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Join Date: Jul 2000
Location: Houston, Tejas
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Quote:
Originally Posted by DAEpperson View Post
My questions is, What if they stop paying you for the juice?
If you follow what I suggest, then there is no issue. You are simply nulling out the usage during the peak/high cost hours. If you put in a larger system, then the purchase credits become an issue.

You're alternative is to go "off grid". You supply your electrical needs and you have batteries to hold the excess for use during the night time. Some of the charge controllers have an A/C input/rectifier which allows you to charge your batteries during off peak hours, when the panels can't keep up.

I suggest the following: Do some usage measurements throughout the day so that you understand your peak usage. The monthly numbers over a year are a start, but you also need to know a "typical" day in each of the four seasons.

Also remember that the panels produce for only about 3-10 hours per day, depending on where you are located, the type of charge controller, time of year, etc.

Find out what the electric company will pay you for the excess.
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The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the engineer adjusts the sails.- William Arthur Ward (1921-1994)
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Old 10-12-2010, 12:00 PM
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