In recent years, the Azores have stood out as an example in preserving their natural heritage of rare beauty. However, despite their untouched beauty, the region faces unique challenges regarding energy due to its geographic isolation. In this article, we explore the implementation of a 100% autonomous off-grid system in the region, highlighting the use of two Studer XTM inverters and Studer VS charge controllers with the remote Studer RCC-03 controller, the reuse of batteries from damaged electric cars, and the use of DMEGC 490FB photovoltaic panels.
The Energy Challenge in the Azores
The Azores, located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, present a unique challenge when it comes to energy production and distribution. Their geographical location and variable weather conditions make renewable energy an attractive and necessary option for energy sustainability.
However, the intermittency of renewable sources such as solar and wind energy requires effective energy storage systems to ensure a constant supply. This is where the 100% autonomous off-grid or large-scale storage system comes into play, but that is for a different set of needs and realities.
The Studer Technology Studer
Studer Innotec represents excellence in the world of renewable energies, with a track record of Swiss innovation and quality for over 30 years. Specialized in the development and production of high-performance energy inverters and battery chargers, the brand is known for its reliability and efficiency in managing energy systems. It is the go-to brand for off-grid installations, even in the most inhospitable environments, from the Pyrenees to the Sahara Desert.
This system consists of 3 MPPTs Variotrack VS 70, each capable of up to 4000Wp of production, and 2 Xtender XTM 4000 inverters, for a total of 8000W of AC output. This makes it a versatile and adaptive system to meet the customer's needs, both in domestic and electric vehicle charging. It ensures that the customer and their family are prepared for any changes in energy consumption, both in the present and the future. Furthermore, the Studer system can always be altered, as Studer does not have the limitation of generations that other brands have, where devices are only compatible with those of the same generation. With Studer, a 20-year-old inverter is compatible with any from the new generation.
DMEGC 490FB Photovoltaic Panels
The two main criteria for selecting the modules were efficiency and aesthetics, as the owner did not want the modules to compromise the beauty of the location while ensuring the system's profitability. Therefore, Full Black modules (completely black) were chosen, each with 490W, and they come with a 25-year warranty, not only from the manufacturer but also from a German credit institution, validating the extreme quality and criteria that DMEGC upholds throughout its portfolio.
The system consists of 24 modules with a total of 11,760Wp. Given the installation's location in the Azores and the constant weather changes, an oversizing of the PV system is necessary to ensure the house always has the maximum available for consumption and the capacity to charge the system's batteries.
Reuse of Electric Car Batteries
Finally, the system also includes 6 modules with a capacity of 6.85kWh, recycled from a damaged Volkswagen ID3. This solution is becoming increasingly popular, but it comes with inherent risks due to working with external BMS systems and the lack of necessary testing and compatibility.
However, in this specific case, it has proven to be successful, and the system has been functioning smoothly since its installation.
Benefits of the Off-Grid System in the Azores
1. Environmental Sustainability: The use of renewable sources, such as DMEGC 490FB photovoltaic panels, and the reuse of batteries from damaged electric cars significantly contribute to reducing carbon emissions and preserving the natural environment of the Azores.
2. Energy Autonomy: With an off-grid system, the residents of the Azores can enjoy independent energy supply, even in remote areas, reducing their reliance on conventional energy grids.
3. Cost Savings: Reusing electric car batteries and the efficiency of DMEGC 490FB solar panels reduce the costs of purchasing new batteries and dependence on fossil fuels, making the system more accessible and economically advantageous.
4. Resilience: The off-grid system is more resilient to energy supply interruptions caused by extreme weather events, increasing the resilience of the local community.
5. Example of Sustainability: The successful implementation of this system can serve as an inspiring example for other regions facing similar challenges.
Conclusion
The implementation of a 100% autonomous off-grid system in the Azores, with Studer technology, combined with DMEGC 490FB photovoltaic panels and an appropriately sized storage system tailored to individual customer needs, represents a significant step toward a more sustainable and resilient future. This system not only addresses the unique energy challenges of the region but also demonstrates the power of innovation and sustainability in the pursuit of a greener world. With the assistance of SolarShop, the Azores can continue to be an example of balance between nature and technology.
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