This is the main page for information related to the off-grid power system at Breezy Pines Island.
Basic System
A Noma Solar kit from Canadian Tire (product No. 011-0004-6) was installed in 2018. Four “Second Life” Lead acid, automotive grade batteries were brought out and used as the energy storage.
Solar Panels
The first panel is a 100W panel. A rail system was installed that can accommodate 4 panels of the same size.
Charge Controller
The charge controller that came with the kit turned out to be a very cheap one. It has a tendency to drop connectivity to the USB and 12 outputs. It was exchanged once under warranty but the replacement did the same thing. This type of solar charge controller runs around $20 or even less on Amazon.
If the solar system grows it would be nice to get a decent charge controller. Current costs in 2023 are around $175 for a MPPT (Monitored Peak Power Technology) that is compatible with Lithium Ion or Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries.
Electrical
There is a 60Watt inverter, which is not capable of running anything beyond a laptop, so a much larger inverted is needed before any real appliances can be used at the cottage.
The 12 volt output, either through the charge controller or directly off the batteries can be wired to run the fridge light if desired. All wiring has been removed due to renovations of the building.
The wiring is not shielded or protected in any way. If a fault is detected it would be easier to trace and examine the wires without protective shielding; secondly it was a cost saving decision at the time. the wires can be shielded and routed through steel conduit in the future if desired.
Storage Devices
The original car batteries were replaced by a deep cycle battery in 2023 by Laurie Hepburn.
Technical Information
A fuse block needs to be installed on the circuit between the solar array on the roof (currently only one panel) and the charge controller. A fuse block with appropriate leads was sent to the cottage in 2023 but not installed.
Maintenance Checklists and Manuals
The battery terminals require annual cleaning: remove each connector and brush with small wire brush. replace and if on hand, use Dielectric grease to coat the terminal posts and leads.
There is a “box” that covers the battery(s) that sit on the veranda. It should be secured in such a way that the wind will not blow it out of place.