Solar power

Notes on putting together a solar power system on a low budget

It looks like a good starting strategy would be:

1. Get a medium-small charge controller (7A/150w, for 12v batteries - $30 + $6 s/h
2. Get a single unit of whatever delivers the most wattage per dollar -- currently this panel (15w, on sale for $60, normally $100) (similar panel)
3. Get a single deep cycle 12v battery
4. Dismantle a partly-working UPS to use as an inverter (eventually, bank these to provide more wattage as batteries are added)

Compare this kit -- maybe the price works out better.

Useful documents:

• buyers' guide: inverters
• buyer's guide: solar power

Local companies:

• Solar Solutions, Inc., Page Rd.
• Skyward Solar Power, Hillsborough Rd.

Online stores:

• Northern Tool
• RealGoods
• The Solar Store