Winter is coming. Temperatures are dropping. We have reached this familiar chill which not only reminds us of warm winter clothes and steamy coffee but also reminds us of dreadful load shedding.  It’s the time of the year where electricity is a luxury but a must.

To curb the scarcity of electricity, we have an alternative a personal solar installation for power generation source. Rather than adding backup inverters which ultimately rely on the diminished electricity source, solar is clean as well as renewable. Recently, promotion of solar, low powered electronics as well as financing options from government has led to affordability and preference of solar. In this issue, we look at the basics of solar and points to remember while getting solar installed at home.

Do’s

Calculate your needs: We all know that solar plant installation is a costly endeavor. You are tempted to spend a little less than necessary by cutting on a few watts. Under capacity can result in a constantly lagging charge which could in the long term result in additional expenses on frequent battery changes. The average consumption of a regular household is around 1.2 - 1.5 kWh daily.

Place them right: When it comes to solar, placement it is pivotal. It needs at least six hours a day to charge.  Also keep in mind the sun’s movement and shadows of objects falling on the panel throughout the day if there are other buildings or higher elevated objects nearby.  In terms of battery placement, cooler room temperatures are favored.

Keep it clean: Panel cleaning is particularly necessary in polluted places (such as Kathmandu) more during winter where downpours are limited. Since natural washes don’t occur, it is a good practice to mop up your panels upon dust layer formation. 

Batteries like staying topped up: Lead Acid batteries (commonly used) have a low lifespan around five years. In order to keep in good shape, keep them charged and limit your usage. Keeping the battery always low (less than 30%) deteriorates battery’s life and efficiency. Refill the distill water upon need. 

Healthy battery ~ long life:  

Infographic: An average household

Family Size - 4 - 6 persons

Capacity:  Lights 200 W, TV – 1, Laptop 1, Router 1

Solar Panels - 400W

Inverter - 600 VA

Battery - 100Ah

Cost – Rs. 120,000

Panel Life - 20 years

Battery Life – up to 5 years (Lead Acid Battery) 

Electricity bill reduction - upto 40%

EMI Infographic

Loan Amount - 90% of Project

Interest Rate - Household 2.25%

Commercial 4.5 %