subject: Off the Grid Electricity System [print this page] Off the Grid Electricity System Off the Grid Electricity System
Up until a few years ago, off the grid electricity was something that nutty scientists indulged in as experiments. But the technology has now been tested and commercialized to such a degree that it is foolish not to make use of it. The options are quite varied too, ranging from solar panels and wind turbines to food waste powered systems. I also learned to build my own DIY electricity system cheaply using a guide that I will share more about with you.
In fact, some of these programs have been phenomenally successful and people in some countries actually get paid for the excess power they send back into the grid. Some countries even provide tax rebates and other subsidies to those willing to buy and install the required equipment at home. Then there's also the fact that it reduces utility bills.
But let's leave the grid and money out of the equation for now. Let's just focus on how to generate enough renewable energy at home from a stand-alone system to fulfill power consumption, in part or in full. The two main tested and commercially feasible methods for ordinary homes are solar and wind power.
The concept of a solar panel system is pretty common, and involves a panel made up of solar cells that are able to generate electricity from the energy in sunlight. A typical solar system can easily provide at least enough energy for heating water. If enough panels are mounted on the roof and function at optimum efficiency, they may even be able to power the entire home.
A wind turbine is a more powerful solution, as long as there's enough room to set it up and the wind speed is above a minimum threshold (9.0-10.2 mph). This is why it works best in large properties such as farms and mansions. The grounds need to be big enough to provide enough separation between the turbine and a neighbor's property.
Those interested can buy a full system (solar or wind) and get it installed by the company. It's also possible to get DIY kits for both, and put it together without anybody's help. Note that there are issues regarding permits and zoning restrictions that may vary based on the location and type of property.
There are quite a few other options like micro-hydro power turbines, biogas and food waste units, etc. The whole point is that it's high time every home should now have the capacity to generate off the grid electricity. It saves a lot of money and saves the planet too, so there's really no argument against it - except for the cost and hassle of buying and installing it.
