What is the Optimal Power Source?
POWER GENERATION
One universal truth about the electricity we use is that ALL power must come from some source of “generation”. Power Generators are used across a wide spectrum of applications ranging from a portable gas generator at a remote campground to a large Nuclear Power Plant that provides power for an entire region.
“Grid or Utility“ Power
All Power Plants require some type of energy source to operate their AC Generators. Common types of energy sources include Coal, Hydro, Nuclear, Natural Gas and even Diesel fuel.
Power Plants typically use a network of transmission lines and transformers to send large amounts of AC power over great distances to its destination. The power in this type of circuit is often referred to as “Utility” or “Grid” power.
Large Power Plants operating in industrialized nations usually have redundant systems, are well-maintained, and are rarely subject to interruptions in power flow from the Generation Plant to the user. Power Plants in underdeveloped countries, however, are prone to frequent failure. Many Utility-Grids in these countries have single points of failure that range from poorly maintained transmission lines to Generation Plants that simply run out of fuel.
“Renewable” Power
Harvesting power from the surrounding environment requires the proper choice of technology. A well-designed Renewable Power System provides the best return for the investment. Renewable energy often relies on environmental resources that are in a constant state of flux, therefore it is a “game of averages” when determining how much power can be produced.
“Portable“ Power
Power in a Portable Power circuit usually flows in a “Closed Circuit”. A Closed Circuit is one that includes methods of generating power and the appliances that consume power.
“Solar Stik™” Power
The Solar Stik™ System is primarily designed to provide Power for small portable applications, and offers an “Open Architecture”. Open Architecture allows the system to incorporate multiple sources of power and appliance loads. The system also incorporates varying levels of “Power Management”, which provides the operator with a seamless flow of power throughout the circuit. A Solar Stik™ System is often referred to as a “Micro Grid” because it includes multiple technologies operating in a Closed Circuit.
“Usable” Power
The power in in any Solar Stik™ System is referred to as “Usable” Power. “Usable Power” occurs when the correct balance between Power Generation and Appliance Load is achieved in the electrical circuit. Usable Power is often measured by the amount of Watts that can be used to power a Load in the circuit over a 24-Hour period.
Selecting Power Sources for an Application
Power Sources are often selected based on the location of the power requirement. So, with so many evolving technologies, just how does one choose the right power source for a given application? There are three steps to successful procurement and operation of any System:
A properly-designed System provides the operator with as much renewable power as possible, based on the environmental conditions where it is used, while also providing the ”Open Architecture” necessary to integrate traditional technologies (such as fuel-driven generators) into the circuit.
The ‘Open Architecture’ allows the integration of technologies from a wide range of power solutions, including traditional sources or technologies from other manufacturers.
The Solar Stik™ Website provides a wide range of educational materials as well as comparisons between common technologies. The operator can use these materials to gain an understanding of products, the technology behind them, and how they “fit into the puzzle” of a functioning system. The information on the Solar Stik™ website can also be used to qualify competing systems in the marketplace.
What Power Generation Device(s) Do I Needed?
The most important factor in choosing the best Solar Stik™ System is understanding how a Solar Stik™ System works. The user should have a basic understanding of DC based electrical systems, and learn how to determine their total power requirement before selecting or building a System.
If assistance is needed, the Solar Stik™ Technical Team is available to help. Our Team prides itself on developing relationships with customers. By focusing on our clients’ needs, we can advise or custom-tailor solutions that meet or exceed those requirements. It is our goal to provide the best renewable-technology consulting, service, & products along with a complete understanding of the system that is purchased.
Grid Power -
In most industrialized regions of the world, AC utility power is reliable; however, in third world or under-developed nations, the AC Grid is often prone to frequent outages or rolling blackouts.
Using a properly-sized battery system to store power from a utility source allows the operator to “bridge” the power gap (in the form of an Uninterrupted Power Supply, or UPS). A UPS is the simplest method to keep critical gear functioning during a utility power grid outage.
Traditional Gas or Diesel Power Generator -
For operators with close proximity to supply sources where Petroleum or other Hydro-Carbon based fuels are easily acquired. Diesel, Gasoline, and other fuel-driven generators can be used based on the available resources to the operator.
Solar Power -
Daylight is prevalent across most of the earth’s surface. Solar Panels operate best when exposed to direct sunlight, but will produce power even in cloudy or low-light conditions, making solar a guaranteed daily source of power even in the most remote, austere regions where other power sources may be difficult to support, or prone to failure.
Solar Power gear should always be the first option when selecting independent power generation equipment, whether the system is for personal use or part of a larger solution that incorporates multiple generation technologies. Supplemental (SECONDARY) Power Generation equipment can be added in accordance to what other resources may be available to the operator. Several examples of secondary independent power sources are described below.
Wind Power -
Wind power is an excellent SUPPLEMENT to solar power, except in certain circumstances where wind speed is constant and will (on average) produce more power than solar on a daily basis. There is a geographical component that should be considered when choosing wind as a supplemental power source. For example, wind is typically more prevalent in higher altitudes, on shorelines, or on open plains. However, if there is no wind, then a wind generator will produce NO power at all.
Water (Hydro) Power -
Micro-Hydro power generation is a great resource, and can be an extremely reliable source of renewable energy, but it requires operation in close proximity to running rivers or streams. One relatively small water turbine will produce power non-stop, as long as running water is available, no matter what the weather.
Fuel Cell -
For operators with close proximity to supply sources where Methanol or other fuels are easily acquired, then Fuel Cells and other fuel-driven generators can be chosen based on the available resources to the operator.
