Often, power outages happen unexpectedly. If, in addition, we find ourselves in the middle of an important video call or a work meeting, this unforeseen event can play a trick on us. A self-consumption solar kit can be the solution to sudden power loss or, simply, an additional method to reduce our consumption of the electrical network. However, for this you must know how self-consumption works through solar energy and what are the appropriate components of these kits.
What is a self-consumption solar system
A solar self-consumption system consists of the production of energy for own consumption through solar radiation —specifically by means of photovoltaic solar panels—, so that anyone can generate their own energy or electricity.
To do this, the installation consists of fixed or portable solar panels, an energy regulator, an inverter and a battery as a storage system.
How do these types of facilities work?
Both self-consumption solar kits and solar panel installations can be differentiated into grid-connected and off-grid installations.
- Photovoltaic installation with grid connection: after the solar panels absorb the solar energy, they will convert it into direct current electricity. After that, the solar inverter will transform the direct current into alternating current —what is necessary for consumption— and it will be distributed according to the demand of the connected devices. Finally, the meter will register the kWh that are consumed and if the electricity is insufficient, energy will be consumed from the electrical network.
- Solar installation isolated: like the installation with grid connection, the solar panels will capture the sun's energy and transform it into direct current so that the regulator can collect it. It will be this element that regulates the intensity of the energy that will later be stored in the battery accumulators. In this way, when we need to consume electricity, it will pass to the inverter and convert it into alternating current.
The main difference between the two systems lies in the possibility of consumption when there is or is not access to the electrical network. In other words, while the grid-connected photovoltaic installation is limited in the event of power outages —in order to prevent electrical current from flowing while the lines are being repaired—, the isolated solar installation allows energy use when power outages occur.
On the other hand, while the grid connection alternative can resort to the electrical grid in case there is not enough solar radiation, the isolated solar installation will not be able to do so. For this reason, the latter is a fantastic choice as a complement to the traditional network or as a sustainable option during trips if you want to achieve greater autonomy.
What elements does a self-consumption solar kit consist of?
A solar kit for personal consumption supplies energy to an electrical installation or directly to the devices connected to it. The elements that make it up are:
- Self-consumption solar panels: also known as photovoltaic module, the solar panel is responsible for capturing solar radiation, that is, producing electrical energy.
- Charge regulator: is the element in charge of managing the electrical energy stored in the battery.
- Inverter: transforms direct current into alternating current, suitable for consumption.
- Battery: There are many kinds of batteries, but they all have the function of storing the excess energy that is produced so that it can be consumed when needed. So far, lithium batteries, such as the one contained in the PowerOak Bluetti AC50S 500 Wh generator, offer better performance.
If what you are looking for is a simple and easy-to-use alternative, at Bluetti you can purchase the generator and the different accessories to have a solar kit at your measure.
Advantages of self-consumption of photovoltaic energy
Generating your own energy through a self-consumption photovoltaic installation sounds good, but did you know that this is not the only benefit of betting on this green alternative?
- When we use a self-consumption solar kit, we are committed to clean, renewable and sustainable energy, so that we protect the environment and nature.
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Opting for a portable self-consumption kit represents considerable savings both for large installations and if it becomes one of the gadgets of your campervan
. It will become the best accessory for all your trips.
- Through our own production we achieve a certain independence from the system, since we are directly consuming the energy we produce, and not that which comes from the electrical network.
- The initial investment can pay for itself in about 6 or 11 years. And it is that although, at first, it may seem like a large outlay, in the long run you get a performance of great value, even more if it is about large spaces, work areas where power outages are common or if you travel frequently.
Technology and sustainability are two of the features that characterize a self-consumption solar kit. So if you are concerned about protecting the environment and taking care of your pocket, the next step is to incorporate a self-consumption photovoltaic installation. The future will thank you.
