what equipment do you need for your home solar energy project?
I am often asked to explain the fundamentals of solar energy and its advantages.
Once any discussion begins, the angle and point of view of the topic does not seem to be over.
It seems that the individuals and groups I spoke to are always curious to know, \"What does it take to build a solar system, how much does it cost \"?
This article is intended to give you the basic requirements for building or outsourcing projects.
We won\'t cover much technical detail, but here is what you need. There are four (4)
The main equipment you need to get you on the road to free energy (well almost). 1. Solar Panels 2.
Charging Controller 3.
Battery 4.
The power inverter solar panel is the unit that looks up at the Sun and collects the sun\'s light.
These panels convert the light of the sun into DC current.
This is the same current as in a flashlight or iPod battery.
The number of solar panels required is determined by the amount of electricity required when the sun does not shine.
You see that the electricity generated during the day is stored in the battery for later use.
That\'s what the charging controller does.
It works to make sure your battery is not over
Charge during the day.
A good controller will also direct the current to any single battery that requires more charging than other batteries.
The battery is the fuel for all solar power generation.
These batteries are available in a variety of types including RV/Ocean/golf cart, AGM, flood and gel.
Different types of batteries have different ways of storing and charging and releasing current, but this is a whole new article.
When the sun is not shining on the solar panel, you need to power your home, and these batteries are required to power where you need them.
The amount of electricity available for your use is determined by the size of the battery\'s storage capacity.
Keep in mind that the battery only provides DC current.
Use air conditioning (your appliances, lights, etc)alternating)current.
So how do we convert DC power to AC power? Here\'s how. . .
The power inverter converts 12 v dc current to 110 v ac current, available current for home use in North America, and 220 V in most other countries.
As long as the power is stored in the battery, the inverter will provide a steady stream of power to wherever you need it.
There are many free online solar estimation programs that let you know how many solar panels and batteries your project needs.
But it\'s basically 100 square meters.
Feet of solar panels per kilowatt (kW)
The solar output we want.
But this is also mentioned in the next article.
You see, it\'s not as hard as you think.
So let\'s start. Good luck.