Source - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stand-alone_power_system
As we continue to increase our dependencies on gadgets and appliances in our day-to-day lives, our energy requirements have also proportionally increased. Depending on where you are located, you have a variety of options to meet these energy demands. One such promising option is the standalone solar photovoltaic (SSPV) system. It offers many benefits over other sources of energy, but also comes with its share of limitations. Let's explore.
What is a standalone solar PV system?
It is any contraption that can convert sunlight into usable electricity and does not rely on the electric grid to meet your requirements. SSPVs comprise of several components that come together to help you fulfil your energy needs. Typically, an SSPV system features rechargeable batteries that store electricity for use during the night and periods of inadequate sunlight, such cloudy days, rainy days, fogs and dust storms.
What are the components of an SSPV system?
Apart from an array of solar panels that usually output anywhere between 50 to 100+ watts, an SSPV system features batteries that convert electrical energy into stored chemical energy for later usage. They may also feature a charge controller that regulates electricity within the system to avoid over or undercharging the batteries. Fuses and isolation switches protect against shorting the wires by isolating components from electricity when not in use. These systems also require an inverter to convert DC power from the solar arrays into AC, to power your household appliances. Bringing all these components together, the wiring plays a crucial role and has to be correctly rated for the application as well as the voltage.
What are the benefits of an SSPV system?
Before opting in for an SSPV system, one must take into account all of its benefits and shortcomings. These systems are ideal for remote locations such as rural areas or temporary campsites as well as portable applications like in an RV, a camper van, boats etc. They offer free solar power with zero dependencies on the grid and are oftentimes cheaper and less time-consuming than having an electric company extend their power lines into the location of your choice.
What are the limitations of an SSPV system?
While these systems can fill a crucial gap in your energy requirement, they also come with some limitations. They require a dedicated space to set up that must also receive sunlight that is unobstructed by adjacent structures. During periods of inadequate sunlight and the night, these systems solely rely on their batteries. Installing such a system may involve one to make certain lifestyle choices like performing all energy-intensive tasks during the day time, switching to energy-efficient appliances, periodic calculations to keep track of energy utilisation and reinforcing measures to keep all unwanted appliances off at all times when not in use.
If you are planning on going solar, consider all the factors like availability of sufficient land/space, weather conditions in your location, your energy requirements as well as your budget. These systems are easy to set up but do require regular maintenance. It is therefore important to familiarize yourself with how such a system works and what it takes to keep it up and running. A great place to start is getting in touch with a reputable standalone solar PV system provider. At Sterling and Wilson Solar, we endeavour to design and develop unique solar solutions to unique problems, utilising industry best-practices to fully support your energy requirements. Let's go solar together!
