I need information resources for a hybrid solar/wind system?

Question

I am building a small cabin (500sf) where grid power is not available. I need information not a salesman's pitch. Anybody have any experience?? Thanks!

Answer 1

Your hybrid system would have to depend on the location where you are building your cabin.  If sun is abundant all year around, solar powered system is advisable.  Solar cells are not so expensive now as before.  If the wind in the area is normal, there are inexpensive designs for a wind powered system.  Both system has to store the power in battery banks.

Both system may easily be used in tandem storing energy to a single battery bank provided that your storage (battery banks) has enough capacity.  Too much capacity would also mean higher cost.  So the battery bank should just be enough to last until the next charging time (or cycle) normally every day.

Check your planned power requirement and match it with the system you might need.

For emergency cases, you must have a small engine driven generator set for lights and whatever emergency equipment you might have, just in case your batteries run out of power.

For suppliers of these system(s), you should check first for any local distributors and manufacturers closest to your cabin.  It would make a difference at maintenance ( or other after sales services).