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.
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.
Solar electricity does not have to be complicated. However, becoming a PV system owner does require a basic level of understanding, and this article is a good place to start.
Improving your home's energy efficiency should be your first step before purchasing a renewable energy system. Every $1 spent on efficiency improvements can save you $3 - $5 on your system.
Learn some tips for using solar or wind power systems in your RV or boat - and what's different about this application from using one of these systems in your home.
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.
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.
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.
Every solar panel is rated to produce a certain wattage, voltage and amperage under specific conditions. Learn more about how modules earn these ratings and what factors affect energy production.
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.
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.
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.
Wind turbine systems for homes are one of the more cost effective forms of generating electricity from a renewable energy source if you have the right site.
Wind power works very well on its own or in tandem with solar PV - under the right circumstances. Find out how to determine if wind power is right for you.
Solar-powered pumps provide a welcome alternative to fuel-burning engines, windmills, and hand pumps. They produce best during sunny weather, when the need for water is greatest.
Homes from north Texas to Canada are using solar heaters in conjunction with their normal heating system to reduce their yearly heating bills by as much as 30% - 40%.
Water heating accounts for a substantial portion of energy use at many residential, commercial, institutional, and federal facilities - so it's important that it be done efficiently.
