The REnU is made up of three primary components. These components are listed below. However, we would like to note that the REnU is different from other solar electric systems. This is because we utilize an AC PV panel as opposed to a DC PV panel. In our system, direct current is inverted into alternate current immediately, as opposed to routing a series of panels to a central inverter.

There are many benefits from this type of design. The most important are a lower component count. With a lower component count, the overall system is less intrusive and intuitively means that there is less likelihood of failure. By utilizing AC PV, there is less line-loss – a phenomenon that occurs in DC wiring where electricity bleeds out of the line. Having each panel invert there generated electricity also minimizes the potential of your entire system failing.

If the inverter fails on a panel, then all the system suffers is the power generated from that individual panel. If a central inverter fails, then the entire system shuts down. And yet another benefit is its extreme scalability. Because each panel is independent, the entire system can be scaled-up or scaled-down depending on your usage. Citizenrē believes that its design is the best on the market, and that as you read further about our system components, our operations, and our REnU program you will come to believe the same.

AC PV Panel

The principal component of the system, an AC PV panel utilizes solar cells to convert sunlight directly into dc electricity. It then converts dc power into ac power through an attached micro-inverter and channels it to the AHC, where the AHC determines where to distribute the power.

It should be mentioned that AC PV panels can generate electricity on a cloudy or overcast day, albeit with less efficiency. Another fact of interest is that PV panels are even known to reduce heat absorption by your home, minimizing the need for air conditioning.

Advanced Hybrid Controller (AHC)

The Advanced Hybrid Controller is the device that monitors and manages the distribution of electricity. Its capability extends even further by monitoring and managing the flow of energy between you, the PV system, and the utility. What’s more, the AHC also has the ability to manage secondary storage and generation devices for even more flexibility and control.

Connection Structures

Connection Structures are comprised of the simple electrical wiring structures and the rail mounting structure. Of course, electrical wiring is what is needed to connect the AC PV panels to the AHC, and the AHC to your AC cabinet and the utility. But because the REnU is an AC structure, very little additional equipment is needed – an AC PV Array junction box and roof mounting rail. The junction box combines the electrical wiring from each panel into one line routed to the AHC. The rail is another simple structure that secures your PV array to your roof top with the least amount of invasion and the most strength. Its design allows simple snap-and click design for the array. It makes it easy to adjust, scale, and to maintain.

A few concerns that you may have are: Will it cause leaks or damage my roof? Can it start a fire? Is there increased risk of electrocution? Or more benignly, can I power 240V appliances and equipment? The answers are: In our installation, we make certain that we utilize proper sealants and coverings to minimize the possibility of leaks, damage, or electrical risk. We must conform to local building and electrical codes and furthermore undergo independent and municipal inspections to ensure reliability and safety. As to the systems ability to provide 240V, the answer is plain and simply, yes.

The whole system is unique in its design, and is engineered to be plug-and-play. For an animation showing how the system works and interplays with your usage and the local utility click here.