There are ten different components that make up a solar powered generating system. Of course you don’t have to use all them. You can pick and choose depending on what type of system you want to end up with.
Just to emphasize that point. For example, we talk about having a diesel generator as a back-up system, but you don’t to have to start off with one, and you can add it at a later date if you think it is necessary.
PV Solar Panels
The PV solar panels are positioned so they get maximum sunlight throughout the day, and they turn sunlight into solar electric power. Unfortunately, they produce DC power, so we have to change this to AC power. Go crazy and build loads of solar panels because you can connect an unlimited amount together. Follow this link find out more about how to build a solar panel.
The panels are linked together inline. One follows the next one, a bit like a string of fairy lights in contrast to being connected together on an adhoc basis. The more panels you have, the more energy you produce.
DC Disconnect
You want you solar panels connected to a Direct Current (DC) disconnect. This is a vital piece of kit as it switches off the electricity generated by your solar panels. This now allows to carryout maintenance on any other part of your system.
Electric Charge Controller
If you are using a battery bank to store any unused electricity then I strongly suggest you fit a charge controller to your system. This prevents your batteries from becoming over charged, which can damage them.
Battery Bank
Be careful about what type of batteries you use to store electricity. You want to use deep cycle batteries like the ones they use in forklift trucks. Do not use car batteries.
Keep the batteries warm, that way they work better. If you don’t have room in the house for them, make them a shelter outside, never leave them exposed. A battery box is also a good investment, they keep your batteries at a good temperature and also protect them from accidental damage.
System Metering
Your solar system meter is, in effect, your dashboard. It tells you the amount of electricity you are generating, consuming and how much is stored in your batteries. Without a system meter, you are working blind.
DC Disconnect to the Main Supply
You only need this if you have a battery backup as it turns of the electricity from them. You want to locate it between your battery and your alternating current and direct current inverter. Again it is very handy if you want to do any systems maintenance.
AC DC Inverter
Both the battery bank and the solar cells generate a direct current. The problem is, many if not all your electrical gadgets in the home use an alternating current. We convert DC to AC using the inverter and so all your electrical home appliances work without any problems.
Generator
There are various types of electric generators to choose from. If you live in a house that does not have an electric utility supplier then this is a good option to add to your system. The electrical generator can provide a backup to your solar powered system should it be down for maintenance or if the batteries are low.
Alternating Current Breaker Panel
If you have a utility supplier, you will have a AC breaker panel. This is where the electricity from the national grid enters your home. Every house has one of these; however, you are not allowed to touch it. You have to get the electric company to come along and wire it up for you.
Whatever you do, do not wire it up yourself. You can get into a lot of trouble, and it isn’t worth the hassle. The utility company will find out in the end..
KW per Hour Meter
As with the breaker panel, you will also have a KWH meter. The meter measures your electric usage and your bill is calculated based on the figures from this meter. So if you send power back to the grid, this will go in reverse.
Video on Different Aspects Of Building Your Own Solar Panel
Learning to build a solar panel is the first step. The second step is to design a system that will work in your home. Go to build a solar panel and learn all you need to know about building the right system for your house.
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