Electrical current comes in two basic forms. AC or alternating current is supplied to residential and commercial buildings through utility grids. Home appliances and anything plugged into a wall socket use AC power.
Batteries are used to supply DC power in a variety of applications. Small batteries are used in flashlights, toys, watches and similar small electronics. Larger battery banks can be used to power electric vehicles or to store power generated with solar panels or wind turbines.
Differences in Inverters
In the case of solar or wind power, an inverter is often a critical component used in residential applications. According to Green Team Direct, there are two different kinds of inverters normally employed with renewable energy systems.
- Modified sine wave or square wave inverters are less expensive. However, these inverters are generally not suited for residential electricity use.
- Pure or true sine wave inverters provide quality current for use with electronics and appliances.
Beside these general differences, there are many choices left to make when purchasing an inverter. Different inverters are available for grid-connected use, where excess power is sold back to the utility provider, and off-the-grid systems.
Power Inverters for Residential Solar and Wind Systems
With a grid-connected wind system, according to WSE Technologies, the inverter must be able to rectify the 3-phase AC current produced by the turbine to DC. The resulting DC current can be stored in batteries. Whether stored, or used directly, DC current must be converted back to AC before it can be exported to the grid or used in any residential application.
It is a little simpler with a solar power system, since the current from the panels is DC. This power can be regulated through a controller to directly charge the batteries. Power from the batteries or solar panels is inverted to AC for residential usage or to sell back to utility providers.
Designing Alternative Energy Systems
The complex nature of components in both solar and wind energy systems requires professional design. In order to reap the greatest benefits from any renewable energy system, engineering calculations should be performed to optimize equipment selection. Professional installation also insures the warranty on expensive electronic equipment will remain valid.
Since the end product of either of these systems is electricity, proper safety procedures and local regulations must be followed at all times. There are a growing number of companies supplying both components and installation of renewable energy systems.
Renewable energy continues to provide many sources of pollution free electricity. Experts agree that wind and solar energy have valuable places in the world's energy portfolio. As an added bonus, governments are providing more tax incentives for green energy products. Renewable energy can not only power households and save money, but also help preserve the environment for future generations.
Justin Novak - I graduated from Michigan Technological University in December of 2007 with a Bachelors of Science in Mechanical Engineering. My ...
