Where Do I Start with Solar Panels and Storage Batteries?

WindChaser05
WindChaser05 Registered Users Posts: 2 ✭
in General Solar Power Topics #1
I’m completely new to solar power and energy storage, and I’m thinking about installing some solar panels and a battery system for my home. I’m not really sure where to begin – there’s a lot of info out there and it’s a bit overwhelming. Any tips or stuff I should watch out for as a beginner? Thanks a ton!
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  • BB.
    BB. Super Moderators, Administrators Posts: 33,680 admin
    #2
    You have to tell us a bit more about your needs... Where (do you have lots of sun, little shade), how much energy do you use in a day/month/etc. (kWatt*Hours), are you doing this to save money, are you doing this for emergency power, do you have the money (solar is not cheap), can you do this safely (solar, battery, wiring, etc. all can be sources of fire if not done correctly, if not done to code could cause your home insurance to not pay out on a claim, etc.)....

    -Bill
    Near San Francisco California: 3.5kWatt Grid Tied Solar power system+small backup genset
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  • WindChaser05
    WindChaser05 Registered Users Posts: 2 ✭
    #3
    BB. said:
    You have to tell us a bit more about your needs... Where (do you have lots of sun, little shade), how much energy do you use in a day/month/etc. (kWatt*Hours), are you doing this to save money, are you doing this for emergency power, do you have the money (solar is not cheap), can you do this safely (solar, battery, wiring, etc. all can be sources of fire if not done correctly, if not done to code could cause your home insurance to not pay out on a claim, etc.)....

    -Bill
    Hey, thanks for getting back to me! I’ve got my solar panels already—four 400W panels, so 1600W total. Right now, I’m considering pick up a 51.2V 200Ah battery pack from Docan. Is this one: https://www.docanpower.com/china-stock/lifepo4-battery-pack/51-2v-200ah-230ah-10-11kwh-plug-play-lifepo4-battery-pack-wall-floor-mounted. I’ve checked out a few shops, and this one’s price feels like it fits my budget best. Could you take a peek and let me know if it’s a solid choice? Or, if you’ve got any other battery packs you’d recommend instead, I’m all ears. Appreciate your input!
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  • JRHill
    JRHill Registered Users Posts: 409 ✭✭✭✭
    #4
    Does anyone think that technical capabilities are as important as they once were? It was a given you had to be a cross between an electrician and a programmer to manage an off grid system in times past. I don't think it's as much these days but instead having a system that someone can manage/operate in your absence.

    Like turn key, hands off. It just works. Grid connected and off grid is a huge difference, in my opinion.
    Off Grid. Two systems: 1) 2925w panels, OB VFXR3648, FM80, FNDC, Victron BMV-712, Mate3s, 240 xformer, four SimpliPHI 3.8; 2) 780w, Morningstar 30a, Grundfos switch, controller and AC/DC pump, 8 T105. Honda EU7000is w/AGS. Champion 3100. HF 4550, Miller Bobcat.
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