Choosing Solar Power
How It Works
Energy from sunlight causes electrons in the cells of photovoltaic panels (solar panels) to move in a higher stage of energy and create electricity. The solar panels are often connected together to form a solar array. The direct current (DC) produced from the solar array can then be used to power DC loads, charge batteries or can be changed to AC power through an inverter for conventional use.
Where Can It Be Installed
Solar arrays can be installed on your roof, the ground, as a carport, or canopy, used to cover a parking lot, awnings for buildings, or many other creative locations. For maximum production, the solar panels should be tilted or installed on a sloped roof. They should face south to capture the most amount of sunlight through the year. Contact your local building department or homeowners association to find out what type of laws or regulations may limit your installation.
Choosing Wind Power
How It Works
Energy from the wind is converted into electricity. The wind is used to turn the blades of a wind turbine. The blades are attached either vertically or horizontally to a turbine axis, which causes rotation inside the turbine. This rotational energy is then converted into electrical energy.
Where Can It Be Installed
Wind turbines can be installed using a monopole or lattice tower. They range in size from 1 kW to 5 MW and the installation will be dependent on the size of the turbine as well as laws and regulations in place by your local government and/or homeowners association. Typically it's recommended that your turbine should be installed at least 30' above any surrounding buildings or trees within a 500' radius and that it is located at least 1.1 times the height of the turbine away from surrounding property lines or structures.
Hybrid Systems
A hybrid system consists of implementing the combination of one or more renewable energy technologies to provide electricity. An example of a hybrid system would be the combination of solar power, wind power and batteries such as that in the Guernsey County example (see Case Studies page — Guernsey County). Solar power and wind power systems compliment each other well. A solar power system typically will produce peak power in the summer months when the sun is out longer and more often. The summer however, is normally when there is the least amount of wind available. Conversely, the winter months often provide a lot of wind and little sun. During this time, the wind turbine will produce its maximum power. As a result, the implementation of both solar and wind power will offer a much more consistent flow of renewable energy into your facility or home.
Utility Interconnection and Battery-Based Systems
Interconnection
Either solar or wind power systems can be grid-tied or battery based. In grid-tied systems, the AC power is connected to the electrical system of the building or residence. This power is then used to supplement the electrical requirements of the facility or home. If excess electricity is produced from the renewable energy system, that power is fed back into the electrical utility grid via net metering. Visit http://www.puco.ohio.gov/PUCO/Consumer/Information.cfm?id=8510 for more information about net metering.
Battery-based or stand-alone systems are not connected to the utility grid and the power from the renewable energy system(s) is stored in batteries for use as needed.