My solar panels will be hooked to the grid using an inverter. When the grid goes down, I would like to use a generator as back up and to run the inverter as well. It seems to me I should be able to do it. Any suggestions how?
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Hi Farmerdoug - Welcome to Solar Panel Talk!
I see no benefit in using the inverter when running the gen set?
What are you trying to gain?
Russ[SIGPIC][/SIGPIC] -
Well you you can certainly use a generator as emergency power, but yu will not be able to use your GTI when commercial power is off as they are not designed to work with a generator or high impedance source.MSEE, PEComment
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Originally posted by farmerdoug View PostGTI?
It's been a while since I took an electronics course isn't a transformer used to match impedances?
GTI's are current sources, not voltage sources like a generator or battery. They are made to operate into the extremely low impedance and frequency precision of the grid. An emergency generator like those used at a residence or commercial application are very low power (high impedance) and have horrible frequency regulation compared to the national grid. Well unless your home generator happens to be a few Terra Watts.(That means 1 Trillion Watts or more, enough to run a small country)MSEE, PEComment
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So I need something more sophisticated. I need to take some power from the generator to run the inverter ( or one of new design); and when the generator is in use, I need somewhere to dump the extra power that would normally go back to the grid. In fact, since the generator is not meant to replace the grid, there may never be any extra pump. I could insure that by what I ask the generator to power in the house.Comment
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Originally posted by farmerdoug View PostSo I need something more sophisticated. I need to take some power from the generator to run the inverter ( or one of new design); and when the generator is in use, I need somewhere to dump the extra power that would normally go back to the grid.MSEE, PEComment
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Originally posted by farmerdoug View PostOk. Forget the grid for a moment. I could build a circuit that allows me to use solar panels and a generator. Right?
With that said there are what is called Hybrid GTI's. They use batteries to take over when the grid fails for a short period of time until the generator starts up and takes over. But they have very limited power output, still require two transfer switches one to isolate you from the grid, and another to limit what has power in your home like cutting off your air conditioner, electric hot water heater, stove, oven, etc.. IMO they are not worth the expense, time or trouble.
Best option with a grid tied system if you want emergency power is a generator. It is th eleat expensive option and you do not have to suffer with power limitations if sized correctly.MSEE, PEComment
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If the grid is down for a couple of weeks you run the generator a lot.
The preferred method here is to have a grid tie PV system with a generator for emergency power. It is by far the cheapest option available for most folks.[SIGPIC][/SIGPIC]Comment
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Originally posted by farmerdoug View PostIf I have a propane generator, the price of propane may stay reasonable for a while but if I use diesel then the price will get very high.
Originally posted by farmerdoug View PostIf the grid goes down for a week or two, it would be silly to let the panels go used. No?MSEE, PEComment
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