With increasing levels of instability from our electricity supplier, it’s no surprise that more and more homeowners are contemplating a solar power system for home. We, unfortunately, live in a time and state where there is no shortage of reasons to go solar. It’s environmentally friendly, reduces the need to rely solely on the national power utility for power, and saves costs, to name a few.
And while the reasons are plentiful and many people understand the basic premise of such a solar system, it’s worth knowing the complete ins and outs of a solar power system for home, more so if you’re considering a system yourself. We aim to provide a comprehensive overview of what a solar system is, how it works, the components involved, and how it can ultimately benefit you. In this guide we will cover it all and then some.
Keep reading as we unravel everything from the elements that you need to build your system to what the process of generating power entails to help you to make an informed decision.
What Is A Solar And Battery System?
First things first, we have to establish what exactly a “solar and battery system” is. A solar and battery system is a hybrid system that can make use of numerous power generation and storage elements to provide electricity. The system comprises solar panels, battery banks, and an inverter. It can also be supplemented with a generator if need be in instances of long periods without sunlight to generate electricity.
The Components
When it comes to installing a solar power system for home, there are four important components are required to get the system up and running, and these components work in unison to provide a reliable supply of solar energy. These include
- Solar Panels
- Inverters
- Batteries
- Mounting Systems
Solar Panels
Solar panels are perhaps the most well-known component of a solar energy system and the element that most people will associate when thinking of solar power as they are the most visible. To put it simply, solar panels work by harnessing the power of sunlight through a process called the photovoltaic effect. Each solar panel consists of multiple photovoltaic cells that absorb photons from sunlight, which generates electrons. The electrons then flow through a circuit that produces direct current (DC) electricity. The electrical conductors within the solar panels capture this generated electricity, which can then be either used immediately or harnessed, for instance, in batteries.
Inverter
The inverter’s primary function is to convert the direct current (DC) electricity that is generated by solar panels, into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is the standard form of electricity used in homes and businesses. Without an inverter, a solar power system for home is essentially obsolete.
Batteries
Batteries play a crucial role in a solar power system for home. They function by storing excess electricity generated by the solar panels for use later when your home experiences load shedding or power cuts. They enable homes and businesses to have a reliable and consistent power supply, even when sunlight is not available.
Mounting System
An often overlooked and forgotten element of a solar power system for home is the mounting system. Mounting systems secure the solar panels to the underlying component, usually the roof, over a long period of harsh outdoor conditions, like rain, wind, and hail. Typically, the modules are securely fastened to the structure which, depending on the selection, could be of a bolted or foundation type or merely weighted down on the surface underneath (ballasted option).
It’s also important to bear in mind that properly installed solar panels can generate more energy. Mounting systems do not only act as providers of structural strength for the modules but they also significantly influence the total system costs and efficiency of the PV array. The panels’ orientation and angle should be positioned optimally so that sunlight exposure can be maximised.
Alumo Energy: Your Solar Power System For Home Provider
When it comes to choosing a solar system for home, Alumo Energy is the expert you can rely on to get your energy independence. Over and above utilising premium technology, and expertly trained and qualified installation teams, we also offer unparalleled payment flexibility. At Alumo Energy, we are aware that going solar on an upfront basis can be a costly exercise that might be out of reach for the majority of people.
We know that flexibility is everything and it’s for this very reason that we provide a multitude of ways for our clients to make payment towards their solar power systems. These are namely rent, buy, and expand.
Rent (With the option to own)
With our renting option, you’re able to enjoy the benefits of a solar power system for home immediately with a limited upfront investment, without having to overextend yourself financially. Throughout the agreement, Alumo Energy owns the system until the end of the term, or until a buyout is possible at any stage. The best of all is that the process is simple; all you need to do is have your credit application approved, agree to the rental contract, get switched on, and pay your monthly rental fee.
There are numerous benefits to opting for a rental solar system from Alumo Energy. We provide annual on-site maintenance to ensure that your solar panel system is always operating optimally. We also have our dedicated and professional support teams available to assist with any faults, issues, or questions should they arise. But ultimately, the biggest advantages are the savings on electricity costs as well as not being inconvenienced by power outages – and you can’t put a price on that!
Buy
Buying a solar power system for home outright is a great investment in the long run if you’re able to do so. While the initial upfront cost may seem substantial, the sooner you are able to break free from the unstable grid, the better. The ever-increasing electricity costs would mean that you will eventually be saving money and that the system has essentially paid for itself.
Once we have established exactly what you need in a solar power system, we provide a quote – you approve and pay the deposit, and then we come and install your new solar energy system. Once your system is up and running, you are able to add to and upgrade your system as you deem necessary. And again, not having to be disrupted by power outages is a freedom that doesn’t have a price tag.
Expand-As-You-Go
With Expand-As-You-Go, you can do things your way. The beauty of this option is that you can start as small as you want and scale your system up in your own time. This gives you, and us, the freedom to monitor expenditures over time and determine which upgrades will be the most appropriate for your unique situation and budget. It’s a win-win!
The Alumo Energy Solar Solution Process
We have a tried and tested process in place to make the installation of a solar power system for home as seamless as possible. We start with a consultation where we determine your exact requirements to ensure a solution that best fits you. We then have our engineers design your system layout, after which installation can commence. Once the installation has been completed, we commission trusted in-house electricians to ensure that the installation complies with all applicable standards. Lastly, we provide annual on-site maintenance (for solar rental agreements only) while you enjoy all the benefits of not having to depend on electricity providers.
So, no matter your preferred reasons for wanting to go solar, you can rest assured that we’re committed to providing you with high-quality service and support throughout your solar power journey. You can count on us to provide expert advice, customised solutions for every circumstance and/or budget, top-rated equipment, and responsive customer service like no other. So, what are you waiting for? Let Alumo Energy get you switched on today!