Renewable energy is energy derived from resources that are regenerative or cannot be depleted. For this reason, renewable energy sources are fundamentally different from fossil fuels, and do not produce as many greenhouse gases and other pollutants as fossil fuel combustion. Mankind's traditional uses of wind, water, and solar energy are widespread in developed and developing countries; but the mass production of electricity using renewable energy sources has become more commonplace recently, reflecting the major threats of climate change due to pollution, exhaustion of fossil fuels , and the environmental, social and political risks of fossil fuels and nuclear power .

Energy Efficiency & Conservation

Our biggest untapped source of energy is the energy we waste. Using energy wisely saves you money while business and industry see increased profits and productivity, so conserve energy and you can save money and help to make our environment healthier. Energy efficiency is a primary, cost-effective step in implementing renewable energy options.

Every dollar spent on conservation = five dollars spent on generation

To determine power system requirements you should determine which devices need to be powered simultaneously and what the starting requirements. The wattage chart below is provided to assist you. Remember that with simple power management techniques, a small power system can provide adequate power for home or recreational applications.

Basic System Sizing Guidelines for Beginners

Here is our System Sizing Guide to assit you in calculating your renewable energy power system. These get easier to do after you've been through them a couple of times and don't hesitate to call if you need guidance. This System Sizing Guide can be edited for various configurations of renewable energy systems,

Click here to Download >> System Sizing Guide.doc

Outline of Guide Steps

Step 1 - Load Calculations Table
Step2 - Energy Budget
Step3- Inverter Selection
Step4- Battery Sizing
Step5- Charge Controller
Step6- PV Array Sizing
Step7- Generator Selection

Complete the Load Calculation Table using the Appliance Power Consumption Chart information determint the usage estimates for your particular case. Use the data from the Loads Calculations Table and enter the appropriate numbers as require to complete the Energy Budget calculations. Note that some of the numbers may be reused at different steps.

Additional Power Considerations

Some appliances need a "surge" of energy when starting. This means that the amount of electrical power needed to start the appliance may exceed the amount needed to maintain its use. Electrical appliances and tools normally come with a label indicating voltage, cycles/Hz, amperage (amps) and electrical power needed to run the appliance or tool. Check with your nearest dealer or service center with questions regarding power surge of certain appliances or power tools.

Advanced Project Analysis