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CdnFirefighter
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# Posted: 6 Feb 2011 08:15am
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Here is my thoughts and aspirations. Looking at possibly buying vacant land and putting a cabin onto it. Throughout research the wind energy isn't applicable to many areas due to insufficient winds and only gusts to make power. What I am thinking on is a solar system with maybe a wind mill to supplement the power when winds are up. But was looking into an off grid generator of sorts, be either stand alone or of the 12 or 24 volt nature.. but wondering on the charging rate and if anyone has experience in this field. Family of 4 so will be a weekend retreat and possible summertime living.
Seen a few options like the Alten generators. They are 12 or 24 volt.. but wondering how they relate to a battery bank and if it is practical situation to look into. Many thanks.
Please post your comments as I am new to the idea and just planning a venture. Lots out there that I do not know, hence why I am here. =-)
J
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bushbunkie
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# Posted: 6 Feb 2011 08:42am
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Another Canuck pursuing the cabin dream...welcome!
There are a lot of really resourceful folks on this site...so I'm sure you'll get some good answers.
Also look through some of the other threads in the forum...there has been much discussion re. off grid options by others.
Being from Ontario...my main advice is know your bylaws...our province is very restrictive and controlling about what you can build.
Other provinces may be more lax.
Cheers.
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MtnDon
Member
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# Posted: 7 Feb 2011 02:56pm
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I'm not familiar with that generator. How much charging capacity you need depends on many variables. My PV system is larger than many people here need, but at the same time not big enough for others.
In order to select all the right parts for what you need in a PV and/or wind system, you need to determine how much power you will actually need. That is, how much energy you will use in an average 24 hour period as well as the maximum draw at any one time. Once you know that finding equipment to do the job becomes easier.
A well designed PV system will not require regular use of a generator. Personally, and this is just my preferences, I do not like have to depend on the generator for everyday tasks. Some people build a very small PV system and require a generator for microwave use for example.
Make a list of everything you need to power. Make another list of those things you also want, but are not absolute necessities. Then with the aid of a spreadsheet or online power calculator you can size the system. There are many if you look. Some are better than others. I wrote a spreadsheet you may find useful. It can be downloaded from HERE.
The two most common errors made by people designing their own systems are: 1. insufficient battery capacity and 2. insufficient PV module capacity
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