- In recent years, solar energy has gained popularity as a viable solution for providing power to off-grid locations. The most common solar energy system consists of photovoltaic (PV) panels mounted on rooftops, poles or ground racks. PV panels (modules) consist of multiple solar cells wired together to form an array. The sun striking the cells results in the creation of direct current electricity. Installers wire the array to a charge controller, which protects the batteries from overcharging. It also keeps the system from draining the batteries too low and damaging the units.
An inverter converts direct current (DC) electricity to alternating current (AC), which can power many everyday appliances. The cost-effectiveness of solar energy depends on the amount of available sunlight exposure, since the system only generates energy when the sun shines. - Some property owners select wind turbines to provide off-grid power. The basic components of a wind turbine include a tower, generator, brakes and batteries. The tower must stand at least 30 feet higher than surrounding structures, trees and other possible obstructions. The system must face the direction of the wind to draw kinetic energy (i.e., the motion of the wind), which turns the generator. Wires connected to the generator run from the tower to a battery rack. The system connects to an inverter and then to a distribution panel.
The size of the wind turbine determines how much power the system can generate. For example, a 400-watt system can service a small number of everyday appliances and a 10,000-watt turbine can generate enough energy to power most homes. - Micro hydro electricity requires a source of water from a river or stream to produce electricity. Water flows from a high level to a low level, which generates the necessary pressure, or head, to rotate a turbine located at the bottom of the system. The availability of 24-hour-a-day flowing water makes this option more cost-effective than solar or wind. According to the Energy Alternatives Ltd. Website, micro hydo electricity creates 10 to 100 times the power of a photovoltaic or wind system for the same investment.
- Many people supplement their off-grid power systems with fossil fuel-based generators. Fuels used with these units include propane, gasoline or diesel. These units ensure a source of power when the primary system, usually a wind or solar power generation unit, cannot produce power. Gasoline generators are expensive to operate and produce toxic emissions. Propane generators can provide heat, but most do not provide electricity.
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