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A Historic Mill's Solar Journey: Rooftop PV Plant in France
Project name:
La Rochelle MIV
Inverter:
S450S, S800S, S1600S
Installed Capacity (AC):
2.85 kW
Annual Output:
3.4 MWh
COD Time:
2024. 03. 20
The Background
March 2024 – In the serene countryside of La Vallée, La Rochelle, an old mill stands against the tests of time — its towering stone walls whisper stories of days long gone. Once powered by water, it is now ready for a new journey, one that harnesses the power of the sun. Central to this transformation is a newly installed 3 kWp rooftop PV system, designed to blend modern solar technology with the mill’s historic architecture. To ensure maximum efficiency, Sungrow’s latest microinverters—the S450S, S800S, and S1600S—were chosen for their ability to optimize power generation while offering simple installation and strong Wi-Fi connectivity. With this advanced system in place, the mill is projected to generate 3.4 MWh of clean energy annually, bringing it in line with the future of energy technology while preserving its historic charm.
The Challenges
The prospect of powering a historic site with solar energy was exciting, but it came with an unexpected challenge. The mill’s massive stone walls, built centuries ago from large, solid blocks that were as thick as 50 to 60 centimeters, hampered wirelesscommunication. In an era where a strong Wi-Fi signal was crucial for real-time data monitoring and efficient energy management, these storied walls were a critical obstacle to overcome.
The Solution
Fortunately, Sungrow’s microinverters offered a cutting-edge solution. Designed with a high-performance Wi-Fi module, they featured enhanced signal penetration, wide coverage, and strong anti-interference capabilities. On-site testing proved that the system was able to transmit through two layers of thick stone walls without compromising signal stability, maintaining a signal strength of -70 dB. The transmission radius also extended beyond 11.5 meters, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout the project site. This means that one of the project’s primary aims — to integrate new solar technology into the mill without altering its historic aesthetics — was successfully achieved. Preserving the past while powering the future.
The Impacts
France has always been a leading force and key market in Europe’s solar revolution. Projects like this showcase how Sungrow’s microinverter technology can perform reliably in any setting, from modern rooftops to historic landmarks. As France’s solar industry evolves, these microinverters will play a central role, helping to ensure a bright and sustainable energy future for the country.
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