Grid Connect Systems
Basic representation of the elctrical power gridNearly all Australian homes are connected to their State Electricity Grid, that's the powerlines, sub stations and transformers you see around, all linking major power stations to your household. A Grid Connect Solar System has a number of solar panels that feed through an inverter to convert from DC to AC power to feed into the grid. No batteries are used in these systems as any power you don't use will be fed into the grid and a refund each year from your local electricity company can be sort for (discuss your rebates with your local electricity supplier.)
The Commonwealth government has introduced a Photovoltaic Rebate Program, which applies to domestic solar systems sized above 1,000 Watt.
This is the electricity grid and the process of power getting to your household
Common questions regarding Grid Connect Systems
Where should the Panels and Inverter be installed?
Pretty much where you would like it keeping in mind you will want the most sun through out the day time and the least shading of panels. The panels can be installed on your roof or be free standing. It is recommended that your solar panels face north at an angle of between 30 and 45 degrees. Your inverter in most cases will be mounted as close to your switchboard as possible. Inland Solar can provide you information on where your system will get the best efficiency for your house.
Free Standing System Roof Mount System Ground Mount System
How much maintenance is required?
Basically none, once your system is installed just give the panels a wipe monthly preferably and your system should last you at least over 20 years without maintenance.
Who installs the system?
We do. We have gained full accreditation by the BCSE (Business Council of Sustainable Energy/Clean Energy Council) to design and install solar power systems so that the customer can be eligible for all rebates available.
What happens if the grid goes down?
Your system is designed to automatically shut down too. This is because the electricity supplier requires that when their grid goes down then so does yours as not to damage or interfere with either system. If you wanted to stay online whilst the rest of your area in blackout you would have to opt for a battery backed grid connect. These systems are basically the same as grid connect but you have battery storage power to supply you with some power until the grid comes back on and an isolator from the main grid so no interference can be caused.
What happens to excess power generated by my Grid Connect System?
In 2010 we saw the introduction of the 60 cent Gross Feed tarrif. The excess energy produced and fed back into the grid now is at 60 cents per kilowatt. Gross Feed is available for systems up to 10 Kilowatt connected to Country Energy's grid network.
If you are unable to feed directly into the grid from the inverter the tarrif will be a net tarrif. Net tarrif is any excess energy produced over and above your daily usage and fed back into the grid will be at 60 cents. Please contact Country Energy for verification of the above information relating to feed in tarrifs into their network.
OUR PRODUCTS
Bp Solar
175watt Panels
Rated power: 175W
Typical applications:
Designed for grid-connect applications such as large commercial roofs, residential systems and solar power plants, along with remote, off-grid applications such as telecommunications, water pumping and home systems.
Configuration:
BP 3175N - Universal frame, a sealed junction box with output cables and polarised multicontact (MC) connectors.
BP 3175J - Universal frame with an accessible junction box for cable connection.
Nominal voltage: 24V
Cell technology: Multicrystalline
Dimensions:1593 x 790 x 50mm
Weight: 15.4kg
Glass type: High transmission 3mm tempered glass.
Frame type: Clear anodised aluminium alloy type 6063T6. Colour: silver.
Inverters
Inverters are electronic devices that automatically convert DC to AC electricity and control the flow of electricity required.
All models are fully approved for use in Australia and feature many options for data logging, data displays, remote device control and modular expandability. All models are constructed with either stainless steel or die cast aluminium construction, providing outstanding high temperature performance and protection against weather, insects and dust. The majority of the range is rated to IP65 degree of protection.
BP Solar's GC range of inverters from SMA Technologie AG is designed specifically for grid-connected applications. With a range of sizes available, there is an inverter to suit your needs, from small residential solar systems to large commercial solar systems.
All grid-connect inverters now feature a 10-year warranty as standard and meet all relevant Australian Standards for grid connection.
Sharp Solar
175 Watt Panels
Cell Makeup- Single-crystalline silicon solar cells, 125 mm square
No. of Cells and Connections- 72 in series
Application- DC 24V system
Maximum system voltage- DC 1000V
Series fuse rating- Series fuse rating 10A
Maximum Power- 166.3 W (min)
Dimensions- 1575 x 826 x 46 mm
Weight- 17 Kg
Solarfun
175 Watt Panels
Maximum Power- 175watt
Open Circuit Voltage- 32.3v
Closed Circuit Voltage- 7.64amp
Maximum Power Voltage- 26.4v
Maximum Power Current- 6.63amp
Module Efficiency- 11.7
REC PRICES FOR THURSDAY 2-09-2010
PV REC Value is $31.00
Solar Hot Water REC Value is $30.00
BONUS: We pay an additional value per REC on all complete BP Solar Systems.
NOTE: Rec value changes regularly and payment value is calculated on the day the RECs are assigned.
SOLAR HOT WATER
Due to the demand in power and rates going up all the time the NSW & Australian Governments have pitched in to make systems more affordable to the customer.
