Colvin
Registered Users
New Member
Posts:2
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| 11/03/2008 9:24 AM |
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Anyone know anything about device used to allow net metering?
I am assuming it is some kind of breaker switch, but I do not know who makes them or where to go to buy one. |
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wes
Registered Users
Advanced Member
Posts:637
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| 11/03/2008 6:43 PM |
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First, talk to your local utility company to see if they willl allow net metering, not all do.
Then, they can put in touch with suppliers and installers of their accepted equipment.
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Wes Shelby
Design Systems Group
Murray KY
wandr@ainweb.net |
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Brock
Registered Users
Basic Member
Posts:444
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| 11/03/2008 9:18 PM |
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As Wes said every local utility has it's own set rules and they are all different, so you need to check with your local utility. Some are pretty open as long as the equipment is designed to the UL grid tie and some only approve certain vendors in conjunction with specific installers.
Are you thinking of net metering solar PV or wind or hydro or? |
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Green Bay, WI. - 4 ton horizontal, 16k gallon indoor pool, 1.8kw solar PV setup, 3400 sq ft |
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Colvin
Registered Users
New Member
Posts:2
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| 11/04/2008 10:47 AM |
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Solar. Unfortunately, Houston and Texas do not have friendly laws for green energy. But I was thinking I could experiment with one of these devices and a couple of panels to offset some of my personal energy bill fully realizing I will never be completely independant.
Do you know what this device is called? Is it a "breaker"? Do you know any companies who make these things so I can at least educate myself on them through a little internet research.
Thanks for the help. |
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Alton
Registered Users
Advanced Member
Posts:662
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| 11/04/2008 12:42 PM |
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Colvin,
When you speak of a device for net metering, you may be referring to the type of meter used. I am aware of two types of meters. One type has the ability to run backwards when excess photovolataic solar energy is generated while the other type requires two meters - one for use and the other for sale of extra energy to the utility company. In addition to the net metering, there are also several other items you will need to use DC energy. For instance, you will need a device to convert DC to AC. You also have to have safety devices installed to protect utility line workers. As other people have said, check with your local utility company for their requirements. |
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Alton C. Keown
Residential Designer and Construction Technology Consultant
Auburn, Alabama
E-mail: alton at auburn dot edu |
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aardvarcus
Registered Users
Basic Member
Posts:176
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| 11/12/2008 11:36 AM |
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Here is what you probably need (depending on the utility).
AC disconnect- Allows you to isolate your system from grid power. If the Grid power goes out, it will need to isolate your system, to keep it from electrocuting the people working on the lines.
Net meter- Just like the normal meter on your house, except it can spin backwards. That means any excess you have can be “sold back” to offset any energy you have bought.
Grid Tie Inverter- An inverter designed to sync up with the grid, so that it can sell back power in phase with the grid. You cannot use just any old inverter in a grid tie system.
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EcoQuester
Registered Users
New Member
Posts:3
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| 11/15/2008 2:12 PM |
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I understand little about net metering, except understanding that, bottom line, you are desiring there be less or no loss of extra electricity. None of us want to pay for electricity not being used. In Texas, we are especially vulnerable to that "power factor". A normal house has a power factor of .77 and the electric companies, as I understand it, especially in California and Texas, the power companies require .95 or they will charge you for that loss of electricity. The power factor really becomes a bad issue in peak times, example...when everyone gets up, gets home and when AC are at high use.
I want to share of a very new product that came out that actually 'recycles' the electricity and will get you power factor at .97 or .98.; gives full house surge and spike protection, helps eliminate harmonic noise and EMF and R. I don't really mean to sound like a seller, but I do believe in this product and have the meter comparisons of those who were able to test it for a year...where they save anywhere from 8 - 25% on their electic bill. Alot of it depends if you have alot of motors running in your house will your % be higher....motors such as appliances, ceiling fans, TVs, all those electronics and computers that we now use. The PowerwoRx. The ROI is 18 - 24 months. It is especially important that you read about the specs and even let your electrician see this. pretty amazing little device that hooks to your electric panel, easy for any lisc. electrician to install. |
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