Offgrid
An off-grid system is sometimes called a Stand alone Power System (SAPS) or Remote Area Power Systems (RAPS). These are generally used where access to a grid connection is either not possible or prohibitively expensive. Some people choose to have their own system, even if a grid connection is possible, because they want to be in total control of their energy useage. Because of the battery cost Freedom Energy would, in general, not advise this approach unless you have a particular wish or reason to.
Living with a SAPS involves developing some degree of energy discipline because, unlike the grid, the capacity of the system is limited. A user must learn to operate within the limits of the system or utilise the services of the backup generator. Like a car, systems can be configured in all shapes and sizes so a design process will be undertaken to size the system to meet your needs.
Cost saving benefits
A SAPS can be considerably lower in price than a grid connection if you are building in a location that does not have ready access to the grid. In some locations this could be as little as a few hundred meters away. Once a system is installed the running cost is generally the battery ageing costs and the fuel & maintenance costs for the backup genset. The larger & better the system, the lower the generator operating costs. The system will generally be incorporated into, or located in close proximity to, the building it will service so there is not a great deal of cost in underground cables. You will not be subject to power custs unless you mis-manage the system. No monthly bills which seem to be increasing all the time.
Good for the environment
The compnents of a system are selected for quality and long service life. The only part that has a relatively finite life is the battery and when this is replaced the old battery is sent away for recycling. Most good photovoltaic modules carry 25 year performance warranties with a working life well in excess of this. Manufacturers are increasingly striving to make products that are easier to recycle.
With your SAPS you are taking responsibility for your electricity consumption. You are not relying on services with high infrastructure costs, an infrastructure that is coming under increasing pressure. Electricity is being generated and stored at the point of use rather than being transmitted over many hundreds of kilometers with the associated losses.
Hopefully the operation of a SAPS will raise your awareness of other aspects of your life that are reliant on outside services and enable you to make choices that reduce your impact on the environment. Part of the design process will involve discussions about energy efficiency so it is desireable that these talks take place before any fixed decisions are made about your building or appliances.
