Resources; Solar Energy and Power Facts, Figures and Guidelines

2006 World Energy Sources (International Energy Agency) - figures rounded

Other includes Geo-thermal 0.4% - Wind 0.06% and Solar 0.04%

Grid Connect Solar Electricity Guidelines

3 Reasons Why People Choose to Install Grid Connect Solar Electricity

1. To zeroise or reduce energy bills
2. To use clean energy and help the environment
3. To provide a back up for power outages

5 Points to Consider At The Outset

1. What is my budget and am I eligible to apply for any subsidies or grants in my area?
2. Is my site suitable and safe to carry my solar power system?
3. How much roof area is available?
4. Are any shadows likely to fall on the solar array?
5. The aesthetics of the installed system

Why Should I Undertake An Energy Audit Before I Start?

1. To identify potential energy use reductions and save money.
2. To identify inefficient electrical appliances to be replaced with new energy efficient models
3. To identify any old electric hot water heaters to be replaced with solar or hybrid solar/gas hot water heating
4. To identify any energy inefficient lighting to be replaced with new energy efficient lighting equipment.

3 Typical Size Limits For New Grid Connect Solar Power Systems

1. Size determined by my annual energy use
2. Size limited by available roof space
3. Size limited by my budget

Sizing Your New Solar Electric System

1. Check your last 12 months electricity accounts or estimate your average annual energy usage in kwh
2. Reduce your kwh figure allowing for reductions due to changing to using more energy efficient equipment and living a more energy conscious lifestyle
3. Allow for future additional loads increase to determine your design kwh
4. Consult an accredited solar power system designer. Your system designer will size the array typically by first checking your kwh figure and correctly allowing for the following
1. Inverter efficiency (typically 90%)–(kwh x 0.9)
2. Solar radiation data for your location, tilt, angle & direction to the sun (typically 0.9 x kwh divided by typically 5 peak solar hours = required wattage)
3. Manufacturer’s solar panel tolerance (typically +/- 5%)( derate by 5%)
4. Effects of temperature and dirt (typically derate by 5%)
5. Ensure your inverter is adequately sized. Your designer will size the inverter allowing for
1. The maximum energy output of the array
2. A potential future increase in the size of the array
3. Matching the module configuration to the inverter
4. Decide whether to provide one inverter or multiple inverters

Undersizing inverters usually leads to operating problems. One central inverter is usually the cheaper option but multiple inverters provide more flexible systems.

Always Use A Licensed Electrician To Connect Up Your System

Mains power electricity is dangerous. A licensed electrician must always be used to safely connect up mains power electricity and ensure compliance with local and national regulations and your power suppliers requirements.

Typical Power Consumptions of Some Low Energy Home & Office Equipment