One of the many ideas a person can have in regard to taking control of their own destiny, is to find an alternative source of power that they can use in place of their current umbilical cord linking their home or business to the electric utility company. Most of us know all too well that at the current rate of increase in the cost of energy, our bills will soon go way out of sight. Everywhere you look, you can visually see how energy costs have made literally everything we buy more expensive. Thankfully, there are some things we can do that will help ease the pain. We can plan an installation of an efficient and renewable energy supply simply called Solar Power.
These power systems include (for a grid tie unit) solar modules to collect the Sun’s light and convert it to a usable direct current (DC), and a solar power inverter to convert the DC current to alternating current (AC) which is then dispatched to your outdoor electrical grid. With this type system, the electrical current coming from your power inverter during daylight hours is literally connected to the utilities, but not before being channeled through a DC fused disconnect. You do not need batteries for back-up power on grid connected systems, as the utility grid will take over completely in supplying your home’s power needs. In the event of a power outage of your utility grid, the inverter isolates its connection to the grid by means of either a transformer or an IC (integrated circuit). This is a safety feature on all good quality grid tie power inverters. This feature eliminates the possibility of power feed-back from your solar power system to the grid. You sure don’t want the power company’s linemen working on a downed power line, only to have 110-230 volts electrocuting them with current coming for your solar power system!
The other option in regard to solar power system types would be a ‘stand alone’ or off grid power system. In this situation, you would more than likely be looking for a system to supply you your entire energy requirements. In addition to the solar modules and power inverter, you will need a battery charge controller and a bank of deep cycle batteries to supply your energy needs when there is no daylight present. This set-up literally gives you complete control of your energy usage. You won’t be able to rely on the utility’s grid for supplemental electricity. This type system will most definitely cause you to scrutinize more closely your energy usage. In a grid tie system, you can start out with a smaller size setup with just a few solar modules, and then work your way up as you can afford the additional costs.
Another positive aspect concerning the installation of a grid tie power system is that most grid tie power inverters can be converted to off grid use. You would then need to purchase the other necessary equipment and batteries to accommodate that system. Reversely, an off grid power inverter can not be used as a grid tie power inverter.
By installing either type solar power system, you will be a huge step closer to energy independence.
