Grid Connected Renewable Energy Systems
Types and Costs
There are many sources of renewable energy. Solar photovoltaic, wind turbine and micro-hydro energy systems are recognised as the three most common. A grid-connected renewable energy system can have one or more of these energy sources. A system with more than one type of energy technology is called a hybrid system.
Special power conditioning equipment is required to convert the electricity from the renewable energy source to 240V/AC electricity suitable for your home appliances and for feeding back onto the grid. This includes an inverter to convert the direct current electricity into alternating current. A typical grid-connected renewable energy system is illustrated below.
Battery storage can be included in the grid-connected system to supply energy at times when renewable energy is insufficient to meet your home energy demand. However it is not a necessary component as grid electricity can be used at these times. The battery bank can be charged by excess renewable energy and/or grid electricity. It may provide an uninterruptible power supply, although inefficiencies in charging a battery bank waste electricity
Cost of Grid Connected Renewable Energy Systems
A grid-connected renewable energy system for a residential home can cost from $5,000 to $50,000. The cost varies due to:
- the amount of energy your house consumes and when it uses most of the energy;
- the propoprtion of your energy consumption you choose to be met by renewable energy;
- the technology you choose to use; and
the location of your house and the availability of a suitable site for the renewable source.
For example, a 1 kW solar photovoltaic system will cost around $15,000 and produce 4 to 7 kWh of electricity each day over the daylight hours. The average all electric home uses around 12 kWh each day.
How to Select a Grid-Connected Renewable Energy System For Your Home
Contact suppliers for information and quotes on possible systems, and seek independent advice.
Make sure you get Local Government aproval for your proposed installation.
List of Suppliers of Renewable Energy Systems
To be eligible for the Commonwealth Photovoltaic Rebate Progam (PVRP) or for the WA Renewable Energy Rebate Scheme, power systems must be designed by a supplier accredited by the SEIA or approved by the Office of Energy.
www.bcse.org.au/docs/STA/Installers%20List/AccInstallers%20List%20-%20all%20-%20071004.pdf
Please note: this list of suppliers is provided for general information only and is not an endorsement by Horizon Power or any product or service made, sold or provided by the companies.