DO IT YOURSELF SOLAR

 

DO IT YOURSELF PV SOLAR SYSTEM WITH BATTERY STORAGE.

By Jules Williams

Facilities Management.

5/11/2024

Setting up a do-it-yourself solar power system with a 10 KW capacity involves several logistical considerations to ensure efficiency and safety. Here's a breakdown of what would typically be involved in assembling and operating such a system:

1. Component Acquisition:

• Photovoltaic (PV) Panels: You'll need enough solar panels to generate 10 KW of power. The number and type of panels will depend on their efficiency and output.
• Controller and Voltage Regulator: These components manage the voltage and current coming from the panels to optimize charging the battery banks and prevent overcharging.
• Changeover Switch: This allows switching between 240V and 120V outputs,  to be able to transfer from solar system to utility power if solar power is not available, to meet the requirements of appliances or system requirements.
• Battery Banks: Two battery banks capable of storing enough power for 10 KW usage over 12 hours. The capacity and type of batteries (like lithium-ion or lead-acid) will impact cost, efficiency, and maintenance.
• Direct Current (DC) Cabling: Sufficient cabling to cover a 200 feet distance with adequate gauge to handle the current without significant power loss.

2. Site Assessment and Preparation:

• Evaluate the installation site for maximum sun exposure throughout the year.
• Consider potential shading from trees or buildings and plan the layout to minimize its impact.
• Ensure the mounting structure for the PV panels is stable and oriented for optimal sun exposure (typically south-facing in the northern hemisphere).

3. Installation and Wiring:

• Installation of panels on roofs, back yard or dedicated stands.
• Proper grounding of the system to avoid electrical hazards.
• Wiring of the panels to the controller and from the controller to the battery banks, ensuring all connections are secure and properly insulated.
• Installation of the changeover switch and connection to the internal power system.
• Implementation of safety measures, including circuit breakers and surge protection.

4. System Configuration and Testing:

• Configure the system settings according to manufacturer instructions for maximum efficiency.
• Perform initial testing to check voltage, current, and overall system performance.
• Adjust configurations as needed based on initial performance data.

5. Maintenance and Monitoring:

• Regular cleaning and inspection of panels to maintain optimal performance.
• Monitoring battery health and charge levels to ensure longevity and reliability.
• Check all electrical connections and components periodically for signs of wear or damage.

6. Legal and Compliance:

• Verify compliance with local codes and regulations concerning solar power systems, including permits and inspections.
• Ensure the system meets electrical safety standards.

7. Education and Support:

• Provide comprehensive manuals and training for customers to install and maintain their systems.
• Set up a support hotline or service for troubleshooting and technical assistance.

It is important that potential customers have a clear understanding of what installing a 10 KW DIY solar power system involves, enhancing their confidence in obtaining advisors who are trained and experienced to advise and assist  during the procurement, installation and operation  process to ensure clients understand the product and obtain knowledge of operation to successfully own and operate the system.

With AI becoming an unescapable reality, necessitating many more megawatts than ever demanded of power grills, also with environmental concerns of carbon accumulation, the need presents itself for do it your self-dedicated power systems. Battery technology has improved significantly over the years, and I am not referring to the production of battery banks designed to discourage self-installed systems.

I designed a 4 KW system complete with auto change over with battery backup, that provided power to a 6000 Square foot home throughout summer, with only 45% battery depletion overnight, using deep cycle batteries from battery stores.

Complicated equipment selection, and confusing designs are delaying the popularity of much capable and resilient solar systems. However, the progression of Large Language Modules like Chat GPT 4, and soon to be here Chat-GPT 5, will create added pressure on municipalities, cities, counties, and states to provide incentives for do it yourself home and business solar systems.