Off-grid living has exploded in popularity in recent years. If you’re ready to live independently, an off-grid photovoltaic system in Canada could be the answer.
Continue reading to learn how to use off-grid solar power to avoid unexpected rate spikes, monthly energy bills, and fossil fuel consumption.
What exactly does it mean to live off the grid?
Off-grid solar is different in that it is completely independent of the electricity grid. In other words, when you implement an off-grid solar energy system, you will be completely cut off from the transmission line.
Understand that when you’re entirely off the grid, you won’t be able to access any electricity from the grid. Your residential solar system, on the other hand, will be built to produce enough electricity to suit your electricity needs.
When the sun isn’t shining, you’ll be entirely reliant on the backup storage provided by your batteries. This is why it is critical to precisely size your off-grid setup. Otherwise, you risk running out of power just when you most need it.
What you need to go off-grid.
Now we’ll look at the components that will be required in your solar system. To begin, every off-grid solar power system must include the four components listed below.
1. Solar panels
Solar panels, also known as modules, transform the energy in sunshine into electric current. They are categorized into two categories: polycrystalline and monocrystalline. With the recent significant drop in panel pricing, monocrystalline is now an easy and preferred choice.
2. Inverter
An inverter is used to convert the direct current (DC) from the cells into a consumable alternating current (AC). For optimum reliability and efficiency, an inverter with a pure sine wave supply is preferred among its various varieties.
3. Batteries
Batteries are in charge of storing electrical power. They are especially significant in an off-grid scenario since grid power cannot be obtained for usage during the nighttime and on overcast days.
4. The charge controller
This is an electrical component that regulates charge. It keeps track of the current flow from the cells to the batteries in order to maximize charging and efficiency.
Is there a permit required to go off-grid in Canada?
Depending on where you reside, you may need to obtain a permit before installing your residential solar system. And, before you begin building an off-grid solar panel system, please check the local requirements in your community.
