After two years of evaluation, this has been selected as an ideal starter system for small off-grid homes. It is included as a standard part of a lot sale at Pueblo SacBe.

The power system produces about 1.6 Kwh/day on sunny days and has 2 days of autonomy in the battery bank. It is configured to use three solar modules for extra charging efficiency on cloudy days. Typical usage on sunny days: a few CF lights, one ceiling fan, super-efficient fridge, computer/stereo/tv, small appliances or power tools. No microwave, large motors, or heating elements are allowed. During prolonged periods of cloudiness your generator can be used to keep the batteries charged.

Rated Capacity
30% discharge: 1.8 kWh/day for 2 days, 1.0 kWh/day for 3 days
50% discharge: 2.7 kWh/day for 2 days, 1.6 kWh/day for 3 days

The water pumping system is solar direct (no battery backup) and is separate from the power system so it will not interfere with battery charging. The pump is rated to deliver a maximum of about 400 liters (100 Gallons) per hour while the sun shines. The one solar module used for water pumping is sized for extra efficiency on cloudy days and could actually power two pumps on sunny days.

Components and Prices

4 Sharp 180 watt solar modules, 24 volts $3,960
3 inch pole, galvanized steel, 10 feet, pole top frame $650
Wire - panels to charger $90
Plywood panel for mounting equipment $45
Xantrex C40 charge controller with C series display $295
8 batteries, Trojan T105 $880
Rack for the batteries $120
Battery and battery-inverter wiring $90
Terminals, conduit, accessories, panel wiring $140
DC box with T-fuse 200A and negative block $120
Inverter - Xantrex DR1524, 1,500 watts $950
Shurflo 9300 water pump, 400 LPH $780
Pump Controller 902-100 $160
Pump Wire $90
Labor $550
Analysis, project management $880
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Total $9,800 US
Total with 10% IVA (factura) $10,780 US

Warranties

Solar panels: 25 years
Batteries: 2 years
Trace electronics: 3 years
Labor: 5 years, installation includes 4 free visits the first year.

Customer Responsibilities

Customer provides the equipment closet:
The equipment must be stored in a well ventilated, clean, dry, secure location. An earth grounding rod must be provided. The batteries must be accessible for routine maintenance and cleaning. The charge controller must be accessible for checking the system voltage. A typical size is: 2m wide, 1.5m high, 1m deep.

Customer provides the solar module mounting method:
Solar panels must be mounted securely in an open area without shadows from trees or other objects 9:00 am to 5:00 pm all year. They must be located as near as possible to the equipment closet and/or water pump. The easiest method is a simple frame attached to a flat rooftop. Another method is a metal pole in the ground with a cement base and guy wires. You can also attach a pole to an existing structure with additional base and support. In any case the panels must be accessible for maintenance and removal. Playa Systems can contract this.

When the water pump is installed, there will be additional charges if support cable and water hose are not provided by the customer.

Product Specifications
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Sharp Panels
Xantrex/Trace Charge Controller
Xantrex/Trace DR Inverter
Trojan Batteries
SHURflo Pump