Connecting Your PV System
WARNING!
Local electrical inspectors and many electrical contractors in North America are still unfamiliar with off-grid systems: it is wise to consult an expert before committing to a system.
WARNING!
Local electrical inspectors and many electrical contractors in North America are still unfamiliar with off-grid systems: it is wise to consult an expert before committing to a system.
Besides the NEC/CEC rules, every electrical appliance requires a Part 2 product standard certification if it operates at either 120V or 240V (AC). If safety is a consideration, this requirement also applies to appliances of lower voltage, such as battery power tools.
Two necessities for safety (and to comply with local and national electrical codes) are to have excess current protection and a means of disconnection on all voltage sources in any ungrounded conductor. This includes all connections between the PV array, batteries, wind turbine and inverter. Almost all AC sources have some form of protection and means of disconnection in any home or appliance wiring. Even the inverter and generator have their own circuit breaker or certified fuse device.
Would it surprise you to know that the price you pay for fossil fuels could be as little as 20% of their real cost? That's because they're often subsidised by the government. Cynics would say that this is to keep prices low and ensure that business keeps booming for the people who control the resources and, in many ways, history shows they're right.
When your wind turbine, site location and tower are selected, installation planning comes in. Setting up a small wind turbine can be dangerous and taxing even for the most skilled mechanic or contractor.
Many people who consider installing renewable energy systems in their homes are put off by the relatively high investment. Why would you choose a solar thermal system that could cost thousands of dollars when you can buy an electric water heater for a couple hundred?