Chapter 14
Solar Pumps, Wind Power, Hydro Power, and Batteries in Applications In This Chapter Running pumps directly from PV modules Using batteries when powering small remote cabins, RVs, and boats Considering wind and water power as alternative solar power resources
Y
ou can use portable solar PV systems for cabins, boats, RVs, backups, in-home offices, and outbuildings, such as barns, offices, exercise rooms, and so on. The usual advantages apply: reducing both your electric utility bill and pollution. You can also use PV systems to run well pumps and swimming pool pumps. Well pumps are often located in remote locations, so the use of solar PV for power precludes the need to pay for costly power transmission line runs. Solar powering your swimming pool pump makes sense because the pump will run the hardest when the sun is the brightest, which reflects how the pool itself will be used. Wind and water power are also solar resources, so I describe in general terms when and how both alternatives should be used and point you in the right direction if you decide to pursue them. As with any solar application, energy conservation is the first step. Before specifying your system needs, do an energy audit and take the indicated energy conservation measures (see Chapters 2 and 3). A general rule: Each dollar you save on conservation will save you around $5 on the cost of a small solar-power system. Considering solar alternatives other than electrical PV is also wise. For example, solar water heaters work very well for remote applications. Doit-yourselfers can build batch-style water heaters for very little cost (see Chapters 10 and 12). Chapter 9 includes a good number of small solar systems that you can use independently of other systems.