In this article, we will mainly focus more towards Weidmüller Rooftop PV Systems and AC Smart Charging Box in how they both contribute to creating a more eco-friendly environment. Firstly, to run down the concepts of what is renewable and sustainable energy.
Renewable energy refers to the energy that is collected from resources that are naturally replenished on a human timescale, such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, waves and geothermal heat. These sources are essentially inexhaustible, or they are replenished as fast as they are used. Renewable energy sources produce little to no greenhouse gas emissions or other harmful pollutants, making them attractive options for reducing carbon footprints and combating climate change.
As for sustainable energy, it refers to energy sources that meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. This includes not only the type of energy used but also how it is used, and distributed and it is the overall impact on the environment, society and economy. Sustainable energy considers the long-term viability of energy sources, taking into account factors such as environmental impact, social equity and economic feasibility.
Weidmüller Rooftop PV Systems harness solar power to generate electricity from sunlight. These systems exemplify renewable energy technology by converting sunlight into electricity without depleting the source (the sun). By doing so, they offer a sustainable method to produce electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing environmental impact.
Ultech Engineering aims to streamline the installation process of the Weidmüller Rooftop PV Systems, making it simpler, quicker, and safer for installers. Weidmüller achieves this through a comprehensive range of PV combiner boxes, surge protection devices, connectors, tools, and components.
Within the Weidmüller combiner box product line, PV Next, Weidmüller are offering standard models designed for DC-side protection of the installation from the PV panel to the inverter. Additionally, these PV boxes allow for the combining of PV strings to minimize the necessary amount of cabling.
Rooftop PV systems feature smaller-sized solar panels optimized for limited roof space, often using monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicon technology to achieve high efficiency. These panels are designed for mounting on roofs using rail-based or flush-mounted systems, considering factors such as weight, wind loading, and aesthetics. To withstand rooftop conditions like temperature variations and snow loads, these panels are engineered with durability in mind, offering warranties typically ranging from 20 to 25 years.
Installation costs for rooftop PV systems may be slightly higher per watt due to the smaller size of panels and the need for labour, roof modifications, and wiring. Additionally, these panels often include features such as anti-reflective coatings to maximize energy production from varying angles of sunlight, making them ideal for residential and small commercial installations. Common brands for rooftop panels include SunPower, LG Solar, Panasonic, and REC Group, known for their efficiency and suitability for rooftop applications.
The PV Next Combiner Box by Weidmüller offers a standardized and scalable solution for residential and commercial photovoltaic applications. With its innovative PUSH IN technology, it reduces assembly times and minimizes the risk of errors. This combiner box is designed to meet today's standard requirements, enabling PV installers to work faster and more cost-effectively.
The PV Next Fireman Switch provides peace of mind by swiftly disconnecting PV modules from the grid in case of a fire. It offers simple, space-saving installations and energy-saving, fully autonomous switching on and off capabilities. With efficient string combinations, it enables significant cable savings of up to 50%, all within a compact design. Variants with integrated overvoltage protection add an extra layer of safety to the system.
The PV Protect OVP Box ensures optimal inverter protection against overvoltages with ready-to-connect boxes tailored for different system voltages. Offering a range of arrestor types and MPP trackers, it provides a comprehensive solution for safeguarding the photovoltaic system's performance and longevity.
The AC SPD-Box by Weidmuller presents a convenient and efficient solution for surge protection in both charging stations and PV systems. Thanks to its Push-In technology, installation is quick and straightforward, minimizing downtime during setup. This versatile device not only safeguards against overvoltages in the main power lines but also ensures the protection of data lines. Whether integrated into charging stations or PV setups, the AC SPD-Box offers peace of mind, ensuring the uninterrupted operation and longevity of your systems.
The Weidmüller AC SMART Family Charging Box represents a significant step towards optimizing electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. These systems are designed to efficiently manage and control the charging of electric vehicles, offering a range of options tailored to various needs.
Ultech Engineering is proud to introduce the Weidmüller AC SMART charging box family, tailored for diverse private and commercial applications. Weidmüller’s platform-based approach, available in ECO, VALUE and ADVANCED ensures flexibility through standardized interfaces and versatile configurations, meeting the evolving needs of our customers.
Besides that, the AC SMART offers numerous advantages such as the installation and maintenance-friendly design, ensuring ease of use for the technician. Convenient access to the charging station, enhancing user’s experience. Enhancing efficiency throughout its lifecycle provides long-term cost savings. Streamlined installation and maintenance processes, saving time and resources. Reduced potential for errors, guaranteeing reliable performance. Finally, a durable and expandable design which can accommodate future upgrades and expansions.
Other than that, the AC SMART wall box family received recognition through the German Design Award Special 2023. Among the advantages provided by the ACC SMART family are its installation and maintenance-friendly design, convenient access to the charging station and exceptional efficiency throughout its entire cycle.
The AC SMART ECO offers an intuitive solution for charging electric vehicles right at home. This efficient stand-alone wallbox is designed for ease of use, safety, and robust operation, all while being adaptable to individual needs and framework conditions. Easily integrated into existing environments, the AC SMART ECO eliminates the need for costly renovations to the building's electrical installation.
With options for power connections ranging from 1-phase 230V / 32A to 3-phase 400V / 16A or 32A, and featuring a Type 2 socket or an attached 5m Type 2 charging cable, this wallbox offers versatility to suit various setups. Monitor and configure its status conveniently through the app and integrated web server, making your electric car charging experience seamless and efficient.
The AC SMART VALUE charging box provides a secure solution for charging multiple electric vehicles in private multi-family homes or properties with multiple parking spaces. Offering options for fixed allocation of individual charging points or user authentication via RFID/NFC or a mobile app ensures controlled access and prevents unauthorized usage. The integrated static load management system efficiently distributes available resources among connected EV charging boxes, avoiding overloading the existing electrical installation.
Additionally, the integrated energy measurement feature allows for consumption data recording, transmission, and processing through the mobile app or local network. Integration with an existing building automation system enables network-based bidirectional charging control.
Featuring switch functionality for connecting several charging boxes in line, a maximum charging power range from 11 to 22 kW, and power connections for 3-phase 400V / 16A or 32A, along with a Type 2 socket or an attached 5m Type 2 charging cable, the ECO SMART VALUE is a versatile and efficient solution for EV charging needs.
The AC SMART ADVANCED charging box is designed for fast and efficient charging of electric cars, tailored for businesses, self-employed individuals, or municipalities in semi-public environments. It includes dynamic load/charge management, a maximum charging power range of 11 to 22 kW, power connection options for 3-phase 400V / 16A or 32A, a Type 2 socket or an attached 5m Type 2 charging cable, a mobile communication modem (4G/LTE) with Lifetime SIM, and data communication compliant with OCPP 1.6 (J) standards.
In an era where the need for eco-friendly solutions is paramount, Weidmüller stands at the forefront of innovation. Their rooftop PV systems, exemplified by the PV Next Combiner Box and AC SMART Family Charging Boxes, offer not just efficient energy generation, but a promise of a greener, more sustainable future. By harnessing the sun's power with Weidmüller's technology, we reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment for generations to come.
The recognition, such as the German Design Award Special 2023, further solidifies Weidmüller's commitment to excellence and innovation. As Ultech Engineering transitions towards a future powered by renewable energy, Weidmüller's comprehensive solutions pave the way for a greener, more sustainable tomorrow, where energy efficiency and environmental consciousness go hand in hand. Let us embrace these technologies, knowing that each installation brings us closer to a world where renewable energy is not just a choice, but a necessity for a thriving planet and society.
