Off-Grid (stand-alone) PV systems are often applied in isolated places where grid electricity is unavailable or financially not feasible to transmit. Off-Grid requires a careful analysis of the many variables that if not put into a final equation could lead to unsatisfactory performance and premature failure. Under most circumstances, the first step is to list the power requirements of the appliance you intend on operating and determine the average daily hours each will use. This is expressed in a unit of energy -kilowatt hour (KWh).
A unit of energy is the same whether it is derived from alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). A critical load analysis is the energy consumed by each appliance, with the ultimate goal of determining the total average daily energy consumed by all loads in the home. A word of caution here, you may find your loads start getting high when including many resistive loads, i.e., heaters, stove tops and toaster ovens. This daily consumption value is then used to design a battery bank large enough to provide enough energy for the day and additional days of autonomy. Appliances that can be plugged into a standard wall outlet are AC. For off-grid homes with full-time occupancy, the benefits of AC appliances typically outweigh the benefits of DC appliances.
Benefits
- Become completely independent from external energy supplies
- Avoiding spiraling diesel generation costs
- For remote homes, save yourself from outrageous grid connection charges
Whether you are planning a large off grid system or a simple back country cabin, you are going to need some expert help in designing a robust and reliable power system.
Solar ASP expertise in installing, maintaining and repairing off grid battery based power systems. We know what equipment lasts the longest and how to correctly program it to maximize its value.
We can provide a remote power system for almost any need, from automatic generator starting controls to telecommunication stations, and we take great pride in working with our individual customers to create a custom design that meets the owner’s goals and expectations.
