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Off Grid Solar Power Systems

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What are solar batteries?

What are solar batteries?

Solar batteries are an important part of any solar energy system, allowing the energy from the sun to be stored and used later. Charging solar batteries is not as complicated as it may seem, but there are certain things to consider before doing so. This post will provide an overview of how to charge a solar battery, types of solar batteries, how long solar batteries typically last, whether you can charge solar batteries without a charge controller, and how much they cost.
Everything You Need to Know About Going Off-Grid with Solar

Everything You Need to Know About Going Off-Grid with Solar

Going off the grid is a commitment that requires complete solar power systems for your home or business, which is why the altE Off Grid Solar System Sizing Calculator was designed. From sizing your battery bank and calculating the number of watts of solar power you need, this calculator will help make sure you don’t needlessly spend money on equipment or supplies. Many people find that DIY solar is the ideal way to own a complete solar panel system. 
kWh Calculator

kWh Calculator

A helpful tool for estimating your electricity usage when you don't have old utility bills handy - and an essential tool for planning a system that will meet your electricity needs.
Intro to Solar Panels

Intro to Solar Panels

This 2-part video series discusses solar panel basics: voltage, current, power, grid-tied vs. off-grid applications, Standard Test Conditions, connecting modules, and mono vs poly solar cells.
Solar PV Panels Overview

Solar PV Panels Overview

Solar electric panels (also known as photovoltaic modules) are perhaps the most popular of the renewable energy technologies for home owners. This article goes over some of technical basics behind solar electric panels and how they are used in larger systems.
MC Cable Types

MC Cable Types

PV modules often come with special connectors (wires) on the back rather than just a junction box. There are several different types of connectors, and it's important to understand the difference between them.
How to Select an Inverter for Your Needs

How to Select an Inverter for Your Needs

All inverters convert direct current (DC) electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, but that's where the similarities end between inverters. These days, a huge number of brands and options are available to consumers, and the correct choice for you depends on how you intend to use it.
Expanding a Deep Cycle Battery Bank

Expanding a Deep Cycle Battery Bank

If you’ve added new appliances, purchased an EV, or have more people living in the house now than when you first designed your system, your batteries may not be able to keep up with your new energy demands.
How Does a Solar Charge Controller Work?

How Does a Solar Charge Controller Work?

Solar charge controllers are an essential element to any solar electric panel system. At a most basic level, charge controllers prevent batteries from being overcharged and prevent the batteries from discharging through the solar panel array at night.
How to Wire a Solar System

How to Wire a Solar System

Learn to calculate NEC-compliant wire sizes for an off-grid or grid-tied solar PV system, including de-rating calculations for temperature, conduit fill, distance off the roof, and more.