GRID CONNECT SYSTEMS
The majority of large scale renewable energy installations are based on ‘Grid Connect’ systems.
Elsewhere in this section, we have concentrated on simple systems for Garages, Sheds, Stables, Farm Buildings and similar locations. These systems are all simple to install and operate and have key factors in common – the energy the system generates is used to charge a battery. The Battery then becomes the power source for the chosen function. This can be 12v Lighting , 12v Appliances, Pumps, Cattle Fencing, or any many other possibilities.
For larger installations up to several kilowatts, battery storage is no longer an option. The Battery Bank required would be huge and impracticable.
In these situations the answer is a ‘Grid Connect’ system. Using this method, the power generated is fed into the National Grid via Inverters. The power generated is logged on a credit meter and offset against your normal quarterly electricity bill.
The main requirement for ‘Grid Connect’ is that you need the consent of your electricity supplier and the installation and connections must be made by an approved contractor.
It is definitely NOT a DIY proposition !
The pictures show the ‘before’ and ‘after’ of a typical installation. In this case a 7 Kw solar Grid Connect system on a barn, using BP solar panels.
Also shown is the type of inverter array required for this type of system. This is the key function of the system where 12v solar power is converted to 240v and fed into the National Grid.
Alongside the inverters is a display showing carbon emissions saved by the system. In this case the installation was in an educational establishment where the children showed great interest in the benefits of ‘clean’ solar power generation. Visual displays, large or small, can be attached to most renewable energy systems and provide an important educational tool for the next generation
If you would like to know more about ‘Grid Connect’ systems, please call to talk over any ideas you may have for Solar, Wind Energy or Hybrid systems.
