Alternative energy for a private home: types and features of modern technology

Alternative energy is special in that resources are obtained from renewable sources: water, wind or solar energy. For this purpose, special equipment and systems are used. Consider a few of the most popular types of alternative energy.

Solar Power Plants

Photovoltaic modules, which contain silicon, are installed on the roofs of houses. They convert the sun's energy into electric current. Solar panels are chosen according to energy needs. Powerful systems can provide a private home with electricity, heating, hot water.

Types of solar power plants for the house:

• On-Grid systems are connected to the power grid of the house. If the energy is not enough, it is obtained from the central supply. If there is a surplus of solar energy, it can be sold to a supply company. There are two electricity meters, one for input and one for output.
• The stand-alone solar power plant is installed independently of the industrial grid. The system has batteries in which energy can be stored.
• Hybrid home power plants can operate as On-Grid systems or stand-alone systems.

Solar home power plants produce energy at all times of the year, in cloudy weather and during precipitation. However, the amount of energy is highest on sunny days. That is why systems with batteries are chosen. They store electricity and it can be spent on cloudy days.

Wind generators

Wind generators produce electricity from wind energy. They convert it into the mechanical energy of the rotor, and then, thanks to special devices, into electrical energy.

Since winds have different strengths and there are periods of doldrums, wind generators choose more powerful than the minimum power required. If a small house needs to generate electricity at 2-3 kW, then install equipment for 5-6 kW. It is important to consider that the wind turbine generator with such capabilities is a high price. It can cost more than buying electricity from businesses.

It is desirable that the wind generator for the house has such characteristics:

• Low-noise. This is an important factor if the wind turbine is located near residential buildings.
• A quality braking system that activates in strong winds to protect the equipment from breakage.
• Installation on the ground or on the building.
• Installation without the use of concrete. So installation of the wind generator is less expensive and faster.
• Additional functions: automation, alarms, etc.

Solar plants for water heating

Such systems are used to heat water for household needs. A tank of water is connected to the solar panel. The system generates energy, which with the help of special devices heats the liquid in the tank. From there it is fed into the house. Choose a tank with high insulating properties, then the water temperature is maintained for 12 hours with a loss of only 1-2 degrees.

Types of solar stations for water heating:

• Seasonal solar panels are used only in the warm season.
• Vacuum solar collectors are used all year round. They can withstand low temperatures.
• Flat solar panels are used most often. They are usually mounted on roofs. They work all year round.

A private home can be supplied with electricity using alternative sources completely or partially. The type of energy production is chosen depending on the availability of natural resources and financial opportunities.