Sorry to go off-topic here, although there is a computer-related
issue at the end of all this.
I'm hoping WAMUG members may have some information and/or experience
with installing and using individual residence renewable grid-
connected power systems. I'm looking at putting the largest solar
array I can afford on our roof (4 or 5 kW) to both supply our own
electricity needs and sell back excess to the SW grid when the sun is
shining, and purchase energy as needed when the sun is not out/at night.
We live in Albany (where despite myth the sun shines quite a lot) on
a due north-facing hillside with over 100 square metres of roof area
angled at 20 degrees, so the physical circumstances are positive. We
already practice such energy reduction strategies as a 6-person
household with a keen interest in electrical gadgetry comfortably
support, but more work can be done on this. High energy demand
activities such as cooking and hot water are supplied by gas (solar
hot water is next on the upgrade list).
As some of you will know, a government rebate of 50% of the ex-GST
cost of qualifying systems makes this worth considering (although
don't do it just on economic grounds since because we don't pay the
real impact cost of electricity you will grow very old and grey
waiting to recoup all your outlay - we are doing this as a "walking
the talk" greenhouse gas reduction initiative.) - there is a lot of
information at http://www1.sedo.energy.wa.gov.au/pages/funding_rrep.asp
and info on Synergy's buyback scheme at
http://www.synergyenergy.com.au/pdf_documents/Support_Documents/
RENEWABLE_ENERGY_BUYBACK_SCHEME_%28REBS%29_INFORMATION_PACK.pdf
What I want to know is if anyone is prepared to share their
experience - any unanticipated problems, unexpected costs, and what
user experience is like of installation, commissioning, and using
such a system? A particular question is the relative "inertness"/
safety of the materials used in the manufacture and mounting of the
array with respect to water, as we collect all the water that falls
on our roof for domestic consumption, including drinking and cooking.
No worries with supply (it rains a lot down here, even with climate
change trends) but we do want to ensure that the water is safe.
And the computer connections? The smart inverters used to convert and
control the electricity generated have an output to a data logger and
computer so you can track performance, output, trends, efficiency etc
in all kinds of classy graphs, charts etc. As well I am thinking of
smart programming to control shut down of non-essential electricity
outlets in the event of grid blackouts, thus prolonging the battery
bank life for essentials such as lighting and refrigeration.
Thanks in anticipation.
Tony Evers
Community Mental Health Educator
"Supporting The Transition To Parenthood"
PO Box 5075
Albany WA 6332
ph 08 9844 6317
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Take a moment to consider - am I confusing wants with needs?
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