tacomaguy20
New Member
I've been reading and watching videos and I'm not sure exactly what would be the best option for me. I haven't bought anything yet, still trying to figure out what I need. I currently live in Phoenix AZ and my power usage is about 16000 kwh per year according to SRP (power company). Most of that power usage comes in the summer from my air conditioning so my power usage fluctuates quite a bit between the summer and winter. SRP shows me the monthly, daily, and even hourly usage and I'm not sure what numbers to base my potential solar system on? Additionally, I believe the city requires me to be tied into the grid so I'm not sure if I can use an off grid system in conjunction with my grid tie in. I guess it's illegal (sort of)? I was considering the off grid blueprints for the two 6500ex inverters above and it sounds like it can be legal under certain circumstances? So hopefully someone can help me figure a few things out. I've put a few questions below that I've been wondering.
1. Is off grid doable and still be tied in some way to the grid? Or should I be looking at a grid tie in system or a hybrid? I do know the difference but I'm not familiar enough with the ins and outs of connecting to my electrical grid and I'm not sure if I am allowed to DIY a grid tie in system. I am familiar with electric in general however. I'd like something I could slowly add to over time to reduce initial costs. Add more panels, add more batteries, etc. and not sure if that matters depending on system.
2. Would it be wise to get a few quotes from local companies to see what they recommend 1st? The cost is a deterrent for me which is why I probably would prefer to do it myself.
3. Should I just take my average monthly usage of 1350 kwh or should I look at my max summertime usage of 2700 kwh to estimate the size of system I need?
4. I was thinking of placement in my garage (on the opposite side of my Electrical panel) but summertime in AZ gets hot and the garage isn't air conditioned. Is that a problem?
1. Is off grid doable and still be tied in some way to the grid? Or should I be looking at a grid tie in system or a hybrid? I do know the difference but I'm not familiar enough with the ins and outs of connecting to my electrical grid and I'm not sure if I am allowed to DIY a grid tie in system. I am familiar with electric in general however. I'd like something I could slowly add to over time to reduce initial costs. Add more panels, add more batteries, etc. and not sure if that matters depending on system.
2. Would it be wise to get a few quotes from local companies to see what they recommend 1st? The cost is a deterrent for me which is why I probably would prefer to do it myself.
3. Should I just take my average monthly usage of 1350 kwh or should I look at my max summertime usage of 2700 kwh to estimate the size of system I need?
4. I was thinking of placement in my garage (on the opposite side of my Electrical panel) but summertime in AZ gets hot and the garage isn't air conditioned. Is that a problem?