Ok Fedi, I'm starting the process of researching solar panels for my barn.

[brianb@fosstodon.org]

Ok Fedi, I'm starting the process of researching solar panels for my barn. I'm a DIY person, so not looking for install recommendations, more interested in what I need to learn in order to do this wisely. Hardware, unexpected gotchas, other things DIY people need to know.

I can build and I am comfortable with electrical work.

#askfedi #solar

[sleepy62@social.vivaldi.net]

@brianb

The first big decision is what type of inverter to use. The link below is a good explainer. Basically the simplest is a string inverter but for this to be optimal all panels in the string need to all have the same sun exposure. ie unshaded. Its also easiest from A DIY perspective.

https://www.howtogosolar.org/solar-inverter-types/

[anne_delong@musician.social]

@brianb

Hi Brian. Are you planning to hook your solar panels to the grid, or connect them to a battery-based power station?

[brianb@fosstodon.org]

@Anne_Delong will still stay connected to the grid for now. Looking to supplement coolers for the farm more than become independent.

[brianvastag@mas.to]

@brianb For a grid-tied system, you're probably going to need your plans approved by your local utility before you start building.