Wind Turbine Generators

Do you dream of being energy-independent? Then living "off-grid" might be ideal for you. Many people who live off grid are located in rural locations where electric utility service is not even available. But a growing number of people are looking at it as a personal lifestyle option.

There are a couple of important factors involved in living off-grid. First, you'll need to learn how to use your electricity more mindfully.  You won't have to live without it, but you don't want to waste it, either.

Second, you'll want to familiarize yourself with how your solar energy system works, and what type of maintenance it requires. It's advantageous to become somewhat of an expert on your individual system so you could troubeshoot any problem that arises. Becoming an "pro" won't be too hard considering the large amount of available information on solar energy. However, it can require a bit of your time and commitment.

Typically, an off-grid system consists of nine components

1. The photovoltaic array and mounting rack. Wikipedia describes the array as "a linked collection of photovoltaic modules, which are in turn made of multiple interconnected solar cells". The mounting rack is what attaches the array to the roof.

2, the array DC disconnect. This is basically a breaker between the array and the rest of the system.  It allows you to disconnect from the system in order to troubleshoot problems with the array.

3 the charge controller prevents the batteries from overcharging.

4, the battery bank stores excess electricity. Because there will be cloudy periods when sunlight is unable to reach your solar cells, you will need about 2 to 3 days worth of stored electricity

5. The system meter. The system meter works like the dashboard of your car. It reports how the various components in your system are performing.

See How You Can Benefit From Off-Grid Solar Energy

6, is the main DC disconnect. This breaker is connected from the batteries to the inverter.

7, is the inverter. This component converts the DC electricity that was generated by the solar cells into the AC (alternating current) electricity that can run your household appliances.

8, the AC breaker panel. This is the same kind of breaker panel that the power company uses to connect your house wiring to its electrical source.

9. The backup generator. This is in case you have a stretch of overcast days that outlast the electricity stored in the batteries. You can use traditional fossil fuels, but you may want to use biodiesel to support your green lifestyle.

Now that you've seen the components of the solar power system, you can understand why it's not that difficult to become your own expert. Each component is pretty simple in and of itself. The only motorized parts are in the backup generator, and you hopefully won't be using that very much.

However, you might consider using magnets... this age old lost technology may yet prove to be the most effective and cost-saving alternative to alternative energy yet. Read the review on the: Magniwork Generator

-
About the Author:
We strive to build a future for the generations to come. And more of us are asking, "how can I influence the future of our planet" Environmental issues play a vital roll: See how you can play your part with the: Magniwork Generator
Article Source

Tags: Alternative Energy, Generator, Off Grid, Solar Energy, Solar Power