I’m considering integrating solar power systems and components into an eco-development here in Costa Rica. I have some questions in order to budget for these systems:
I cant determine if we need a "grid-tie" system or an "off-grid" system. I believe we need parts from both, or a "hybrid" system. I want to offer solar power as a standalone system with a large battery backup that utilizes the solar power until the batteries are exhausted. When there is no power left from the batteries, it would automatically switch to local power company, only as a backup. It is doubtful that the local government-controlled power company would issue credits for "selling power back to the grid", so a "grid-tie" system as shown on your packages would not work. The energy from the solar panels would have to route into a large battery bank, not back to the grid. It is also different from an "off-grid system" in that, if depleted, the system would need to automatically switch to local power source.
This solar power system would need "pure sine wave" inverters – capable of supplying energy to any standard appliance as well as a sensitive automation control system with touchscreens in the home. I believe the Magnum MS4448 (http://www.wholesalesolar.com/products.folder/inverter-folder/Magnum_MS4448.html) fits the bill, but I’m not sure.
Finally, I would like to link 7 of these eco-home solar power systems together in order to capitalize on power sharing for a more reliable and robust system – especially since it is likely that at least 1-2 homes would not be occupied (they’re vacation properties) at any given time. I believe that by burying Romex electrical lines between the homes and linking each homes’ bank of batteries would do this… correct? Then, just one of these systems would be linked to the power company to switch over once all batteries are drained – since the charge would be evenly dispersed across all homes…. correct?
I would use locally-bought marine-grade batteries for storing charges in each eco-dome. I’m not sure how many batteries or what type. I would want each 2,000 sq.ft. eco-home to be as self-sustaining as possible on solar power. Assuming a maximum power draw of 500KWhs per home per month, what parts do I need? (I’m looking at the website: www.wholsesalesolar.com for parts to import)
Also, is there a better way of doing this, or do any of these ideas seem unfeasable?
Thanks
