What are the basics of Solar Energy?

[goldengirl88]

Hi all,
So I'm pretty new to solar energy and that sort of thing, I really don't know anything at all!! Except that I want to be able to be off grid and where I plan on living there isn't really even the option to be on grid. So I was wondering if all you experts could give me a run down on the basics of solar energy? I don't know if it's practical but I would love to have a system set up where there's enough power to run lights, a computer, a fridge, and a well pump. What are the basic things you need to set up a solar energy system? And what type of panels, charger boxes, etc would I need? I really don't have any electrical type experience and I won't be putting in solar power for a couple years but I want to try and learn as much as possible so I can be prepared to do it right and be able to figure out an approximate cost so I know how much I need to have saved.
Thanks all,
Danielle ???

[bee_pipes]

The best primer I have ever seen is "Power with Nature" by Rex A. Ewing. You can find it new at Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/Power-Nature-Second-Alternative-Homeowners/dp/0965809897/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1224179915&sr=1-1) or used through the usual channels. This book will tell you the parts needed, how they connect and even has worksheets in the back of the book to figure out your requirements for power. It's a good investment. It's a lot like any other tool or technology - terminology. Once you learn the names of the parts and the general hook-up, the rest is a lot of common sense. The book will also let you know whether this is something you want to tackle yourself, or if you want to hire a pro. Regardless of which way you go, you want to know enough to be sure you are covering your needs and getting value for money spent.

Also, look through the older posts in this conference. 12vMan, a member here, has been living off-grid for quite a long time.

Regards,
Pat

[12vman]

Look at all of the creature comforts you desire and investigate the alternatives that uses much less energy to get the same results.

Example.. The Fridge

Trying to operate a standard box store fridge with solar power is an expensive endeavor within itself. I don't believe the system that operates my whole house could support a standard fridge! I use propane instead. I'd like to get away from using propane and go with a 12 volt Sunfrost. (http://www.sunfrost.com/refrigerators_main.html) I would need to add some more panels to support it but not nearly as many. In the long run, I'd be saving money and have more security from not needing propane..

There are many options for low voltage lighting and other practical products for doing chores to accommodate comfortable living that can easily be supported by solar energy. Study the alternatives carefully. It could save you a bunch of money.

[goldengirl88]

I'm more than willing to use a propane fridge or to consider any alternatives that will make things cheaper. I'd also use energy efficiant lighting, I just don't know anything about it all and what the options are and what would be the most cost efficient and the highest quality. I'm willing to learn I just have no clue where to even start. And like I said I have no electrical experience and that makes things harder since I don't understand all of the electrical lingo. The only experience I have with solar power (or electrical stuff) is the solar electric fence charger I have on my pasture fencing if that gives you an idea of how new this all is to me!! I'm willing to learn and I'm a quick study I just need it all laid out really simply at first!
Thanks for all of your help! You've been so helpful so far!!
Danielle

[12vman]

Take a look at this (http://sunelco.com/classroom.aspx). It's a simple rundown on terms and understanding the difference between A.C. and D.C. voltages.

[burnin_up_in_AZ]

I am completely off grid and have a 18cf frost free fridge, propane dryer, elec washer, well pump (240v...system has two inverters) 19 gallon, 1500 watt water heater, propane water heater for back up, pool pump, evap cooler, 5000 cfm; 15KW generac genset for back up.

My system will run all of these but not all at once unless you are using the genset. We had a propane fridge but it was so small and stunk up the kitchen.

Optimal time to run these items is 10 to 2 pm as you want your batteries to store up for sundown to sun up. Cloudy days, forget solar. dont use much on cloudy days or use genset.

Always have a powerful genset for back up. My system is 28 panels, 3.5 KW, 24 L-16 batteries, 2 outback inverters, 2 charge controllers. We still run out of power in the summer with that evap cooler going and pool pump and well pump. Need genset backup. new one runs on gasoline, propane, or natural gas so we can use whatever the cheapest fuel is at the time. My propane runs 3.04 delivered. If I can help in any other way, please pm me for email address.