A home off grid solar power system is an energy-efficient way to provide power for your household. These systems use solar panels to produce electricity and a battery storage solution to store the excess energy.
The battery storage solution converts DC current from the batteries into AC for your appliances. It also includes DC and AC safety disconnects.
Cost
The cost of off grid solar will vary based on the type of system and components you install. A typical off grid solar-plus-storage system costs between $30,000 to $60,000. This includes solar panels, backup batteries, and an inverter that converts DC power to AC to run your home appliances.
The installation process accounts for about 10% of the total cost. If you’re interested in off grid solar but can’t afford a full cash purchase, consider applying for solar incentives at the federal, state, and local level.
A good way to estimate how much an off grid solar system will cost is by comparing the cost of individual components. The most expensive component of an off-grid solar system is the battery system, followed by the solar panels, and then the inverter. Other costs include labor, which varies based on the complexity and size of the solar system you install. These costs can add up quickly, so it’s important to get quotes from multiple installers to compare prices.
Benefits
Some homeowners wish to live independently from the power grid. This can be especially true for home shoppers who have their heart set on a property in rural areas where it’s expensive to extend city power lines.
Solar panels generate electricity by absorbing the sun’s light through photovoltaic cells that lay between layers of semiconducting material like silicon. This creates direct current that passes through a solar charge controller, which then converts it into alternating current that can be used by your household or stored in a battery system.
A grid-tied solar energy system will send any excess electricity into the power grid, which is then compensated by your utility company using a program called net metering. This credits your account with kilowatt-hours that you can draw from at any time without incurring additional charges on your electricity bill. This is a great way to reduce your dependence on the grid and still be able to take advantage of lower electricity rates.
Installation
When you want to go off grid, the initial installation process can seem complicated.
But if you break it down, it isn’t that hard to do on your own. The key is to know your energy needs and purchase the appropriate equipment. In addition, replacing energy-hogging appliances and removing power draining items will help.
The first step is calculating your electricity usage to determine how many solar panels you need. Next, you need to purchase solar batteries to store energy. Once you have the necessary components, you can begin assembling your system. Finally, you will need to check with your utility company to see what net metering options are available. This is a great option to take advantage of savings on your electricity bills and even get paid for any excess energy you send back to the grid. You can also opt for a hybrid system, which stays tied to the grid but includes battery backup.
Maintenance
While solar panels aren’t the largest expense of an off grid solar Nerang system they are a critical component and shouldn’t be overlooked. If you choose to work with a professional installer like Paradise Energy, you will be able to get a Triple Ten Guarantee for your equipment which covers all costs that go above and beyond manufacturer warranties.
The best way to keep your off grid solar powered home running efficiently is by performing regular maintenance and inspections. These tasks should include checking your safety disconnects and grounding equipment as well as examining and cleaning battery terminals. It’s also a good idea to consult the owner manual for any equipment you’re working with and check for model specific maintenance tips.
An off grid solar system consists of solar panels that generate direct current (DC) power that is stored in a battery bank. This power then passes through an inverter to convert it to alternating current (AC) that can be used by your household appliances.
