site. Each set contains four high efficiency Benq 327 Wp panels and four full-glass panels. Full glass panels were selected to endure corrosive conditions, including constant exposure to saltwater. The service life of full-glass panels will be considerably longer in this environment than the service life of metal-framed panels. 

We selected two inverter systems for the Dokter Wagemaker. One is a system with a string inverter in which all modules deliver the same amount of energy as the panel with the lowest yield; we opted for micro inverters for the second, which deliver the same amount of energy as the panel with the maximum yield. These systems were selected to combat the regular frequency changes that will be caused by the constant change of the position of the system in relation to the sun. By generating at the panel level, we designed the system to prevent malfunctions at system level. 

We entered into a testing phase following the installation of the system. This phase enabled us to optimize the system and to build expertise and technical knowledge in the creation of PV systems for moving structures.