Hi

I am busy with my solar solution investigation and have some initial questions.

Location:

I busy looking at the location of the inverter and batteries, but have a number of challenges and want to get some ideas from the group.

My main db board is located in hallway and full,  so installation of inverter and batteries very close to db board not an option.

I have a small storage room (2 m x 2 m) to the main db board where I have server cabinet installed where my fiber ONT, modem, micro server, DVR is located. I can potentially install the inverter, batteries, etc. in that room and run cables (+/- 6 meters) to main db. The only concern is not much ventilation so one might need to install extraction fans, etc. On the plus side, the room above room north facing.

Then I have second db in the garage to provide power to loft build above the garage. The db in garage gets power feed from main db. The second option is to install inverter, batteries, etc.  in garage close to second db and run cable back from inverter to main db which to connect. The only challenge, because their is a loft above the garage the roof is quite high and also east and west facing.

With regards to batteries, any issues with installing it in the home? What needs to be taken in consideration when selecting installation area? Would the storage room be sufficient or is garage recommended?

Hybrid vs Offgrid

I am considering hybrid solution.

I read that with hybrid solution one needs to take regulation in consideration. I am in Centurion I can't find much on solar regulation.

With regards to regulation, is the concern related to pushing power back into the grid? If the case, can't one set the inverter not send power back into the grid?

I notice there is a number of "hybrid" inverters which basically switch the source from solar to grid if power from solar is not enough.  I am looking for a hybrid inverter that won't switch source but combine sources. For example, "The  first use the solar power, if the demand exceeds the solar power it will supplement it with mains utility power. If the solar power exceeds the power demand the excess power is used to charge batteries."

Any recommendations for 3kVA and k5VA hybrid inverters?

Thanks

Steven

 

 

Welcome Steven.

Found this: http://www.tshwane.gov.za/PublicParticipation/28. Proposed Embedded Generation Policy to support and formalise procedure.pdf

Go grid tied, most savings, 3kva, victron meets all the ticks - T&C apply as we are arguing the finer points in CoCT, with new regs in draft form.