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Direct Sunlight Requirements for Off The Grid Cabin

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  • Direct Sunlight Requirements for Off The Grid Cabin

    I'm consider a location for an off the grid, remote cabin which needs a fair amount of electricity for a washing machine, freezer, etc. While it receives plenty of "peak sun" at noon, direct sunlight in the mornings and evenings is more limited, due to the mountainous landscape and trees. Generally speaking, how much of an issue can this be?
    1. Can the loss in potential electricity produced be significant in such locations?
    2. Or is it often sufficient to have good access to direct sunlight during and near the peak period?
    3. How much direct sunlight per day is considered a good average?
    Your experience, and input is much appreciated.

    Regards,
    Chiappa

  • #2
    You need a detailed load analysis to plan your solar array. Will you be living there year round? Location? Your available sun could be miniscule in the depths of winter. you may find that a genset could be your best friend during winter.
    One approach , if it works out and makes sense would to have an oversized array and AGM battery bank which you can charge very aggressively during those precious few hours during winter as long as all your charging parameters are set up correctly. AGM's are expensive but have their place in difficult situations like these.
    2.2kw Suntech mono, Classic 200, NEW Trace SW4024

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    • #3
      You need direct sun from sunrise to sunset, especially on a battery system. This will not end well for you and cost a fortune.
      MSEE, PE

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