/r/solarpower

Photograph via snooOG

The Solar Power Reddit


The Solar Power Reddit

Solar Power - the conversion of energy from sunlight into electricity, either directly using photovoltaics (PV), indirectly using concentrated solar power, or a combination. Concentrated solar power systems use lenses or mirrors and tracking systems to focus a large area of sunlight into a small beam. Photovoltaic cells convert light into an electric current using the photovoltaic effect.

Photovoltaics were initially solely used as a source of electricity for small and medium-sized applications, from the calculator powered by a single solar cell to remote homes powered by an off-grid rooftop PV system. Commercial concentrated solar power plants were first developed in the 1980s. The 392 MW Ivanpah installation is the largest concentrating solar power plant in the world, located in the Mojave Desert of California.

As the cost of solar electricity has fallen, the number of grid-connected solar PV systems has grown into the millions and utility-scale solar power stations with hundreds of megawatts are being built. Solar PV is rapidly becoming an inexpensive, low-carbon technology to harness renewable energy from the Sun. The current largest photovoltaic power station in the world is the 850 MW Longyangxia Dam Solar Park, in Qinghai, China.

The International Energy Agency projected in 2014 that under its "high renewables" scenario, by 2050, solar photovoltaics and concentrated solar power would contribute about 16 and 11 percent, respectively, of the worldwide electricity consumption, and solar would be the world's largest source of electricity. Most solar installations would be in China and India. Currently, as of 2016, solar power provides just 1% of total worldwide electricity production but growing 33% per annum.

Wiikipedia: solar power


Related Reddits


/r/solarpower

4,314 Subscribers

2

【We are looking for someone who has experiences using Bolt/Torque Markers】

Hi I am working at research company in Osaka, Japan.

We are currently help our client researching about the current process of high-strength bolting at construction sites. Marking bolts is generally done with a pen with special ink, but they are considering developing a stamp-type product to reduce the workload of workers. For this purpose, we would like to talk to people who actually do bolting at construction sites. If you could cooperate with us, it would be great if you could DM me then I will share more detail. It is really hard for us to find the candidates, we would appreciate a lot if you could cooperate with us!

Below is a detail of the project.

Requirements

  • Working in the US on a Highway/Bridge job
  • Have experiences using Bolt Markers at construction sites

Summary

  • Project: 60-90minutes online interview surevy.
  • Topic: The current process of high-strength bolting at construction sites
  • Payment: 100USD Amazon Giftcard via email
  • Privacy: Anonymous online interview via Zoom. (Audio only is available if you prefer).Your personal information will not be shared outside our company.

This is the process:

  1. We will ask you a few screening questions. (I will send you a Google form URL via DM)
  2. If you are selected, we will schedule an interview.
  3. Interview.

I’m looking forward to hearing from you!

0 Comments
2023/11/22
07:36 UTC

2

Anyone with Sungrow experience? Battery especially

We had a Sungrow battery system installed. In theory it's their minimum 9.2kwh battery backup, but we're consistently only able to get about 3kwh out of it from overnight loads (generally 250-600 watts) Is the energy return efficiency through their inverters really just this bad? I'd expect some loses, but not 60%.

0 Comments
2023/11/17
21:42 UTC

1

Solar Sizing

Can anyone connect me with a solar electricity vendor in Argentina? Looking to deploy a remote solar-powered industrial system around Rio Gallegos, Santa Cruz and I would like a second opinion on my sizing. I understand it is a challenging area for solar.

0 Comments
2023/11/07
20:51 UTC

2

Looking for a Solar Power Company: Seeking Suggestions for Providers That Honor Energy Independence

I am currently in the process of researching solar power companies to transition my home to renewable energy or Setup in NJ. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of harnessing solar power to reduce my environmental footprint and energy bills and to get of the grid. However, I have heard concerns from some homeowners about solar companies that install systems, but then resell the generated energy to others, diminishing the benefits of energy independence.

I am reaching out to this community to inquire if anyone has experience with solar power companies that respect your energy autonomy and do not resell the generated energy to third parties.

0 Comments
2023/11/07
12:47 UTC

2

Small solar power plant - problem

Hi all, this is a small solar power source I have tried to install in an open field, those battery set each contain x2 90ah car battery in series (because those x2 solar panels produce 24v) My problem is that whenever I checkk on batteries they have about 2070% considering what control chargers show are accurate (I check on batteries usually around 13:00 to 18:00), I rarely see if all batteries are at 100%, what can be the problem here, did I have any mistake on how I wired or installed equipment or x2 of 330w panels are not sufficient for this amount of batteries here, as load I have x3 of 24v led lamps and a refrigrater with size of 11ft with A++ energy consumption (197kwh/yearly) Somedays I see that my batteries couldn't keep refrigrator on till morning even, and since we are getting close to winter I feel it will get worse even Whenever I checked the amps delivered from panels to control charger, it was about 13 amps ( I usually checked those numbers on digital screen of control charger and around 14:00 to 17:00) Any help and suggestions is appeciated

Note: I am thinking to get a cheap optimized 12v inverter instead of that old 24v inveter and parralel all batteries for 12v, while I am thinking to buy x2 24 to 12v converter to add them before my control chargers

0 Comments
2023/10/29
05:58 UTC

5

Heyla I was wondering what jackery would I need to power maybe 200 watts of stuff for a week? Thank you very much for your help. It's to power a 90w CPAP machine and my phone when camping.

1 Comment
2023/10/20
14:51 UTC

3

Job

Is transmission and interconnection engineer position hard ? I’m an intern just started ..can someone answer

0 Comments
2023/10/17
19:13 UTC

1

🌞 Beta Testers Wanted for Kilowatts: Personalized Solar Forecast App on iOS! 📲

Hey there, fellow solar enthusiasts of r/solarpower! ☀️

Are you tired of second-guessing how much energy your domestic PV system will produce each day? We've got some exciting news for you! We're looking for beta testers to help us fine-tune our cutting-edge solar forecasting app, Kilowatts, and we'd love for you to be a part of it.

What is Kilowatts? Kilowatts is an innovative iOS app that generates personalized solar forecasts for your home's photovoltaic (PV) system. Unlike other solar forecasting tools, Kilowatts uses the latest GFS global weather forecast data to provide incredibly accurate predictions, specific to your location and setup. Imagine having a reliable estimate of your daily energy production at your fingertips!

What You Can Expect as a Beta Tester:

  • Early access to Kilowatts before it hits the App Store.
  • The opportunity to help shape the app's features and functionality.
  • Provide feedback to improve accuracy and user experience.
  • Be part of a passionate solar community.

How to Join the Beta Test:

  1. Follow the Testflight Link https://testflight.apple.com/join/lpP0an26 or Android (https://appdistribution.firebase.dev/i/c3236e72474b2f92) link to get started

What We Need From You:

  • Regular use of Kilowatts and honest feedback about your experience.
  • Let us know if you encounter any bugs or glitches.
  • Suggestions for improving the app's interface and features.
  • Engage with fellow beta testers in discussions about solar forecasting.

We're excited to create a community of solar enthusiasts dedicated to making Kilowatts the best solar forecasting app out there. Your valuable input will help us fine-tune the app, and together, we can harness the power of the sun more efficiently!

Let's make a brighter, cleaner future together. 🌎☀️

Looking forward to having you on board as a Kilowatts beta tester! Feel free to ask any questions or vote on what should be our next priorities below:

View Poll

0 Comments
2023/10/16
12:07 UTC

3

seeking input for a free home solar education mini-course

Hey everyone,

I'm putting together a free mini-course to help homeowners better understand home solar energy. Since It's not suitable for everyone, but knowledge is key when deciding.

The goal? Equip viewers with insights on how home solar works, equipment types, net metering, panel options, and the pros and cons. I want viewers to confidently decide if home solar is right for them.

I need your input! What specific topics do you think I should cover? Share your burning questions when first getting started and experiences.

Thanks..

1 Comment
2023/10/15
16:33 UTC

2

From Sky to Savings - Commercial and Residential Rooftop Solar Systems Explained

https://preview.redd.it/sl8pwp1s1xtb1.jpg?width=1024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0a9413ba5c1c60a5658604218ab695369499a2ba

Envision a rooftop that not only shields you from rain but also saves you money and helps the environment. Rooftop solar systems, categorized as commercial and residential, have an inspiring tale to tell.

Commercial - Rooftop Solar Solutions: These are akin to solar power giants, gracing large buildings, factories, and offices. They act as solar energy superheroes, generating substantial clean power for businesses, resulting in significant savings.

Residential - Rooftop Solutions: These are the solar systems tailored for homes, akin to your cozy neighborhood hero. Despite their size, they offer substantial savings, helping homeowners cut electricity bills and embrace eco-conscious living.

In both scenarios, the concept is straightforward: harness sunlight and transform it into savings. Whether you're managing a business or unwinding at home, solar power presents compelling financial and environmental advantages.

Explore my blog where I explain Commercial and Residential Rooftop Solar Systems in detail. https://kuriansara.livejournal.com/1796.html

0 Comments
2023/10/13
06:47 UTC

3

generator

im new to this sub and have zero experience with solar power. i come with 100% ignorance on the topic. so please be kind.

i live in a country where in the recent weeks, electricity has been going out almost on a daily basis. sometimes it's for 5 minutes, sometimes for a couple hours. it's almost planned i think. not sure what's going on. either way, not important.

i work remotely, and my question is, what type of specs should i look for when purchasing a solar powered generator? keep in mind, this is only to retain my job so only my laptop and router will be plugged in. nothing else. i need something quiet since i will be on calls and something that will last a couple hours. i went on amazon and saw some from $200 - a couple grand. im not trying to spend more than 300. i saw online that people buy the actual generator and then some panels separately? i thought the generator would have its own panels. i guess it depends on the model? again, super foreign to this tech and open to any tips

1 Comment
2023/09/27
21:37 UTC

1

Solar energy

What factors inspired you to use solar lights?I am just curious about that.

And I am very hesitant to use solar right now.Please give me some suggestions.

https://preview.redd.it/klq9or2f2kpb1.png?width=872&format=png&auto=webp&s=f7a6f7ef0644fac731247a910b55a8e3d9893ae9

0 Comments
2023/09/21
06:47 UTC

1

Solar power for car camping.

Hello,

Looking for a setup that will allow me to run a small cooler (not mini fridge, just a small electric cooler) and small things like phone and tablet charging at night. I'm starting a business that will involve longhaul trips and sleeping outside/ in car to watch over livestock. Wondering what a good setup would be for continual power for small cooler and nightly phone and small gadget charging? Oh, and 2 looping cameras. (Think the cameras can run off car battery but jic)

Thanks in advance!

1 Comment
2023/09/20
20:50 UTC

1

Battery Automation Advice Please

Hi all, hopefully you can provide me some advice on something I want to achieve.

I have the following PV equipment: -

PV panels – 12 x Longi LR4-60HPB-365M

Inverter – Solax X1-G4-Hybrid 5M

Battery – Triple Power (Solax) T-BAT H5.8

What I want to do is charge the battery from the grid if the p/kWh is below a certain limit (let’s say 10p/kWh), if the battery level is below 100%.

Our electricity usage is fairly low now, so in the summer the battery rarely drops below the minimum set limit level of 10%. It also pretty much always serves the whole demand during the higher price period of 4pm-8pm.

But in the winter, it’s a different story. Sometimes the battery hardly charges. So I’d like to charge the battery from the grid when it’s below a certain price level, and use that during the day / evening instead.

I am told that the Solax inverter and battery “work with Octopus”, but I can’t find very much information on what that actually means. I was hoping I could link my Octopus account and Solax account, and tell it what I want it to do.

I’m no computer expert, so was hoping it would be that easy when I saw that it “works with Octopus”.

Do any of you clever chaps know what I need to do to make my battery charge on cheap grid energy, and then use that when it’s more expensive?

Thanks

1 Comment
2023/09/19
12:41 UTC

1

Is “U.S. Renewable Energy” a Legitimate Company or Otherwise Good Solution?

A door-to-door salesman from U.S. Renewable Energy gave a sales pitch to my parents, and now I’m trying to confirm this company’s legitimacy. I’ve already instructed my folks to cancel their follow-up appointment and assume that, even if legitimate, the business model is likely to use the home as collateral in a risky contract (equipment financing, utility payment pass through, etc) that they should avoid.

My parents are unsure whether or not their currently installed solar panels are working, and if they are working…how to measure their output (or reconcile against their SDG&E utility bill). What are some good resources to get them started answering these questions? Their inability to answer these questions is what made them even consider a door-to-door sales pitch in the first place.

2 Comments
2023/09/15
21:53 UTC

2

Can Solar Panels Produce Enough Electricity to Meet Your Energy Demands?

https://preview.redd.it/0c1b749k0fob1.jpg?width=1024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=04fe802fd6b434e8a07721e981d19d260a7a3a4e

As the world increasingly turns to sustainable energy solutions to address global energy challenges and environmental issues, solar power has taken the lead. Photovoltaic (PV) panels, commonly known as solar panels, have transformed the way we generate electricity by tapping into the abundant energy provided by the sun. But just how much electricity can we derive from these solar panels? Join us as we explore the nuances of solar panel technology, the factors that impact energy generation, and the capacity of solar power to fulfill our energy requirements.

Curious about the true potential of solar panels? Read my latest blog to find out if they can meet all your energy needs. Harnessing the power of the sun has never been more exciting!

https://www.tumblr.com/solarempowered/728176758703194112/can-solar-panels-produce-enough-electricity-to?source=share

0 Comments
2023/09/15
12:49 UTC

2

Solarizer - Reliable Water Heating Solutions

https://preview.redd.it/h04ss60cy0ob1.png?width=570&format=png&auto=webp&s=5dc9d7c1fe0dfb9a48652b53eb4bf3a1004d5708

Solarizer stands at the pinnacle of excellence within the solar water heater industry, establishing a global standard for exceptional quality and performance. Emmvee's solar water heaters are the culmination of extensive research conducted over several years, assuring they not only meet but exceed the most stringent industry benchmarks. These state-of-the-art systems are meticulously designed to efficiently and consistently harness the sun's energy, offering environmentally conscious consumers a reliable source of hot water while simultaneously reducing their carbon footprint. Emmvee's unwavering dedication to superior quality and continuous innovation guarantees that their solar water heaters consistently outperform international standards, making them the trusted choice for those in search of sustainable, top-tier heating solutions.

For more information check this : https://emmvee.com/solar-water-heater/

0 Comments
2023/09/13
13:27 UTC

1

Solar energy light

Talk about the replacement and use characteristics of solar street lights.

In recent years, society has progressed rapidly. We have no time to sigh that before, things are gradually changing now. Even the street lamps that we often see in our daily lives are changing in style and use. The traditional street lamps we used before have all changed. They have been slowly phased out and replaced with emerging clean solar street lights.

Solar street lights are more energy-saving than traditional street lights. The electricity they use comes from solar resources. For solar street lights, it is a zero-consumption and zero-pollution solar road light. In addition to saving electricity, solar street lights have an appearance,which is beautiful and elegant, and is integrated into every area of use, making the installation of solar street lights also form a landscape.

Solar street lights are simple to install, save energy, are environmentally friendly and low-carbon. Solar energy-saving street lights have many advantages when used on urban roads. They reduce energy consumption, make urban road lighting more energy-saving, brighter and more efficient, making people's travel more convenient and safe.

0 Comments
2023/09/13
06:28 UTC

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