Solar users?

[montanamac]

Just curious how many there out there that are using solar panels to provide part or all of their electric needs.

What does everyone prefer when using Solar energy for electric use ... DC or AC? What do you think the advantages and disadvantages of each are?

What about the new "flexable" solar panels ... anyone have any firsthand knowledge of these?

Let's have some input ....

Mac

[jpf1030]

At present we have two 10 panel arrays of 130 watt panels for 2600 watts total. We have never used the system extensively, only using it during short power outages. We still have a bunch of debugging to get the system in fully functioning form. Our system is set up for providing AC power. We would be interested in setting up a little back-up 12VDC system...Jim

[montanamac]

One really good motivator to "get the bugs" out of your system ... simulate an extended power outage ... have someone turn the main disconnect from the grid off for 24 hours.

This will quickly bring to focus the areas of your backup system that need attention and the "life style adjustments" required by all.

I would suggest you select someone not living on your property be shown where the main disconnect is located and give them permission to "pull the plug" at some unscheduled future time. This will give the drill a "real life" emergency effect. This drill will turn the "talkin the talk" into "walkin the walk".

After the "power out" drill would be a great time to share with the group how you and your family met the challenges of this experience.

Mac

[jpf1030]

Wow, pretty hard core advice on cutting grid power, but oozing with wisdom! I had planned a test run next month, but an unannounced shut down of our power unexpectedly by someone else would be a better test...jpf