12 K solar system?

[Daniel]

A tracking array is 20-40% more efficient than mounting your panels to your roof. Worth every penny.

Daniel R Diamond

[StillHope]

I got the estimate and details.
It looks like it's close to 15K with the permit.

Here's the details :

" (1) Outback transformer =$585
(1) Outback mate =$285
(1) Outback 3048 inverter =$1,850
(1) Midnite DC box with breakers =$720
(4) BP 175 watt panels @ $835 each = $3,340
racking for panels = $260
(8) Rolls/Surrettes S530 batteries,7 year
warranty, 400 Amp Hour @ $385 each =$3,080
Cables for batteries, inverter = $465
Outback combiner box with breakers = $152
Labor, wires, conduit, misc. hardware = $ 1,285

Sub Total = $12,022
Tax = $500.95
Total = $12,522.95

Please add $2,000 if you want a permit on this system, as that will require engineered drawings, electricical contractor involvement, special grounding lugs, grounding (GFI) breaker, special cables for the batteries, etc.
This system should supply a nice amount of power (2.24 KWH/day).
Wiring the pump would cost extra.
This system supplies pure sinewave 120/240 VAC power."


Frankly speaking,I have absolutely no idea about all that tech stuff.

But it will take at least 10 years with my energy spending for the system to pay for itself.

Any thoughts?

[Daniel]

Solarman will do a good job. Go for it. We work with them for time to time on running pumps for off grid applications. However I would get a lot more panels. at least 2x's as many. That system will work, but thats not a lot of power.

Daniel R Diamond

[StillHope]

Thank you,Daniel.

So with more panels would it be realistically close to 20 K ?

[DanielP]

I would suggest a grid-tie system rather than a battery/inverter system. I would ask for a quote on that too.

Dan

[Noel M2]

Hi,

Not sure if you've already uncovered the credits - there are tax credits available for the installation of a system. I think it's 30% for fed and 305% (up to $5000) for HI. This can reduce the effective cost of your system. Of course, you'll need to be able to use the credits.




Noel
http://HiloParadise.com

[mikewj]

Re: Stillhope's question about 'running the meter to zero'. An example would be that at some point you install a solar electric system, tied into the HELCO grid. You note the meter reading when you cut in the switch. When HELCO ratifies the billing, if your meter at that point shows a LOWER number than you started with, you will not receive credit for the difference between the two numbers. In effect any excess electricity you generate would be a free gift to HELCO. That's one reason why sizing the solar system correctly to your usage is so important. Best way to get it right is: 1. Cut down on your usage by using CFLs, shutting off equipment with 'ghost power' requirements when they are not being used (TV, Stereo, chargers, etc.) and 2. Monitoring your usage over a 3 to 6 month period before sizing the solar system.

[Daniel]

Its all a matter of opinion. We like being self sufficient and prefer the batteries. Also when helco goes out on a grid-tie you go out too. You have to have batteries when the power is out for your system to work. Also you still have to pay for the helco connection.

quote:

---

Originally posted by DanielP

I would suggest a grid-tie system rather than a battery/inverter system. I would ask for a quote on that too.

Dan

---

Daniel R Diamond

[DanielP]

Daniel,

I understand.

My preference for grid-tie is based on several things.

The cost, handling, maintainance, storage and replacement of batteries.

The unlimited access to more power than your PV system can generate.
My power goes down very seldom.

The loss of efficiency converting to AC. 30%?

The policy of Helco (and other electric companies too)not paying for excess power that you put into their system needs to be changed by state or federal law.

That's my opinion and worth every dime,

Dan

[mdd7000]

Go to heco.com and do a search on solar rebates.

There are a lot ranging from rebates on almost any new energy star appliance to solar water heating to solar panels.