Off-grid systems

Stand alone power systems are usually used where power requirements are relatively low and a grid connection or generator is not available or required. These systems use battery banks to store excess electricity generated during the day so that it can be used when your solar system is not generating sufficient power. When choosing to install a stand alone system it must be correctly sized to ensure that a reliable power supply can be achieved. Another factor to consider is that batteries can be expensive and will require ongoing maintenance. These systems can also be adapted to include generators which can be used to supply additional power as required.

An off-grid system needs at least 4 components:

• Solar panel
• Inverter to convert DC current generated into AC current
• Battery to store excess of energy
• Charge controller to control battery over-charging

On-grid systems

A grid connected solar system allows you to use the electricity grid when the solar system is not generating enough electricity to satisfy the demand. These systems may also give the opportunity to sell any excess electricity generated back to the electricity supplier. A grid connect solar system will only operate when a grid supply is present so that the system will not charge lines that maintenance crews believe are inactive. Because the solar modules are connected to the electricity grid, system size is not crucial. The main purpose of this type of solar system is to reduce energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions while generating extra income.

| 01.01.2009 | Read more | Print |