Renewable Energy
We provide following hybrid solar and wind energy systems. For specific energy needs, please contact us.
|
|
Background on Solar and Wind Power Systems
Solar Power
Sun has been important energy source for our planet. Using sun as an energy source dates back to ancient times. The effective technology to convert the energy from sun to electricity has been recently possible by the inventions of the photovoltaic cells. Geographic location and other economic factors play an important role to choose solar power as an alternative energy source. We specialize in optimizing the design and deployment of such solar and wind power complimentary systems, to maximize their benefits. Our expertise will guarantee maximum results.
Our design will consider that some locations are better than others. Irradiance is a measure of the sun’s power available at the surface of the earth and it averages about 1000 watts per square meter. With typical crystalline solar cell efficiencies around 14-16 that means we can expect to generate about 140-160W per square meter of solar cells placed in full sun. Insulation is a measure of the available energy from the sun and is expressed in terms of “full sun hours” (i.e. 4 full sun hours = 4 hours of sunlight at an irradiance level of 1000 watts per square meter). Obviously different parts of the world receive more sunlight from others, so they will have more “full sun hours” per day.
The following figure shows the solar insulation zone map for the East Coast. It gives a general idea of the “full sun hours per day” for your location.
Figure. Solar insulation map.
Wind Power
We specialize in optimizing the design and deployment of such solar and wind power complimentary systems, to maximize their benefits. Our expertise will guarantee maximum results.
A typical small wind generator has rotor that is directly coupled to the generator which produces electricity either at 120/240 volt alternating current for direct domestic use or at 12/24 volt direct current for battery charging. Larger machines generate 3 phase electricity. There is often a tail vane which keeps the rotor orientated into the wind. Some wind-machines have a tail vane which is designed for automatic furling (turning the machine out of the wind) at high wind speeds to prevent damage. Larger machines have pitch controlled blades (the angle at which the blades meet the wind is controlled) which achieve the same function. The tower is of low solidity to prevent wind interference and are often guided to give support to the tower. The following figure shows the components of a wind turbine.
Figure. The components of a Wind Turbine. Source: Practical Action, 2008