The U.S. has enough green energy resources to generate 100 times its annual electricity needs. At the same time, solar has more potential for power production in the U.S. than any other renewable source. This explains why many Chicago residents are eager to join the eco-friendly movement.
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.
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!
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.
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:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.