An Explanation of the Off-Grid Solar Power System

If you have ever dreamed of becoming completely energy independent, then your ultimate aim is to live “off grid”. Most people who live off grid live in rural areas where electric power service is not even available. But there is growing interest in choosing off-grid living as a way of life.

A Report on Off-Grid Solar Power

There are a couple of important factors to consider regarding living off-grid. First, you need to be more aware of how and when you use your electricity.  You want to be careful not to waste it.

Second, you’ll want to become familiar with how the solar power system works, and what kind of upkeep is required. It would be advantageous to become somewhat of an expert on your individual system so you could troubeshoot any any unexpected problem that may arise. Becoming an “pro” is not that hard to do as there an abundance of information on solar energy readily available. However, it can require a bit of your time and commitment.

An off-grid system typically consists of nine components.

First, 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 point 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 in order to troubleshoot problems with the array.

Third, the charge controller keeps the batteries from overcharging.

4. The battery bank. The battery bank stores excess electricity. Because there will be cloudy periods when sunlight cannot reach the solar cells, you will need about 2 to 3 days worth of stored electricity

5. The system meter. The system meter works like the dashboard of your car. It reports how the various components in your system are functioning.

See How To Benefit From Off-Grid Solar Energy

Sixth, is the main DC disconnect. This acts as a breaker and is found between the inverter and the batteries.

7. The inverter. This is the device that converts the DC (direct current) electricity, which is generated by the array and stored in the batteries, into the AC (alternating current) electricity that can power your household appliances.

8. The breaker panel. This is the same type of breaker panel that the electric company uses to connect your house wiring to its electrical source.

9. Your backup generator. A backup generator may be needed if there is a stretch of cloudy days and you have depleted the power that was stored in the batteries. You can use traditional fossil fuels, but you may want to use biodiesel to support your green lifestyle.

As you can see, each component is relatively simple in and of itself. The only motorized parts are in the backup generator (which you hopefully won’t have to use much). Now that we’ve examined the components of the photovoltaic system, you can see why it’s not too complicated to become your own expert.

A Report on Off-Grid Solar Energy

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