One of the most exciting parts of working in the field of solar energy today, a cornerstone of renewable energy, is how fast the technology and tools for solar installation are evolving. Not only that, but there has been a significant increase in the demand for tools and supplies in the solar industry. Recent shift in buyer perspective highlights this growth. Innovation and research have helped the sector truly hit its stride in recent years, as the efficiency of solar PV is skyrocketing while costs have decreased dramatically compared to 10 years ago. These advancements provide a new way for solar installers to enhance their projects.
Solar installers deal with a variety of solar inventory – everything from solar modules, solar panels, solar transformers, and solar cells to photovoltaic (PV) materials such as solar paste and PV glass. Of course, other equipment includes PV connectors, racking and mounting materials, batteries, storage, inverters, and accessories, solar installation tools, and safety equipment.
Luckily for solar installers, while solar software is changing fast, many of the tools for solar panel installation have remained consistent. Let’s look at the top five must-have tools that your solar field crew needs to have in the field!
1. Solar Panel Hanger
One of the newest introductions to the solar industry, the solar panel hanger is an ingenious invention that provides a seamless and straightforward solution to hold and position panels while on a rail. The hanger sits on the track and allows a solar panel to be safely and efficiently placed square to the rail for a seamless installation. Plus, with this hanger, solar installers can avoid maneuvering a 50-pound cell, while eliminating the risk of the panel falling off a steep roof. This tool is reliable and works well in various installation scenarios.
2. Battery Operated Drill
A battery-operated drill might seem simple, but you’d be surprised at how many solar companies are still using corded tools for on-site installations. First, a powerful and efficient battery-operated drill is a must-have tool for any solar worker. From installing railings to securing transmission lines, a drill will be your worker’s best friend during a solar panel system installation. Using a battery system ensures flexibility and convenience, especially in areas where used electricity is not readily available.
3. PV Tester
Solar energy systems require high-quality testers, and there are great options on the market to choose from. Equipping your solar field crews with a PV tester that can accurately check the power quality and energy power being emitted by the cells is essential. Some advanced models allow for performance monitoring, in-field reports, and remote measurements to provide your team with the most up-to-date information while on site. This data can then be leveraged for data analysis to ensure optimal system performance.
4. Cable and Connector Tools
Naturally, the solar industry relies on electrician tools, and one of the must-haves for solar system installations are crimping pliers. These classic pliers allow workers to re-work and install electrical lines in a solar power system without worrying about electrocution. Additionally, if you’re looking to buy a combination of pliers, some great solar-specific sets are available online that will set your team up for long-term success. Investing in the right tools can reduce costs associated with installation maintenance and potential reworks, providing a full range of capability in the field.
Related: 10 Easy DIY Solar Panel Installation Tips
5. Fall Protection
If your solar field team is working on roofs or at any height, fall protection gear is a must-have. Fall protection gear includes harnesses, ropes, and helmets to ensure that everyone at your site is safe. For many start-ups, emphasizing fall prevention is often overlooked, which can lead to accidents. No matter how experienced you are, everyone makes mistakes, and when that mistake is on a roof, it could cost you your life if you aren’t equipped with proper fall protection. Ensuring compliance with installation maintenance practices is vital to mitigate risks.
BONUS 6. Mobile Apps Designed for Them
Missed steps or human errors can create frustrating delays for your field team and customers during the installation or commissioning process. When vital steps are only in people’s heads, technicians—especially less experienced ones—are prone to miss critical tasks.
By standardizing and automating these steps in a mobile app built and customized for your solar field teams, you can ensure that your next installation process follows your company’s procedure exactly – whether by an entry-level or experienced technician. Online or offline, crew members can easily follow and document all the right steps in the installation process and immediately communicate any issues with the office using design software like solar project management software and contextual communication tools such as photo and video tagging. Utilizing software solutions like these may also facilitate, shading analysis, and system design to optimize efficiency. A solar design tool can help create projects effectively, ensuring that the entire system installation is streamlined and solar system configurations are integrated properly. Additionally, solar shading techniques can significantly improve system efficiency by reducing unwanted shadowing on panels. The tools are based on cutting-edge technology to ensure optimal performance.
