 If
the sun isn't shining and the wind isn't blowing, you need backup power.
Hydropower (power from moving water) is a very effective option, if a flowing
stream or spring is available. We feature Harris Hydro turbines in our installations.
Reliability is high and maintenance consists of keeping the waterway clear
of debris.
Another new but unproven option is the hydrogen fuel cell. We are exploring
equipment from several manufacturers. Hydrogen for the fuel cell can be
generated with solar power through electrolysis, but collection and storage
equipment are all still experimental. Hydrogen is available from commercial
welding supply companies.
Our most popular form of backup power is the engine generator. We sell
Kohler generators for many of our systems. While it is possible to use
renewable fuels such as Methane gas or Biodiesel, most people opt for
the less benign petroleum fuels such as propane or gasoline. In a well
designed solar system, backup power will be necessary less than 5% of
the year. This translates into running the generator for a few hours per
week 2 to 3 weeks a year. Obviously actual run times will vary with local
site conditions and needs, but many of our more environmentally conscious
customers prefer to reduce their power usage rather than run an often
loud and pollution emitting generator.
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