When it comes to finding the best solar installer for your needs factors to consider are installation costs, any solar loans available in your area, and any applicable tax credits or incentives.
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Battery Backup Systems
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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.
In areas where power outages are common, backup power sources are extremely important. Depending upon what loads you need to run and for what period of time, you may need an actual battery based system.
Fill out this form with as much information as you can, and we'll get back to you with a system design!
Before beginning your renewable energy journey, read this guide on the five most important tips to consider.
Read more about the deep-cycling batteries used in solar and other renewable energy applications and the differences between flooded lead-acid and sealed batteries.
If the battery bank is oversized, you risk not being able to keep it fully charged; if the battery bank is sized too small, you won't be able to run your intended loads for as long as you'd planned.
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.
Basic schematics with examples of series and parallel connections for batteries.
Accurately knowing the state of charge of your batteries and keeping them properly charged can extend their life, keep your system running properly, and save you money.
Two-part video series on battery charging terminology, concepts, and techniques.
Tips on locating and installing lead acid batteries for an off-grid renewable energy system.
Get to know the pros and cons of each kind of solar electric system: PV Direct, Grid-Tied, Off-Grid, Grid-Tied with Battery Backup, and Hybrid systems.
Understanding the basics of electricity is an important building block for any work with PV.
Learn the fundamentals of measuring rates and quantities of electrical energy, tailored for DIY solar enthusiasts.
Voltage-schmoltage! Read more about the four main voltages used in RE systems.
Learn what inverters are and how they are used in a solar power system.
Learn why you need an inverter in your renewable energy system, the different optional features that they offer, and the advantages/disadvantages of different inverter types.
Learn about the different sine waves by seeing oscilloscope images created by various Inverters in action!
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.
Learn how to properly install an off-grid inverter with this step-by-step guide.
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 do you size a PWM solar charge controller? With a little math, it's pretty easy!
Learn the pros and cons of PWM and MPPT charge controllers with these comparisons and accompanying video.
Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) is a popular technology that an increasing number of solar charge controllers offer. While MPPT charge controllers usually cost more than traditional solar charge controllers, the gain in overall charging efficiency makes them well worth it in most cases.
Learn how to size an MPPT solar charge controller for your off-grid solar electric system and how to take advantage of some of this type of charge controller's benefits.
Handy tool for sizing wires and cables for 12-volt, 24-volt, and 48-volt systems.
Determine the maximum amount of electrical current (amps) that can safely flow through different wire gauges.
Determine what size inverter-to-battery cables and DC breaker (or fuse) you should use with an off-grid inverter to install and operate it safely.
Solar energy is a resource for all parts of the world. Read on to find out more about your specific location.
Short answer: It depends on the size of the system and what type of loads you want to run...
Maybe. But there are reasons to consider not to...
Preparation for any off-grid electric system begins with assessment and calculation of your energy needs. The primary tool used for this task is a Loads List.
Quickly find the the typical power rating (in Watts) of many common household appliances. Use this information to help estimate how large your alternative energy system needs to be.
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.
"The right tool for the job makes all the difference."
Two parallel strings of two modules in series.
U.S. Department of Energy handbooks for improving new home efficiency, comfort and durability in various climates zones.
A brief description of the major components of a Solar PV System. Note that components vary depending on whether or not batteries will be used in your system. There are additional small components required for a complete installation that are not listed here.
The answer has a lot to do with understanding your site's potential for insolation, wind, and water flow.
Many of the folks who visit our site are interested in installing a solar or wind electric system for their home but they do not know where to begin. Although to a certain degree each situation is different there are a few basic things that we will need to know to get you started.
Figure out which renewable energy system is right for you and find links to contact us for any kind of system design and quote you need.
Maps of insolation and solar PV potential across the United States.
Solar insolation data for many large U.S. cities.
Maps of insolation and solar PV potential across the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America.
Maps of insolation and solar PV potential across South America.
Worldwide maps of insolation and solar PV potential.
Definitions of many of the frequently used terms within renewable energy.
Watch the recorded webinar sessions given by OutBack, SimpliPhi, Sol-Ark, MidNite Solar, SMA, Morningstar, KiloVault, Schneider, and more during our 2022 Virtual Solar Conference.
Watch the recorded webinar sessions given by Sol-Ark, OutBack Power, Morningstar, KiloVault, Schneider, MT Solar, S-5!, and Tamarack Solar during our 2021 Virtual Solar Conference.