I am reposting the original message for your review because bruninga changed my meaning by taking words out of context. Sorry about the repost but I hate having my work corrupted. thanks and go solar, pat
------- Original Message ------- From : Thomas McGrane[mailto:n2oeq@aceweb.com] Sent : 10/2/2009 10:39:56 PM To : amsat-bb@amsat.org Cc : Subject : FW: OFF grid solar system
The grid is vulnerable as a system. We have to stop always thinking
about being connected to or relying on the utility grid. Think in terms of building an independant 12 volt DC system (low voltage) for the average dwelling to operate independant of the grid by charging batteries from solar or wind and utilizing the energy real time or later from the batteries. It seems everyone has visions of large expensive rooftop systems but starting small and building up over time will reduce the utility bill by substitution. We need to be energy independant on a small scale as well as looking at the big picture. Small systems can easily run lights, TV’s, radios, even a small refridgerator for essentials. You would still need the grid power for large loads like heat, large refridgerators, etc but you can have a seperate system to rely on if you suffer some calamity. With the advent of the “smart” grid, you dont want to be connected to the grid. Remember, the wires are antennas as well as conducting electricity. We owe our reliance on a large electrical system to Nickolai Tesla who developed high voltage alternating current power systems that won out over Thomas Edisons Direct Current system around the turn of the last century. The idea was to minmize power loss over long distances. Therefore we should all promote local or household Low voltage DC solar or wind systems to reduce the use of grid power and for much better reliability. Through the years I have built a very economical system comprised of several solar panels with a capacity of about 130 watts that automatically charge 6 large deep cycle and regular batteries from which I operate some radios , lights and in the event of loss of utility power, a small refridgerator. I also have a couple of cheap store bought DC to AC inverters if I need to operate an AC device, Solar panels have come down in price dramatically and production capabity is expanding, so start now. Think independant and start small instead of suffering mega system price hesitance. A world of 12 volt dc devices are available from hardware, marine, automotive and internet sources. You just have to start. Be the first on your block to confuse the lineman who show up during a power failure. I did.
I posted the above text on the new york times "Green Inc" energy blog back on september 23, 2009 as a comment to an article regarding solar power in africa. The internal discharge in a deep cycle battery is only about 50 milliamps which I consider insignificant.
I dont want to be connected to the grid which I consider "STUPID" and you dont either. Dont follow, think for yourselves.
Think about this..... brain waves operate up to about 20 cycles per second, imagine what 60 cycles is doing to you and the world.
Pat
From : Thomas McGrane[mailto:n2oeq@aceweb.com] Sent : 10/2/2009 10:39:56 PM To : amsat-bb@amsat.org Cc : Subject : FW: OFF grid solar system
The grid is vulnerable as a system.
How can you state that it is vulnerable without stating exactly the nature of that which threatens it?
We have to stop always thinking
about being connected to or relying on the utility grid.
You mean stop using an economical, well tested solution to power and spend much more re-inventing the wheel and ending up with a much less cost effective solution.
Think in terms
of building an independant 12 volt DC system (low voltage)
although we know that distribution at a higher voltace is both cheaper and more efficient.
Small systems can easily run lights, TV’s, radios,
even a small refridgerator for essentials.
But not the SAME lights, TV etc, that we already have. More expense buying two of everything, one for mains voltage and one for 12 volts.
You would still need the
grid power for large loads like heat, large refridgerators,
To run you life support systems. Freezers for food, heat, water pumps....... You're only proposing "self generated" to run the small luxuries that nobody NEEDS.
Remember, the wires are antennas
And the wires that distribute your 12V supply are somehow NOT antennas?
We owe our reliance on a large electrical system to
Nickolai Tesla
Thanks Nikolai. You did a great job.
The idea was to minmize power loss over
long distances. Therefore we should all promote local or household Low voltage DC solar or wind systems
So you reduce losses in the grid system by not using it. That doesn't reduce losses, it just means that you are not affected by them.
Through the years I have built a very economical system comprised of several solar panels with a capacity of about 130 watts
You'd have problems powering a good set of headphones with that. My standby is going to be a 25KW generator and a tank of propane.
I dont want to be connected to the grid which I consider "STUPID" and you dont either. Dont follow, think for yourselves.
The grid is not stupid, it is inanimate. The grids operators might, in your opinion be stupid. What gives you the authority to decide what I WANT? You might think you know what's best for me but I don't want that.
Think about this..... brain waves operate up to about 20 cycles per second, imagine what 60 cycles is doing to you and the world.
So after all that, you're just some mickey mouse GREEN ENVIROMENTALIST on your campaign trail.
Hey Bob.
Seems that people don't like your truthful and honest approach to life. I guess he won't like me for the same reason. Being honest and trustworthy just don't pay!
Thomas McGrane wrote: because bruninga
changed my meaning by taking words out of context.
participants (2)
-
Nigel Gunn G8IFF/W8IFF -
Thomas McGrane