Trace gridtied [RE-wrenches]

[Backwoods Solar Electric Systems]

Jason: We have been testing the RV Solar Boost 50 controllers all winter
(from RV Power products in Encinitas, CA)  .  I installed about 900 watts
solar some 200 feet from our 12 volt battery bank as winter supplement,
using a 24 volt solar module demo trailer that would otherwise be parked out
of the sun all winter. To make the 200 foot distance to a 12 volt battery
bank, I divided the array in two sections 450 watts each, at 24 volts,
brought them in on 4 gauge wire at 24 volts and used the Solar Boost 50
control.  This unit has a feature where you can feed it 24 volt nominal and
it converts to 12 volt charging output doubling the amps, and gives MPPT as
well.  Actually we started with a Solar converters product on one array and
the Boost 50 on the other.

I found the Solar converters control to be very versatile with features for
the more technical designer, but packaged poorly for marketing, and we had
continuing problems with adjustments and function. The Solar Boost 50 is
well packaged, with optional digital metering showing input current and
converted output current.  It does the 24 to 12  conversion well.  The MPPT
gave good gain of course in cold weather at high power levels, but in low
light conditions there was actual loss of power input to output. I switched
both arrays to this product and have had no problem in function or
adjustment.

Steve Willey   www.backwoodssolar.com
Backwoods Solar Electric Systems
A catalog business on a mountain
2 miles from utility lines,
powered entirely by our catalog products.
IF UTILITY POWER IS 1/2 MILE OR MORE FROM YOUR SITE,
get our free 160 page solar-electric Planning Guide/Catalog.
(Your postal address required - Our list is never given or sold).
Phone(208)263-4290  Fax (208) 265-4788  in Idaho, USA


----- Original Message -----
From: Jason Fisher <aurora at toad.net>
To: <RE-wrenches at topica.com>
Sent: Wednesday, April 19, 2000 4:43 AM
Subject: Re: Trace gridtied [RE-wrenches]


> Wrenches,
>
> Thanks for the good discussions on the LBX vs Sell mode.  I think allot
> of good points were made.  I like Kurt's relay examples.  With regards
> to the system voltage point Travis made, has anyone had good or bad
> experiences with any MPPT controllers out there?  I still think that by
> watching the system go up and down, the owners can get a better idea of
> what the solar is producing, and what they are consuming.  I firmly
> agree, however, that the Sell mode is the way to go for clients who want
> a hands-off system.
>
> Anybody know of a simple DC kWhr meter for a PV source (besides the C40
> LCD)?  I've considered trying to make one but I'm more of a cable
> splicer than an electronics solderer.  Anyone else made something like
> this?
>
> Thanks and keep it up.
> --
> Jason Fisher
>
> Aurora Energy
> 86 Conduit St.
> Annapolis, MD 21401
> USA
>
> Voice/ Fax: 410-268-3088
> email: aurora at toad.net
>
>
>
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