Ok, I just spoke to a street vendor who has music, cappiccino (sp?) machine, lights and refrigeration all running off a solar panel that is about 18 by 36 inches (I’m guessing). Assuming he’s not pulling my leg, what kind of set up is needed and what’s the savings? I own a small condo and use about 1000 to 2000 kwh per month over the course of a year it seems. Is solar power for appliances, or as agumentation for appliances, not technologically and financially feasible for the average homeowner like me? Or is it just a matter of getting educated and putting in the elbow grease?
Are all of his appliances running at the same time?
18" X 36"? I am guessing it produces a maximum power of around 60 watts. The average power is less, of course. I would assume the average power is around 40 watts.
As far as using a PV array… it depends what your goal is. If your goal is to save money, then stick with grid power.
Is he running off of a battery system that is recharged by solar?
Really? Can you elaborate please?
I have a 6700 watt Solar system on my roof. I had it installed with the help of the State 2 years ago. They payed 70% of the cost. The estimate payback on the system is 8-12 years. This is not a short term investment or a particularly great investment. I did it as a social investment.
All that said, it made me very happy when my last 2 electric bills for a 2200 square foot house and a family of four were $11 and $18.
You need to look into if DC or the local electric company offers any sort of deal to help with the installation cost. Many states have programs where they pay 50% to 70% of the cost and you become part of the Solar Grid.
Ask me any questions you like, but at this time it is a not a quick solution with a quick payback.
Jim {BTW: My Email is public}
A legal issue. You would be well-advised to check with your condo board before investing in anything like this. They may not permit you to install such devices on the exterior of the buildings.
PV cells are still quite expensive. With an expected life-cycle of twenty years, the costs of financing, installing and maintaining them may exceed the savings projected.
heres some directions for a solar powered generator i found once… doesnt seem too expensive or difficult.
Yes. It’s all self contained in his street vendor cart. He’s not apart of the grid while he’s on the street, but he may recharge the battery while he’s at home off of the grid.