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Conceptually, solar-based electric systems are not that complex to understand. The technology
has been around for decades, yet it has not gained widespread acceptance or application by the public.
Things are beginning to change, and we are approaching a tipping point with the convergence of high
petroleum prices that will likely never return to the historic lows we were accustomed to, improvements
in renewable energy components, and more public awareness about renewable energy.
There are three common options in solar-electric systems:
- grid-intertied (or grid-connected)
- grid-intertied with battery backup
- off-grid (or standalone)
Understanding the basic components of a solar system and how they function together is a first step
in embracing the idea that renewable energy systems are viable alternatives or additions to on-grid
systems.
Benefits of Solar Power
The greatest benefit of solar power is that the source of the power is free--the sun. And some
of the other benefits are:
- Clean and green energy source, very environmentally friendly
- Quiet, almost silent operation
- Very reliable, with almost no maintenance costs
- Aids in reducing green house gases
- Long system life
- Nearly fixed cost of electricity for the life of the system
- Energy independence
Components of a Solar-Electric System
Since we at North Star Energy Services design and build systems that operate as standalone power
units (that are transportable), we will focus on the components necessary for for this type of
system. We will also discuss what it takes to tie one of our systems into the grid (as a
grid-intertied systems with battery backup).
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