Independent Residential Solar Power System

If you don't like it when the lights go out...

...an Independent Residential Solar Power System might just be...

the answer you're looking for.

For blackout protection and more remote applications an Independent Residential Solar Power System is the only way to go.

Independent systems are completely self sustaining, requiring only a sunny location in which to mount the panels along with the components listed below.

When properly installed, the components of the system collect, regulate, store and distribute the sun's energy.

Independent Residential Solar Power System

• Solar Array (group of solar panels)



• Charge controller (regulator)



• Deep Cycle Batteries



• Inverter



• Assorted hardware, wire and connectors

The Solar Array is situated in a sunny location that is exposed to sunlight for as much of the day as possible.

The roof usually fits these criteria although many users of an Independent Residential Solar Power System secure panels to posts , walls or the ground.

The solar panels collect sunlight as 12 volt (DC) energy which is transported to and stored by the deep cycle batteries.

In this form the energy will run any appliance or device that uses 12 volt power or that has a plug that fits into a vehicle cigarette lighter. 12 volt power does NOT run most household appliances or electronics.

Mostly, households use 110 volt (AC) power and that's where the inverter comes in. An inverter converts the power from 12 volt to 110 volt for use in your home.

The charge controller (regulator) prevents the batteries from over or under charging. Situated between the solar array and batteries, the regulator significantly extends the life of the battery bank.

The cost of an Independent Residential Solar Power System depends on a couple of things:

• How much energy your household uses.
  Your Energy company calculates this in KWH (kilowatt hours) and charges you (usually a percentage of a cent) per KWH. Select the month with the highest useage when determining energy consumption. Most 2 bedroom homes use between 20 and 40 KWH's per day.
  
  
  

  
  Reduce your household energy consumption with these handy tips.
  
  Check out our strategies for designing an energy efficient home




• Available subsidies.Grants and subsidies are available in numerous areas some for as much as 100% of your purchase price.
  
  If you live in the United States Check Here for government subsidies available in your area.



• How much energy you are converting to solar.
  Whether you want to solar power an entire household or just take care of your home's water heating needs. Every bit makes a difference, to you and to the environment.

If you're building a new house you're in a great position to make some decisions now that will reduce the home's energy needs throughout it's life. Check out North Carolina's Solar House for a look at a solar power home that's been functional for decades.

Note the details they've incorporated while building that make the house more energy efficient overall.

The more energy efficient your house is in all respects the fewer panels you'll need.

If a Grid Tied Residential Solar Power System is an option for you, it's worth a look.