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Basic Off-grid System Users Guide Poster
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Started this discussion. Last reply by Eric Youngren Mar 3, 2010.

Off-grid PV as appropriate technology?

Started Dec 1, 2009

Solar Nexus Systems

Started Dec 1, 2009

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Windpower

For those who make electricity from the wind.
Jul 22, 2010
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Wood Heating

A group for those who heat their homes with wood and other biomass.
Jul 22, 2010
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Grid Connected PV

Join this group if you're exporting electrons to the local utility grid.
Jul 22, 2010
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Solar Hot Water

A group for folks who heat their water with the sun.
Jul 22, 2010
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Microhydro

For users and fans of micro scale hydropower
Jul 22, 2010
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Eric Youngren updated their profile
Jul 14, 2010
Eric Youngren and Rick Hughes are now friends
Jul 13, 2010
Eric Youngren left a comment for Paul Kemp
"Hey Paul, Welcome to the Solar Empowerment Network! Thanks for joining. I hope that you'll share some pictures and/or videos of your RE systems and participate in our community here. Not much has happened with the community but I hope to get…"
May 11, 2010

Profile Information

What type of renewable energy system(s) do you use?
photovoltaics (PV), microhydro, solar hot water (SHW), wood/biomass heating
Describe your system(s)
1 kW Harris PM microhydro turbine - 48V
2 Outback FX3048T inverter/chargers
30 tubes Thermomax Mazdon SHW collector
Tarm wood boiler with 620 gallon thermal storage tank
250W of Mitsubishi PV (test system for 12V power centers - parallel to 48V system)
Off-grid or grid connected?
off-grid
Why do you use renewable energy systems?
remote location - no grid power available, off-grid by choice, secure energy supply (backup power), to reduce my carbon footprint, financial benefits, to teach others, to be eco-groovy
In your own words, what else motivates you to use RE systems?
I am so very lucky to have a year round flowing source of hydropower in my backyard. It was a major factor in deciding to build here.

I like the long term security of not being dependent on the grid, and the feelings of independence and self reliance that come from not being connected to the electric grid or the propane delivery route.
Website:
http://solarnexusinternational.com


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Battery Charging Lockers for Haiti?

Ever since the earthquake in Haiti I’ve been thinking about how we could get some small scale solar empowerment to those poor displaced people. Shanty towns and tent cities are the sad reality of Haiti for the foreseeable future. Nano-scale PV lanterns and small battery charging systems could get them some…

Continue

Posted on March 3, 2010 at 9:57am

Post your system pictures!!

Please post some pictures of your systems. Show us how you power yourselves.



They do not have to be pretty pictures. I like 'em raw and funky. (this means you, Sparky Candoo) We don't judge here by the tidiness of your wiring. We are about empowerment, not regulations and rules. The electrical inspector is not watching. And even if he was, he'll never find you.



Hopefully your systems are safe, and at least follow the spirit of the NEC. But the beauty of PV, especially low… Continue

Posted on April 10, 2008 at 8:00pm

Welcome to the Solar Empowerment Network!

Calling all solar powered people! If you use renewable energy (RE) systems in your home, vessel or business, stand up and be counted by joining the Solar Empowerment Network. Share some pictures or videos of your system or start a blog to share your off-grid adventures with the grid-dependent masses. Use the forum to ask questions or start a discussion.



If you use PV, wind, microhydro or solar hot water systems please join the network! If you are a RE system installer or contractor… Continue

Posted on April 4, 2008 at 12:00am

Comment Wall (1 comment)

At 8:13am on April 27, 2008, Jim Cataldo said…
Eric, just a little info about me and my set up. I live in northern New York, married and 2 boys. We are still grid connected, but make most of our own power.( for 11 years.) I utilize 3 charging sources for my batteries, wind, photovoltaics and microhydro. This has been a great learning experience in both installation and conservation, which will aid us in being totally off grid in our new home. Gotta run, regards, Jim

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