Off-grid systems are stand alone systems that are not connected to the utility power grid.
At Quantum, we customize our off-grid systems so that they can always meet the needs of the customer. Projects range in size from simple livestock water pumping station to large systems capable of supplying electrical power to a home or commercial building.
How it Works
Components
Solar module: A series of silicon cells that are covered by a sheet of protective tempered glass. Through the PV effect, these cells convert solar radiation into DC electricity. A PV array consists of a number of modules strung together electrically.
Charge controller: An electronic device that regulates the charge going into the battery bank. Some charge controllers come with added features such as digital displays, maximum power point trackers (MPPTs), and low voltage disconnects.
Battery bank: Stores the energy produced by your solar array for future use. The battery bank can be as small as two batteries or much larger depending on the size of the electrical load.
Inverter: An electronic device that converts DC power into household AC electricity.
Generator: A backup generator is usually required for larger, off-grid systems. In Ontario, we get 6 times as much sun in June as we do in December, so a year round off-grid system requires some generator battery charging in the depths of winter.
Process
1. The solar modules convert solar radiation into DC electricity.
2. The electricity runs through the wires to a charge controller.
3. The charge controller stores the energy in the battery bank, and protects the batteries from over-charging.
4. The batteries can now send power to DC loads (12-48V) or send it through an inverter to power common household appliances (120 or 240 VAC).
How long should my off-grid system last?
The standard lifetime of a system is 20 to 25 years; however, with proper maintenance, it can easily surpass this.
How much will my off-grid system cost?
Cost ranges depending on the size and complexity of the system. Small cottage systems can start at as low as $8000, but a full four-season property would be closer to $45,000-$50,000 as there would be a need for battery banks and a generator. Please visit our Site Evaluation page if you would like a firm quote or give us a call at 613-546-2326 to further discuss!
What are the maintenance requirements for my Off-Grid system?
Service requirements vary depending on the type of system. Lead acid battery systems require regular monitoring, at a minimum on an annual basis. Service visits are available at a cost of $175 per visit.
How long does it take to complete the installation?
The typical cottage system takes one day; installation time for residential systems varies depending on the size of the residence.
Warranty
All of our systems carry a complete two year warranty on labour. Equipment warranties vary from supplier to supplier.
Payment Terms
A 33% deposit is due upon signing, with the remainder upon completion of installation.
Other common questions about an off-grid power system:
How large will I need my off-grid system to be?
The size of the system depends on the size and number of electrical loads you want to power. If you only have a few loads (water pump, septic, fridge, few electronics) you would require a smaller system than a property that has many heavy loads (water pump, septic, fridge, freezer, electric car, many electronics, AC, etc).
When is it advantageous to switch to an off-grid system?
We suggest an Off-Grid system when the cost of installing Hydro lines exceeds the amount a system would cost. Hydro generally charges about $15,000 per pole to have them installed onto your property. This can quickly add up if you have a laneway into your cottage or home! If you already have Hydro in place, it can be a very personal decision to go completely off-grid. We can help you with that choice!
Will the panels still be installed on my roof?
For a small system, with optimal sunlight (no shading) a roof mount will work. For larger off-grid, four-season systems, we prefer to have a ground mount on a fixed angle rack. We do this to have plenty of space for panels, as well as create the ideal angle for winter sunlight collection.
