An Explanation of the Off-Grid Solar Electric System
If you have ever dreamed of being completely energy independent, then your ultimate aim is to live “off grid”. Most of those who live off grid are in rural areas where electric utility service is either not available or not feasible to hook up. But a growing number of people are considering it as a personal lifestyle option.
See How To Gain From Off-Grid Solar Power
There are a couple of main factors to think about regarding living off-grid. First, you need to become more conscious of how and when you use your electricity. You won’t have to live without it, but you won’t want to waste it, either.
It’s also important that you familiarize yourself with your solar energy system – how it works and what type of upkeep is required. It would be a good idea to become somewhat of an expert on your individual system so you can fix any problem that arises. Becoming an expert is not that hard to do as there is so much information on solar power readily available. But it will require time and commitment on your part.
An off-grid system typically consists of nine components.
1. The photovoltaic array and mounting rack. Wikipedia describes the array as “a linked collection of photovoltaic modules, which are in turn made of multiple interconnected solar cells”. The mounting rack allows you to attach them the roof and face them toward the sun.
2. The array DC (direct current) disconnect. This is basically a breaker between the array and the rest of the system. It allows you to disconnect from the system so you can fix any problems with the array.
Third, the charge controller keeps the batteries from overcharging.
4. The battery bank. The battery bank stores excess electricity. You will usually need sufficient batteries for 2-3 days worth of stored electricity in case of a cloudy period.
Fifth, the system meter is like your car’s dashboard. It reports how the various components in your system are functioning.
An Article on Off-Grid Solar Electricity
Sixth, is the main DC disconnect. This acts as a breaker and is found between the inverter and the batteries.
Seventh, is the inverter. This is the component that transforms the DC (direct current) electricity, which is generated by the array and stored in the batteries, into the AC (alternating current) electricity that can be used by your household appliances.
8. The breaker panel. This is the same type of breaker panel the electric company would use.
Ninth, your backup generator. This is in case you have a period of overcast days and use up the electricity stored in the batteries. Traditional fossil fuels can be used for your generator; however, if you’re maintaining a green lifestyle, you will want to use biodiesel.
Now that you’ve seen the components of the photovoltaic system, you can see why it’s not too complicated to become your own expert. Each component is relatively simple. The only moving parts are in the backup generator, Which you hopefully won’t be using much.