COMPONENTS OF A SOLAR SYSTEM
Whenever you consider installing a solar energy system in your home, one of the many questions you ask is: “What component parts will I need to complete my solar power project?” Instead of cracking your brain to get the answers or attempting to connect them together on your roof all by yourself, it will help you if you consult a professional to properly guide you in setting up your system. However, aside time, tools and instructions, let’s give you a look at the components required for your solar power system.
• SOLAR PANELS – This is the basic element that converts sun rays into electric current. They come in different power ratings; 10W - 250W, etc. There are plenty of commercially available panels to choose from. Many individual panels are wired together to make larger solar arrays.
• SOLAR ARRAY DISCONNECT – This is basically just an electrical switch but is an important part of the system. It allows you to disconnect and cut-off the DC power output from your solar panels and array should any repairs be required or if there is a problem with the solar system. This disconnect switch needs to be strong enough to handle the full power output from the panels on a bright sunny day.
• BATTERY CHARGE CONTROLLER – Most home solar systems are built with a battery backup included for when the sun does not shine such as on dull days or at night. The battery charge controller ensures that a consistent amount of electrical power is sent to the batteries so that they are not over charged, and to ensure that the backup batteries do not discharge back through the system at night. In many ways this component is similar to your automotive battery charger so will not be too expensive.
• BATTERIES – In order to store the solar power generated by your solar panels, your solar system will need deep cycle batteries. Deep cycle batteries are not the same as shallow charge car batteries which are designed with thinner lead plates. Deep cycle storage batteries for solar systems are more robust and are designed for the type of charging and discharging cycles they need to endure. New deep cycle batteries are expensive but reconditioned batteries are cheaper.
• POWER METER (VERY OPTIONAL) – I am listing this one here as its inclusion will give you a clear way to see how much free solar power is being supplied to your home from your solar panels. Having a system power meter also helps you improve your system to gain the maximum efficiency from your solar installation as well as having the advantage of letting your neighbours know how much money your solar system is saving you from your Power Distribution companies (BEDC, EEDC, PhED, etc).
• SOLAR INVERTER – Your solar panels generate DC power, whereas you home appliances use AC power. The solar inverter therefore does the DC to AC conversion making it usable by your appliances. There are many types of inverters in the market; square – wave, sine – wave and modified wave inverters but a good quality 1200W (1.2kW or 1.2kVA) inverter likely won’t cost you more than N70,000. Interesting! Isn’t it?
• BACKUP GENERATOR – This is necessary when the sun does not shine (especially some days in the rainy season) and when the batteries are empty. Most systems will include some sort of backup power which would ordinarily be a petrol or diesel generator (your normal home generator). The utility (PHCN) if available at that moment can also do the job.
• WIRES/CABLES
Therefore whether you use other sources of electric power, you will discover that using solar energy to power your home can be easier and cheaper than you think.
Consider calling us today for consultation or inquiries on 08089016046. We are always ready to offer you better and more affordable power options in the face of incessant power outages.
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