| For a free consultation call us at (480) 813-4767 |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| Total Solar LLC. PO Box 266. Gilbert, AZ 85266 T: 480-459-8015 F: 480-659-8025 www.totalsolaraz.com Information & Support: info@totalsolaraz.com |
Grid v.s. Off -Grid systems
Grid-tied systems
The systems we install are connected to the electricity 'grid'. The grid is the infrastructure that connects all homes and businesses to
electricity generating plants. In fact, after installing solar panels on your house or business your system becomes a 'plant' also.
Unfortunately the electricity grid in the USA is not build with the intend to save as much energy as possible. The whole system is based
on the maximum power that could be needed at any point in time. Have you ever thought about what would happen if everybody would
ask for more electricity than all plants combined are able to generate? Well, that actually never happens because the electricity capacity
is way over-measured. Hopefully the State and Federal Governments will be able to implement a 'smart grid' one day, that actually
brings power where it is needed at times that it is needed.
Off-Grid systems
These systems are - as the name says - not connected to the utility grid but store the electricity that is generated in batteries so that it
can be used at a later time. If you need these kind of systems, please consult a company that is specialized in off-grid systems.
Influences on solar power performance
One would think that Arizona is the optimal place for solar power, and it probably is. However, when solar panels get real hot, their
output lowers. So it is not always beneficial to have the high temperatures that the Phoenix area enjoys. Compared to southern
California, the output of solar panels in Phoenix is still about 10% higher in spite of the loss because of the heat.
Another very important factor is the orientation of the surface on which the panels are mounted. Although it is like sunshine is
everywhere on the roof, solar panels produce most energy when the sun-rays are perpendicular to the surface of the panels. Therefore,
a roof surface facing south and in an angle between 15% to 30% is the best option.
Shading influences the power output significantly. Just a small shading area on one or a few solar cells will dramatically lower the
output. Trees, pipes, chimneys, roof edges, other buildings or any shape that can cause a shade on the panels needs to be avoided.
Keeping the panels clean is very important. Dust and particles will hinder the sun-light and will reduce output. Regular washing the
panels is advised
Grid-tied systems
The systems we install are connected to the electricity 'grid'. The grid is the infrastructure that connects all homes and businesses to
electricity generating plants. In fact, after installing solar panels on your house or business your system becomes a 'plant' also.
Unfortunately the electricity grid in the USA is not build with the intend to save as much energy as possible. The whole system is based
on the maximum power that could be needed at any point in time. Have you ever thought about what would happen if everybody would
ask for more electricity than all plants combined are able to generate? Well, that actually never happens because the electricity capacity
is way over-measured. Hopefully the State and Federal Governments will be able to implement a 'smart grid' one day, that actually
brings power where it is needed at times that it is needed.
Off-Grid systems
These systems are - as the name says - not connected to the utility grid but store the electricity that is generated in batteries so that it
can be used at a later time. If you need these kind of systems, please consult a company that is specialized in off-grid systems.
Influences on solar power performance
One would think that Arizona is the optimal place for solar power, and it probably is. However, when solar panels get real hot, their
output lowers. So it is not always beneficial to have the high temperatures that the Phoenix area enjoys. Compared to southern
California, the output of solar panels in Phoenix is still about 10% higher in spite of the loss because of the heat.
Another very important factor is the orientation of the surface on which the panels are mounted. Although it is like sunshine is
everywhere on the roof, solar panels produce most energy when the sun-rays are perpendicular to the surface of the panels. Therefore,
a roof surface facing south and in an angle between 15% to 30% is the best option.
Shading influences the power output significantly. Just a small shading area on one or a few solar cells will dramatically lower the
output. Trees, pipes, chimneys, roof edges, other buildings or any shape that can cause a shade on the panels needs to be avoided.
Keeping the panels clean is very important. Dust and particles will hinder the sun-light and will reduce output. Regular washing the
panels is advised
How it works
There are three main components that work together
to make a typical solar electric system work:
1. Solar Panels
2. Solar Inverter
3. Electric meter
There are three main components that work together
to make a typical solar electric system work:
1. Solar Panels
2. Solar Inverter
3. Electric meter
1) Solar Panels. Sunlight falls on the
modules, which contain silicon solar cells.
The energy in the sunlight is absorbed by
the cells and frees electrons which flow
along the array wiring. Electricity is the flow
of electrons.
modules, which contain silicon solar cells.
The energy in the sunlight is absorbed by
the cells and frees electrons which flow
along the array wiring. Electricity is the flow
of electrons.
2) Solar inverter. The electric current made
by the solar modules enters the inverter and
is changed from direct current (DC) to
alternate current (AC), the type of electricity
used by homes and business in America.
3) Electric meter. An electric meter is a
device that measures the amount of
electricity supplied or produced by a home.
You already have an electric meter. After
installing a solar electric system, your meter
will measure the difference between the
amount of electricity used versus the amount
of electricity produced by your system
(source: Sharp)
1.
2.
3.