What are the best strategies for orienting your array to get the energy you need? Rule of Thumb There is a very general approximation based on the fact that the sun does not stay at its low point or high
The Various ‘Flavours’ Of Lithium
Lithium batteries are typically referred to by the broad term: Lithium-Ion. However, there are actually several different ‘flavours’ of Lithium-Ion in common use, each with their own unique performance characteristics. Here are the most common… Iron Phosphate (LFP or LiFePO4)
The Economics of Lithium Batteries
You need new batteries for your cabin or RV. Maybe you’ve been thinking about energy backup for your home. But every time you run a search online, you find thousands of options, and conflicting performance information, and prices at both
When You’re Given The Cold Solar
The sceneYou’re in the process of putting together a solar energy system. You’ve picked a brand of solar panel that will fit your needs, and have chosen a 150V MPPT charge controller to manage the battery charging. You’ve done the
What You Really Need To Know About Lithium Batteries & Their Safe Use
What follows is a brief addendum to these articles, adding a few notes to help people truly understand the lithium battery landscape.
Portable Solar Panels & Extension Cables
You’re looking to position some portable solar panels at a distance from your van or RV or cabin. Mainly because it’s nice to live in the shade, while you position the solar panels out in the summer sunshine. This is
Solar Yard Lights… Know Before You Buy
Avoid disappointment and landfill fodder. Learn about the micro off-grid world of solar yard lights.
Goal Zero Yeti Battery Packs: Making Connections
In this posting, I hope to shed some light on the task of making solar connections to the Goal Zero Yeti series of portable power packs. Since Goal Zero products are constantly evolving, I will try my best to keep
Flexible Solar Review
Edited by : Graham Morfitt (BSc Physics) Maybe you’ve seen them. Flexible solar modules without aluminum frames, glued directly onto the roofs of vans & trailers, or boat decks. Ever wonder what they’re all about, and whether they would be
Best Deal On Solar Modules
How do you define the Best Deal on solar modules? Is it simply a matter of a big discount off the regular price? Or do you go one step further and do the quick calculation of $/Watt? Or, perhaps you
Disposable AA’s Are Costing You Plenty
It’s all too easy. Grab a package of Duracell or Energizer AA’s at the checkout. They’re only a few dollars. You need them for your radio or flashlight, and they say on the package that they’re good for 5-10 years.
How “Green” Is Your Green Energy?
When it comes to green, renewable energy, solar PV tends to hold the high ground. More quiet than wind generators. More accessible than micro hydro. Just install your solar panels and sit back & read the good news every time
Choosing The Best Solar Panel
Choosing the best solar panel is not simply a matter of getting the most watts for the cheapest price. Even if we could assume that all manufacturers produce equipment of equal quality, the old adage of “For every job, there
Showdown : Thin Film vs Crystalline
As should be expected, a common question I am asked is: Thin Film vs Crystalline…Â what is the best solar panel to use? There are essentially two types: Thin Film & Crystalline. Each have their own sub groups, like amorphous silicone