Remote Solar

What is remote solar?

Remote and off-grid solar systems provide energy opportunities to areas in which traditional power lines do not exist. This may be because traditional power lines are too expensive to implement, or they are simply impractical to construct within the given area. The main component of a remote solar panel system is the solar panels which produce a certain amount of power depending on their specifications such their as voltage and wattage. How do solar panels work? Solar energy is a clean and renewable energy source which comes from the sun. It can be harnessed and converted into useable energy through the use of photovoltaics. Incoming sunlight hits a semiconductor material that is used within a solar panel and knocks electrons loose. When these electrons are set in motion, they generate an electric current that can be captured. This current is then converted by the solar inverter into the type of electricity that can be used within the electric grid.

Remote solar uses

Remote and off-grid solar systems can be used in a wide variety of situations, as long as there is enough sunlight present. Highway infrastructure such as streetlights and illuminated signage can benefit from off-grid solar systems, as there is no need to connect to the power lines. This makes installation, transportation, and deinstallation of temporary infrastructure much faster and easier. Remote and off-grid solar systems also come in handy in emergency situations. Storms and other disasters can easily lead to power outages. Having a backup solar system is a reliable way to ensure your home and business is covered when the power goes out.

Bringing electricity to remote communities

One of, if not the most useful applications of remote and off-grid solar systems is in remote communities where electricity is not widely available or affordable. As the cost of producing solar panels is steadily decreasing, solar is becoming a viable option for bringing electricity to those who live in remote locations because the purchase price is decreasing as well. For example, rural Asia and Africa are becoming the main beneficiaries of this solar technology, as it provides communities and families with safe and cheap electricity. Remote and off-grid solar systems are also becoming a staple in Indigenous reserves in remote areas of Canada as well. This electricity allows community members access to refrigeration, at-home cellphone charging, electric lighting, television and more with minimal environmental and human health concerns. Solar is proving to be a much better alternative to expensive (and environmentally degrading) fossil fuels, as well as the kerosene lamps which are often utilized in off-grid African villages which cause headaches, irritate the skin and respiratory system, and degrade indoor air quality.

Remote solar systems have the potential to make a large difference. This can be seen in the community of Id Mjahdi which is located in Morocco. Id Mjahdi is a village that is completely powered by solar. The Moroccan solar power company Cleanenergy built a water tower for the community, solar-powered public buildings, as well as a power station with 32 solar photovoltaic panels. This power station is connected to 20 households in the village and has increased the standard of living for everyone in the community.

Morocco’s solar powered village

Growth in solar energy is bringing power to millions in remote communities