Everything You Wanted To Know About Off-Grid Solar System in Chicago
The U.S. has enough green energy resources to generate 100 times its annual electricity needs. At the same time,
However, the path to sustainable energy isn’t simple. Illinois is known for its harsh climate, with long nights in winter. To achieve energy independence, you should install off-grid solar power solutions with capacious batteries.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the off-grid solar system in Chicago: vital components, benefits, cost considerations, and maintenance tips.
Components of an Off-Grid Solar Kit
If you want to become fully independent from the grid, your solar energy production system should have the next six components:
| Solar panels | Collect the energy of the Sun’s rays and convert it to DC electricity. |
| Batteries | Store the DC electricity generated by the solar panels. |
| Inverter | Converts DC electricity from the panels or batteries into AC electricity, suitable for household use. |
| Charge controller | Regulates the electricity generated by the solar panels, directing it to the inverter and batteries. |
| Mounting system | Holds the solar panels securely in place. |
| Wiring and circuit breakers | Connects all components and protects the system from electrical faults. |
Install a backup generator if you want additional power for your off-grid solar power system. It’s not the most eco-friendly option but it will provide electricity during critical moments.
Stay prepared with a reliable backup generator — get your free solar quote today!
How Does an Off-Grid Solar Panel Kit With Battery and Inverter Work?
The solar panels generate DC electricity, which is sent to the charge controller. The controller regulates the electricity flow to the batteries.
During the day, the electricity produced by off-grid solar panels is directed to the inverter. It converts the DC to usable AC, so you can power your appliances. Any excessive power is stored in the batteries.
When the sun goes down, the system automatically switches to using the stored energy from the batteries. The off-grid solar inverter converts the stored DC electricity from the batteries into AC electricity. Once the Sun is up and excess electricity is generated, the batteries automatically begin to recharge.
Advantages of Off-The-Grid Solar Power Systems
They will benefit those who want to gain energy independence. With those systems, you don’t have to worry about grid availability or bills. Here are the key advantages of off-grid solar power:
- Energy independence: You don’t need to fear potential outages or blackouts.
- Full control: You have complete control over how and when you use energy.
- Environmental benefits: You produce clean energy, decreasing your carbon footprint.
- Cost savings: Usually, houses with solar panels can be sold at 4.1% more than similar homes.
- Remote area suitability: An off-grid solar power system perfectly suits those who want to live in remote locations but still have electricity in their house.
Meanwhile, you need many solar panels available in many places. Otherwise, your off-grid solar kit may require more energy to cover all your needs.
Installation Process for the Off-Grid Solar System
Installing an independent solar power station is a timely process. You may spend weeks on system design and obtaining approvals from the local authorities. The actual solar installation typically takes 3-5 days, involving the connection of panels, an inverter, and a battery system. Here is a general overview of the process:
- System design. During this step, you determine your energy needs for every season to choose off-the-grid solar system parameters that suit your needs.
- Component selection. Choose solar panels, batteries, inverter, charge controller, and mounting hardware based on your energy needs and budget.
- Approval process. You need to gather approvals from local authorities and the HOA if you have one.
- Site preparation. Pick a roof location with the maximum sunlight exposure and prepare the mounting structure. Find a dry and well-ventilated location for off-grid solar batteries.
- Solar panel installation: Securely attach the mounting structure to the chosen location, mount the panels to this structure, and connect the panels.
- Batteries installation. Choose the place where to mount panels. Connect the off-grid solar system packages with batteries in series or parallel.
- Installation of the inverter and charge controller. Find a suitable location for those devices and connect them to the panels and batteries.
- Initial testing. Conduct wiring checks for correct polarity. Turn on the complete off-grid solar system and monitor its performance.
- Contiguous monitoring. Monitor system performance to identify any issues early. Regularly inspect and clean the system to optimize its output.
Note. Don’t install a solar system on your own! It’s not only dangerous but also takes away the panel’s warranty. Ensure that you collaborate only with verified installers.
Cost Considerations for an Off-Grid Solar System in Chicago
Independent solar systems are significantly more expensive than grid-tied options. In most cases, you need to install more panels than your average consumption and mount batteries to store electricity to use on cloudy days or at night.
All these actions affect the final price. The average 6 kW solar system without batteries will cost approximately $17,000-$20,000. If you need to install accumulators for your small off-grid solar system, prepare to spend more. The cheapest solar battery kit will cost around $4,000-$7,000, while more advanced options may cost $12,000-$18,000.
Maintenance and Upkeep of Off-Grid Solar Systems in Chicago
Regularly clean panels with a dry cloth mop or the softest possible bristled brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, shovels, metal tools, or abrasive materials, as they could damage your off-grid solar system kit.
Ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating. Maintain optimal battery and inverter temperature for maximum lifespan. If your solar panel off-grid system has some software, update it for optimal performance and bug fixes.
Clean panels every 3-4 months, and book expert inspection and washing once a year. They check your system for potential damage, cracks, or hotspots. Proper professional maintenance allows you to prevent the most common failures.
Keep detailed records of both professional and self-checks. If something happens with solar panels for off-grid living, you’ll have a record that you take proper care of them. Later, you can show all these documents to the insurance company.
Energy Storage Options for the Off-Grid Solar System in Chicago
Batteries are crucial for off-grid systems because they store green energy for later usage. The two most common types of batteries are lead-acid and lithium-ion. To ease the comparison, we have compiled their differences in a comprehensive table.
| Feature | Lead-Acid Battery | Lithium-Ion Battery |
| Cost | Lower upfront cost | Higher upfront cost |
| Efficiency | Lower | Higher |
| Lifespan | Shorter lifespan (3-5 years) | Longer lifespan (7-10+ years) |
| Maintenance | Requires regular maintenance | Occasional inspections |
| Depth of Discharge (DOD) | Limited DOD (50-60%) | Higher DOD (80-100%) |
| Environmental Impact | More lead pollution concerns | Generally considered more eco-friendly |
Lead-acid options are more affordable but have lower efficiency and a shorter lifespan than lithium-ion batteries. They require constant maintenance, including equalization and electrolyte checks.
On the other hand, lithium-ion batteries are more efficient, have a longer lifespan, and need only basic maintenance. However, they can be up to 2-3 times more expensive than old-fashioned lead-acid options.
Your Path to Energy Independence in Chicago
Embarking on an off-grid journey in Chicago presents unique challenges due to cold and long winters. Meanwhile, it’s still possible to create an independent solar system. Consider your average and peak energy consumption, budget, and potential maintenance. Decide on the preferable system and battery types to find superior performance for your budget.
Get your personalized free solar quote from the best Chicago solar providers.
FAQ
Will I generate enough electricity to power the off-grid solar system in Chicago?
Despite the harsh Chicago climate, you can still produce enough energy to power your home. We recommend you use capacious batteries to store enough energy to use them on long winter nights.
How to choose the best off-grid solar system?
Access your energy needs and look for extensive systems. Identify the highest power demand for every season and ensure that your solar kit is powerful enough to provide power. Evaluate the sunlight your location receives throughout the year and order more panels than you need to power a house on the shortest winter days.
What’s the average cost of the off-grid solar system?
Be prepared to spend $20,000-$35,000. It takes approximately $18,000-$25,000 to purchase and install a 6 kW solar system without batteries. If you want to get a power storage that suits your 6 kW needs, prepare to pay an additional $5,000-$15,000.
