06-12-2008, 04:34 AM
quote:
Originally posted by JWFITZ
8 panels would be a maximum of 800 watts, if they were big ones, and half that figure is more realistic. The inverter reflects that. So, we're looking at a .5 kw array that will make a super optimistic amount of 5 kwh of electricity a day. That will cost you 5 x .45c= two dollars and fifty cents a day. Assuming it's never rained or been cloudy in the last eight years you've got yourself 912 dollars of grid power a year, for a cost of nearly 3000 bucks a year. That's better than the 2 dollars a kw I offered up off the cuff, but dang expensive electricity at 1.50 a kw at the absolute minimum. The real figure I expect is about double that.
Hmmmm.... I will start to wade out in deep water but here goes... the first system I talked about runs 2 houses (1000 SF each) with each having 1 fridge, 1 coffee maker, 1 microwave, 1 water pump and lights each plus 2 yurts with coffee maker and microwave, and asst lights and other stuff like cell phone charger & PC, washer/dryer plus there is enough power to run a HUGE stereo system and accessories for their weekly parties - basically 4 bedrooms (they are a B&B and I just have too many visitors!).
My house (2400 SF) with 3 fridges, 1 WH, 1 stove, 2 microwaves, 2 coffee makers, and same asst lights, cell phone chargers, TVs, 1 washer (dryer is gas) and PC's runs about $450-500/mo for 6-8 people (6 bedrooms & my office).
I dont get the numbers well but I do see these as being pretty equal usuage but the cost looks like theirs $2900 + fuel (system over 8 years) and mine is $4800-$6000/yr.
So how would I could I figure out what they use (they are my friends and would allow me to be neile) - cause I know what my KWH usuage is on my bill.
Update - my friend said the panels are 130 watts x 8 panels = 1040 watts.