Off Grid Solar System: What You Need to Know Before You Switch

Off grid solar system can offer you the ultimate independence from the grid, but is it worth the cost and complexity? Find out in this article.

Do you want to have more control over your energy bills, reduce your environmental impact, and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of living off the grid? If so, you are among the growing number of Australians who are choosing to install off grid solar systems on their homes and properties.

Off grid solar systems are solar power systems that are not connected to the utility grid, but generate and store their own electricity from the sun. Off grid solar systems can provide you with clean, renewable, and affordable energy, wherever you are. In this article, we will explore what an off grid solar system is, how it works, and whether you should go off grid or not.

What Is an Off Grid Solar System?

An off grid solar system, also known as a standalone solar system, is a solar power system that is not connected to the utility grid. An off grid solar system can power your appliances and devices without relying on the grid, which means you can have electricity even when there is a power outage or no grid access. These systems are typically used in remote areas where access to the grid is limited or non-existent.

An off grid solar system typically consists of the following components:

Solar panels: These are the devices that capture sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. The number and size of solar panels you need depend on your energy consumption and the amount of sunlight available in your area.

Charge controller: This is a device that regulates the voltage and current from the solar panels to the batteries. It prevents overcharging and over-discharging of the batteries, and optimises the charging efficiency.

Battery bank: This is a set of batteries that store the excess electricity from the solar panels for later use. The capacity and type of batteries you need depend on your energy consumption and the duration of backup power you want.

Inverter: This is a device that converts the DC electricity from the solar panels or the batteries into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is the standard form of electricity used by most appliances and devices. The power and type of inverter you need depend on the wattage and voltage of your appliances and devices.

Wiring and accessories: These are the cables, connectors, fuses, switches, and other components that connect the solar system components and ensure the safety and functionality of the system.

Some off grid solar systems may also include additional components, such as:

Generator: This is a device that runs on fuel (such as gasoline, diesel, or propane) and produces AC electricity. A generator can be used as a backup source of power when the solar system is not enough to meet your energy needs, or when the weather is cloudy or rainy.

Solar tracker: This is a device that adjusts the position of the solar panels according to the movement of the sun. A solar tracker can increase the solar energy production by 25% to 35%, but it also adds to the cost and complexity of the system.

Wind turbine: This is a device that harnesses the power of the wind and produces electricity. A wind turbine can complement the solar system and provide more power during the night or when the sun is not shining.

How Does an Off Grid Solar System Work?

An off grid solar system works by following these steps:

The solar panels absorb the sunlight and produce DC electricity.
The charge controller regulates the voltage and current from the solar panels and sends it to the battery bank or the inverter.
The battery bank stores the excess electricity from the solar panels for later use.
The inverter converts the DC electricity from the solar panels or the batteries into AC electricity, which can power your appliances and devices.
The wiring and accessories connect the solar system components and ensure the safety and functionality of the system.

Depending on your energy needs and preferences, you can use different modes of operation for your off grid solar system, such as:

Direct mode: In this mode, the solar panels directly power your appliances and devices during the day, without using the batteries or the inverter. This mode is suitable for low-power and DC appliances, such as lights, fans, and chargers.

Battery mode: In this mode, the solar panels charge the batteries during the day, and the batteries power your appliances and devices during the night or when the sun is not shining, using the inverter. This mode is suitable for high-power and AC appliances, such as refrigerators, air conditioners, and TVs.

Hybrid mode: In this mode, the solar panels power your appliances and devices during the day, and also charge the batteries. The batteries power your appliances and devices during the night or when the sun is not shining, using the inverter. This mode is suitable for a mix of low-power and high-power appliances, and for maximising the use of solar energy.

Should You Go Off Grid?

Imagine a world where your power bill is a blank page, your environmental footprint a shrinking shadow, and your energy security a fortress against blackouts. This isn't a utopian dream, it's the reality of going off-grid with solar power.

But before you unplug from the grid and embrace the sun, let's explore the electrifying possibilities and the grounded realities of this bold choice:

Saving money: Going off grid can help you reduce or eliminate your electricity bills, as you are not dependent on the grid or the utility company. You can also avoid the rising electricity prices and the fees and taxes associated with grid-connected solar systems.

Protecting the environment: Going off grid can help you reduce your carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions, as you are using clean and renewable energy from the sun. You can also avoid the environmental impacts of grid infrastructure, such as transmission lines, power plants, and fossil fuels.

Increasing your energy security: Going off grid can help you increase your energy security and independence, as you are not affected by grid failures, blackouts, or power shortages. You can also control your own energy production and consumption and customise your system according to your needs and preferences.

Improving your quality of life: Going off grid can help you improve your quality of life and well-being, as you are living in harmony with nature and using sustainable energy. You can also enjoy the peace and quiet of living away from the noise and pollution of the city.

However, going off grid also has some challenges, such as:

High upfront cost: Going off grid can be expensive, as you need to buy and install the solar panels, the batteries, the inverter, and other components. You also need to pay for the maintenance and replacement of the system over time.

Complex design and installation: Going off grid can be complicated, as you need to design and install the system according to your location, climate, energy demand, and budget. You also need to comply with the local codes and regulations and obtain the necessary permits and approvals.

Limited power supply: Going off grid can be risky, as you are relying on the sun for your power supply. You may face power shortages or interruptions when there is no sunlight or when the weather is bad. You also need to manage your energy usage and avoid wasting or overloading the system.

Best Off Grid Solar Systems

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for off grid solar systems, as each system needs to be tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of the user. However, there are some general factors that can help you choose the best off grid solar system for your situation, such as:

Size: The size of the system depends on how much electricity you need and how much sunlight you have. You need to calculate your daily energy consumption and your peak power demand and match them with the output and capacity of the solar panels and the batteries. You also need to consider the space and weight limitations of your location and the solar panels.

Quality: The quality of the system depends on the performance and durability of the components. You need to choose high-quality solar panels, batteries, inverters, and charge controllers that can withstand the harsh conditions and deliver reliable and efficient power. You also need to look for the warranties and certifications of the components and the manufacturers.

Price: The price of the system depends on the size and quality of the components, as well as the installation and maintenance costs. You need to compare the prices and the value of different systems and choose the one that fits your budget and expectations. You also need to consider the payback period and the return on investment of the system.

Off Grid Solar Price

The price of an off grid solar power system varies depending on the size and quality of the system, as well as the location and the installation. However, a rough estimate of the price range of an off grid solar system in Australia is as follows:

Small off grid solar system: A small off grid solar system, which can power a few lights, a fridge, a TV, and a laptop, typically costs between $15,000 and $25,000. It usually consists of 3 to 5 kW of solar panels, 4 to 10 kWh of batteries, and a 3 to 5 kW inverter.

Medium off grid solar system: A medium off grid solar system, which can power a small house or a cabin, typically costs between $35,000 and $55,000. It usually consists of 8 to 11 kW of solar panels, 16 to 25 kWh of batteries, and a 5 to 10 kW inverter.

Large off grid solar system: A large off grid solar system, which can power a large house or a farm, typically costs between $75,000 and $125,000. It usually consists of 10 to 20kW of solar panels, 30 to 50kWh of batteries, and a 15 to 45kW inverter.

These prices are only indicative and may vary depending on the specific components, the installation, and the location. For a more accurate and customised quote, you need to contact a professional and reputable off grid solar system installer, such as the Energy Solution Centre.

Why Choose the Energy Solution Centre for Your Off Grid Solar System?

Energy Solution Centre is the best solar company on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia. We have over 15 years of experience and expertise in designing, installing, and maintaining off grid solar systems for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. We offer:

Customised solutions: We tailor our off grid solar systems to your specific needs and preferences. We assess your location, climate, energy demand, and budget and design the optimal system for you. We also offer a range of options and features, such as hybrid systems, backup generators, smart controllers, and remote monitoring.

Quality products: We use only the best quality products from the most trusted brands in the industry. We source our solar panels, batteries, inverters, and charge controllers from the leading manufacturers, such as LG, Tesla, SMA, Trina Solar, and more. We also ensure that our products are certified and compliant with the Australian standards and regulations.

Professional installation: We have a team of qualified and experienced technicians who can install your off grid solar system safely and efficiently. We handle everything from the site preparation, the wiring, the mounting, the testing, and the commissioning. We also provide you with the necessary documentation and support for your system.

Affordable prices: We offer competitive and transparent prices for our off grid solar systems. We provide you with a free and detailed quote that includes the cost of the components, the installation, and the maintenance. We also offer flexible payment plans and financing options to suit your budget.

Excellent service: We provide you with excellent service and support throughout the entire process of your off grid solar system. We offer a free consultation and site visit to discuss your needs and expectations. We also offer a 10-year warranty and a 24/7 customer service for your system.

If you are looking for a reliable, professional, and affordable complete off grid solar system with batteries on the Gold Coast, look no further than the Energy Solution Centre. Contact us today and let us help you transform your home with solar energy.

In Summary

In conclusion, off-grid solar systems offer a viable and sustainable solution for those seeking energy independence and a reduced carbon footprint. While the decision to go off-grid requires careful consideration, the benefits of long-term savings, environmental impact, and overall energy autonomy cannot be overstated. With the right system tailored to your needs, an off-grid solar installation can pave the way for a greener and more self-sufficient future.

Remember, going off-grid with an off-grid solar system isn't just about flipping a switch – it's a whole new way of living.