Diagram showing the flow of energy through an off-grid PV system. In order to store generated power for later use, a bank of batteries is needed. A charge controller regulates the flow of PV electricity into the batteries so they won't get over or under charged. Although most grid-tied (i.e. grid-connected) systems don't use batteries, having back-up power for long-term outages is not a bad idea.
What's included in this tutorial
This online guide introduces you to the components of a residential grid-tied PV system. It also explores options like a backup battery bank and data monitoring equipment. While your local solar company can provide some of this information, it helps to be an informed shopper. Nowadays, many companies charge $200 for the initial home visit and site survey. While they may offer to cancel the fee if you agree to their purchase terms, should you decide not to accept the company's bid, you'll be out all the cash.
So read on. Once you learn about all the equipment and how it's fastened together to generate electricity, you'll be ready to tackle the next tutorial on this website, Steps to Going Solar. This guide walks you through the site assessment, system sizing, component selection, and installation details. You'll also find a complete set of sizing worksheets. (While you may not be interested in the nuts and bolts of planning an installation, be sure to take a peak at the cost/payback/profit analysis on the worksheet menu.)
Of course, TheSolarPlanner.com recommends that you hire a licensed contractor to oversee or complete the tasks involved in any installation. No building inspector will approve the work if it doesn't meet the requirements of the National Electric Code and local ordinances. So if you do decide to take a chance and go it alone, you better do your homework first.