Power outages and fluctuations in the grid used to disrupt our plans. Sudden power surges have often frustrated expensive equipment and their owners. In wartime conditions, when candlelit dinners and daily defrosting of the refrigerator became routine, the desire for energy independence among many homeowners only intensified. Today we will analyze the current state of Ukraine's energy system and discuss alternative sources of electricity, as well as find out how to install it and whether it is worth doing.
Energy situation in Ukraine
The energy situation in the country leaves much to be desired, and the closer it gets to winter, the more strongly this is felt. Many are already mentally preparing to convert their balcony into a freezer and stocking up on blankets as the only source of warmth when the power is out heating experts, instead of encouraging citizens, only make things worse - they speak the harsh truth that the electricity deficit could last at least two years. That's how long it will take to build new power plants, including the processes of design, manufacturing of parts, and their installation. The mentioned timeframe is indeed the minimum and no one can predict whether it will be enough for a full recovery of the system, as the war may interfere not in our favor. The process of stabilizing the situation may be further delayed due to insufficient funding from partners, as well as a shortage of personnel (many competent employees have been mobilized).
Electricity shortage has become a common issue and it needs to be changed. Many residential complexes are considering the following options for themselves:
- purchase of a generator and collection of monthly contributions for its refueling;
- Installation of equipment for obtaining solar energy.
The second option is more costly in the initial stages, but during use it does not require additional contributions, as it depends not on limited fuel, but solely on the favor of the sun. If you are familiar with neighboring greed in collecting money for a generator, think about how many generous residents will remain when it comes to paying for fuel. Perhaps it is better to save up a little more and not rely on neighbors? While you are thinking about this question, we will tell you about solar energy and how to implement it in your residential complex.
How to use the power of the sun for the benefit of LCD
To harness power from the sun, special equipment will be needed:
- The hybrid inverter converts the electrical energy obtained from solar panels into alternating current suitable for household use. When choosing an inverter for your residential complex, add about 20% to its rated power. This way you can avoid overloading the system. With the correct calculation, it will be possible to power heating, elevators, and pumps for water supply to upper floors. The more power the hybrid inverter has, the more possibilities there are for the residents of the house.
- The choice of solar panels depends on the power of the inverter. Of course, seasonality noticeably affects the amount of energy received. For example, in the summer, the system can meet all the needs of the apartment, while in the winter, the power is reduced on average by 10%. Even under such conditions, there will be enough energy to cover all basic needs.
- Battery storage allows excess electricity generated from solar panels to be stored. In case of power outages, it can be used for household needs. Lithium iron phosphate batteries (LiFePo4) are most commonly installed, as they charge quickly and are safer to use.
In addition to purchasing the necessary equipment, the budget should also include an additional amount for hiring professionals to install it. The state supports the implementation of solar energy because it is much more efficient. ecological, than the gasoline emissions of standard generators installed in each coffee shop in your backyard. To encourage residents to make the right choice, taxes and VAT on the import of equipment have already been abolished, and a credit system at 0% has been developed for its installation. These measures will help to contain price increases and make solar energy more accessible.
☀️ The guaranteed service life of solar panels is 10 years. They do not require additional investments, and in some cases, they can even generate income for their owner - selling excess electricity is allowed for owners of private homes. This option is not yet available in apartment buildings, but it should not be ruled out.