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Forum Index : Solar : Challenge: Solar startup for < $1000USD

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yumology
Newbie

Joined: 07/05/2009
Location:
Posts: 4
Posted: 01:54am 07 May 2009
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Hi.
I'm very interested in getting some solar energy since I
live in Arizona. However I only have $1,000 at this time
to invest in it. Everywhere I look it seems that at a
minimum it will cost 10 times that amount. So here's my
challenge to you. How can I get started with solar
energy for less than $1,000 USD? Oh yes, and I'm wanting
to use this on a house and part of a grid tie in.

I am very handy with tools and carpentry. I can follow
wiring diagrams very well but by no means an electrical
engineer or electrician. So I can do DIY projects but
since I'm so new I don't know if that's just for fun or
if that's a reality that people actually use?

I also figure that if the $1,000 project goes well then
I can modify, tweak, test and add to the solar panels
when I get more money saved.
 
petanque don
Senior Member

Joined: 02/08/2006
Location: Australia
Posts: 212
Posted: 05:56am 07 May 2009
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In Australia you need a grid tie inverter these cost more than $1,000.

PV solar you really need to buy commercial components.

What the legislation is like in Arizona regarding DIY electrical I don’t know.

In Australia you need formal qualifications to do electrical work.
 
yumology
Newbie

Joined: 07/05/2009
Location:
Posts: 4
Posted: 11:29pm 07 May 2009
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Hmm, so that's funny. I just saw a Sunny Boy inverter go
for $550 on ebay yesterday. I suppose that was an
impossible deal?
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?
ViewItem&item=110385439702&ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:US:1123
#ht_2455wt_1165

2nd, what about the cheapo inverters sold on ebay for
less than $300 all day every day? like this:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Micro-Grid-Tie-Inverter-Solar-cell-
Panel_W0QQitemZ270386658300QQ#ht_1677wt_1165

If that is something that I don't want, why don't I want
it, what is the problem with it?
 
Gizmo

Admin Group

Joined: 05/06/2004
Location: Australia
Posts: 5078
Posted: 12:24am 08 May 2009
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Yumology your reply has got me a bit baffled, I think you need to read Dons post again. He's talking about Australia, and said he didnt know about Arizona. If you can buy cheaper on ebay, and it will work legally in Arizona, then go for it.

But remember, you always get what you pay for.

Glenn
The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago, the second best time is right now.
JAQ
 
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