David Sweetman, Group Marketing & Business Development Director for the Di-LOG Group, takes a deeper dive into the next generation of testing solutions which are powering solar PV installations.
As the global demand for renewable energy grows, solar power remains at the forefront of sustainable solutions. In the UK, the adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) technology is rapidly increasing, with both residential and commercial sectors embracing solar installations as an essential step towards reducing carbon footprints and achieving energy independence.
To support the growing solar market, Di-LOG, a leading provider of innovative test and measurement solutions, has launched the next generation of solar PV test kits: the SL350 Professional Plus and the SL520 Expert.
These advanced kits are designed to help solar installers and technicians efficiently and accurately install, test, and maintain solar PV systems, ensuring optimal performance for residential, commercial, and industrial installations.
A snapshot of the solar PV market
The UK solar energy market has seen significant growth over the past decade. According to recent statistics, there are now over one million solar installations across the UK, with a combined capacity of over 13 gigawatts (GW).
This number continues to climb, with both domestic and commercial installations contributing to the nation’s renewable energy targets.
The UK Government has set ambitious goals to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, and solar power plays a crucial role in this journey.
In the domestic sector, solar installations have become increasingly popular, particularly among homeowners seeking to reduce energy bills and carbon footprints. By the end of 2025, experts predict that the number of solar installations on domestic rooftops could exceed 2 million.
Meanwhile, the commercial sector is also seeing robust growth, with solar becoming an integral part of corporate sustainability strategies. With advancements in solar technology, including battery storage solutions, businesses are opting for large- scale solar systems to power operations, reduce energy costs, and meet green energy requirements.
The SL350 Professional Plus
The Di-LOG SL350 Professional Plus Solar PV Test Kit is designed to meet the demanding needs of solar professionals, offering a powerful combination of precision and ease of use.
This comprehensive kit is equipped with a variety of tools that help solar installers assess system performance and troubleshoot any issues.
At the heart of the SL350 kit is the SL104 Solar Irradiance Survey Tool. This versatile device is capable of measuring both solar irradiance and temperature – two critical factors that determine the efficiency of a solar PV system. The tool includes both internal and external probes, which allow users to measure the temperature of PV panels and cells, ensuring that the system is operating within optimal thermal conditions.
Additionally, the SL104 features a compass inclinometer that helps users assess roof pitch angles and array orientations on-site. This tool is essential for ensuring that installations align with industry standards such as IEC 62446-1, which governs the performance and testing of solar PV systems. The SL350 kit also includes the DL6414 TRMS 1000 A AC/DC Clamp Meter, a high- performance tool for measuring a range of electrical parameters, including voltage measurements up to 1,000 V AC/DC. The clamp meter is ideal for testing large domestic and medium to large-sized commercial PV systems, as it is capable of measuring high open-circuit voltage (VOC), which is often required for high- efficiency solar installations.
With advanced features like Inrush Current Measurement, Low Impedance (LoZ) Testing, and the ability to measure Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) systems, the DL6414 provides a comprehensive set of capabilities for both solar and industrial applications, enabling technicians to complete their jobs efficiently and accurately.
The SL520 Expert
For professionals seeking the highest level of performance and precision, the SL520 Expert Solar PV Test Kit represents the pinnacle of testing equipment.
While the SL520 shares many of the same features as the SL350, including the SL104 Solar Irradiance Survey Tool, it steps up the capabilities with the inclusion of the DL6508 TRMS 1500A AC/DC Clamp Meter with Power Measurement.
This advanced clamp meter extends the current measurement range up to 1,500 A AC/DC, making it perfect for testing large-scale commercial and industrial PV installations that require higher capacity.
The DL6508 features a 40,000-count backlit display for enhanced readability, even in low-light conditions, and can measure power (kVA/kW), power factor, and inrush current. These additional features allow solar technicians to troubleshoot complex issues with greater efficiency, ensuring that systems are operating optimally.
Another unique feature of the SL520 Expert kit is its focus on power measurement, which is critical for installers working on commercial solar systems. Accurate power measurements can help identify inefficiencies and ensure that solar systems are meeting performance expectations.
With the ability to measure both AC and DC power, the SL520 Expert gives users the tools they need to perform comprehensive system diagnostics and provide clients with reliable performance data.
Key features
Both the SL350 Professional Plus and the SL520 Expert Solar PV Test Kits come with a host of features designed to meet the specific needs of solar professionals:
Accurate solar irradiance and temperature measurement
The SL104 Solar Irradiance Survey Tool ensures precise measurements of solar irradiance and temperature, which are critical for assessing system performance and efficiency.
Versatile compass inclinometer
The built-in inclinometer allows for accurate assessment of roof pitch angles and array orientations, helping technicians plan and execute installations with confidence.
High voltage measurement capabilities
Both kits offer voltage measurement capabilities up to 1,000 V DC, making them suitable for large domestic and commercial systems.
Impedance (LoZ – DL6414), Power Measurement (DL6508), and more
These tools are invaluable for troubleshooting, performance verification, and system optimisation.
Durability and reliability
Built to withstand the rigours of daily use, the Di-LOG test kits are robust and designed for professionals working in demanding environments, supporting a two-year warranty.
Streamlining workflows and improving efficiency
The growing demand for solar PV systems in both the domestic and commercial sectors places pressure on solar professionals to ensure installations are completed efficiently and safely.
Di-LOG’s range of Solar PV Test Kits simplifies the testing and commissioning process, streamlining workflows and enhancing productivity.
Whether you’re installing solar systems on rooftops or troubleshooting complex commercial setups, the tools empower professionals to deliver exceptional results, reduce downtime, and improve system reliability.
As the solar energy sector continues to expand, the importance of high-quality testing and measurement tools cannot be overstated. With the launch of the SL350 Professional Plus and SL520 Expert test kits, Di-LOG continues to support solar installers and technicians with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry.
Browse Di-LOG’s range of Solar PV Test Kits here
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