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System lay-out

Solar power usually is associated with a sense of high-tec. In reality, it is quite simple and appropriate technology. A solar power system consists of solar panels, batteries and a charge controller. Daylight that strikes the solar panel, will be converted into electricity directly. The more light, the more power. By storing the power in a battery, it is also after sunset available.

system-layout

▲ General set-up of the solar power system. Spider in the web is the charge controller. This device takes care of the battery: Not too full charged (switching off the solar panels) and not too deep discharged (switching off the appliances). The battery provides direct current (DC). By means of an inverter the system also provides alternate current (AC).

A solar power system that is applied in a standardised way for domestic uses, is the 'solar home system' (SHS). The picture below reveals such a SHS (right) and a solar powered lamp post as well (left). Both systems are erected in the village of Sukatani in West Java in Indonesië. The batteries are put in the white box at the right pole.

solar system in real life Solar home systeem in Indonesia