Doug Kalmer who has contributed a number of projects to Build-It-Solar has completed his new 4600 watt PV system and documented all the deign and construction detail.
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| Doug and friend in front of the new PV array |
The PV array is grid-tied and uses the Enphase micro-inverters with one micro-inverter per PV module. Each micro-inverter runs its PV module at its maximum power point, and converts the DC from the PV module into grid compatible 240 VAC. These micro-inverter systems are well suited to DIY installations, and are also easy to expand over time.
The homemade mount system that Doug used is very simple, very durable, and saves a lot of money over commercial mounts -- well worth looking at if you have a welder.
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The mount system uses welded 1.5 inch galvanized pipe --
simple, strong and durable. |
The cost of the system worked out to about $2.50 a peak watt before rebates and incentives -- this is well under half the $6.80 US average that Solar Today reported a couple of months ago for commercially installed grid-tie PV systems over the US. So, there is a very significant saving here for doing the work yourself.
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This shows the old meter on right, the new meter that tracks the PV
production, and the PV array AC disconnect in the middle. |
Doug's power is provided by the TVA, and they have a nice program that pays a $1000 incentive when the system is first installed, and also pay $0.12 per KWH over the base rate for 10 years. Pretty nice.
All the details on Doug's new grid-tied PV system...
Doug's other projects on Build-It-Solar...
Thanks very much to Doug for sending in all the details!
Gary March 4, 2012
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