Hybrid (Combination Wind and Solar Electric Systems)

Small hybrid electric systems that combine both wind and solar technologies offer several advantages over either single system.

     In much of the United States, wind speeds are low in the summer when the sun shines brightest and longest. The wind is strong in the winter when less sunlight is available. Because the peak operating times for wind and solar systems occur at different times of the day and year, hybrid systems are more likely to produce power when you need it.

     Hybrid systems have traditionally been Off Grid systems, however, they can also be equally effective in On-Grid and On-Grid with battery backup systems.

     The battery backup will ensure that you have electricity for critical loads when the sun is down or blocked by clouds, or when the wind isn't blowing. When the optional backup generator is added, you are truly protected against nearly any catastrophic situation. There is also an optional DC hookup, which means you can use DC appliance and power devices.

Below is a diagram of a typical Hybrid Solar/ Wind Energy system, including the basic (and optional) components and configuration:

How it works:

     1) Sunlight hits the solar module then converts the light into electricity.
AND/OR
     2) Wind strikes the turbine blades, turning the generator and turning this energy into electricity.
     3) This electricity travels through wires to the charge controller for On-Grid battery backup or Off-Grid systems. OR
     4) This electricity travels through wires to the grid-tied inverter.