As solar energy technology becomes known in the residential level, homeowners begin to seek specific information on the simplest home solar energy system they can install. The simplest and functional System is pursued because of a common perception that it is likewise the cheapest and the best way “ to test the water “.This is a major consideration for the average homeowner since the System entails additional budget in its construction. Having identified a solar energy system, a homeowner may want to know its established benefits , how to upgrade it and at what cost.. This article will deal with these concerns.
The simplest and cheapest home solar energy source is the Grid –Tied Home Solar System . As the name implies, the home remains connected with the utility company. The basic structure includes 10 to 15 solar panels, inverter, control electronics, electrical wiring and solar panel mounting base. When built as a DIY project, a homeowner can finish the model panel on a weekend. This will serve as a guide as more solar panels are made to complete the System. Solar energy is is an established and proven technology.
The simplest Home Solar System will generate the electricity needs of the household and if this is not enough, what is lacking is supplied by the utility company. This is the reason for the home remaining grid-tied. If the sole purpose is to save on electricity bills, this System is fitted for the home. Savings of up to 60% can be realized. On the other hand as the System generates more power than needed, the excess electricity is used to offset electricity consumption or sold to the utility company. The law ( Public Utility Regulatory Policy Act ) requires utility companies to buy excess renewable energy from home producers .
The disadvantage of this System is that when grid electricity is down, the home does not have electricity. This is where the need for upgrading becomes necessary – there should be a guarantee of electricity supply 24 hours a day. All that is needed to have this guarantee is to add batteries to the System. The batteries will provide power when grid electricity is down. This upgraded System is called Grid Tied Home Solar System with Battery Back up. The upgrading process is simple and inexpensive. And if there is an increase in the electricity loads in the home, more solar panels may be added.
A Grid - Tied Home Solar System with Battery Back up will give the following advantages:
1. savings of up to 60% in monthly electricity bills
2. uninterrupted electricity supply even if grid power is down
3. not affected by grid electricity rate increase in years ahead
4. extra income with excess electricity sold to the grid
5. free electricity after 2 years ( with the savings, the System pays for itself in 2 year )
6. increased home value
7. You become a solution to the growing energy crisis and global pollution problem.
The Grid- Tied Home Solar System with Battery Back up is used by thousands of homeowners across the country. It is highly recommended and can be easily built with a DIY Solar Energy Kit. You can build one today.
Cinto Deverde is a strong advocate of renewable energy. Having graduated from the University of the Philippines with Biological Science degree he had been involved in recycling of natures products and the movement to harness the power of the sun. He remains a dedicated proponent of solar energy and writes to encourage solar energy adoption in homes.< Visit him at the Solar Info Blog for more practical and useful solar energyarticles.
