Are there regulations in place on where you can put your Whole House solar Panels?

[MJCM]

Just wondering because I intend to place them here (which is in a field behind our house where we have room to place them all (and more if needed))

 

They will be placed on concrete poles approx 1,5-1,8m above the ground and on top will be steel frames for them which are angle adjustable (what you see are the 3 panels used for the Solar Pump from the "lake" to our Garden Water Storage tank.

 

Id rather NOT have the solar panels placed on the roof of our House (if possible)

 

Maybe the only issue to place them there could be the distance, because from there to the house is about 80-100meters

(But as you can see HDPE Conduit is already in place because of the old pump which we replaced with Solar)

 

 

 

 

 

[BritManToo]

No rules, I have my panels partly in the field behind my her house, and she doesn't even own the field.

Edited December 21, 2021 by BritManToo

[Crossy]

I'm not aware of any limitations.

 

If going ground mount put them high enough to walk underneath then you can grow some shade loving plants.

 

At 80-100m put the inverter(s) near the panels and run at 220V to the house. Still use the largest cable you can get in the conduit as the inverter currents can have a poor power-factor.

[MJCM]

7 minutes ago, Crossy said:

I'm not aware of any limitations.

 

If going ground mount put them high enough to walk underneath then you can grow some shade loving plants.

Yes, the current panels are like that, but it's not an area that is suitable for growing plants (
Pak bung only ???? ) because it floods because of our "lake" and the run-off from the fields, but it does not flood high enough to endanger the panels/controller.

 

8 minutes ago, Crossy said:

At 80-100m put the inverter(s) near the panels and run at 220V to the house. Still use the largest cable you can get in the conduit as the inverter currents can have a poor power-factor.

If I place the inverter(s) near there, we need to build a shelter for it (or as you suggested get the IP65 Inverter ones).

 

Can the inverter(s) be placed further away from the panels? Because on the way to the house from the panels we have our Rain Water Storage area which we can safely store the Inverter(s)/Batteries.
And just in case something happens to the Batteries we have Water stored to flood it ????

 

I will get 63mm HDPE for these cables (the current one is only 50mm) intend to use NYY for the cables (16mm² or 25mm². The latter one I still have lots because we used it to connect the PEA Meter to the house. (Sparky wasn't happy because it was HEAVY)

 

I am almost ready to go Solar, but the hardest part still remains and that is to convince SWMBO.

[Crossy]

Panel to inverter distance depends very much on panel current. If you have a high-voltage (400V-500V) string inverter/MPPT controller you can run further / use thinner cable than those running at 40V. 

[Crossy]

12 minutes ago, MJCM said:

I am almost ready to go Solar, but the hardest part still remains and that is to convince SWMBO.

 

Show her some of my graphs ???? 

 

Last month (just got the bill) we used 280kWh from PEA and generated 797kWh from the solar!

 

Power bill of 1,110 Baht vs somewhere around 4,300 Baht.

[MJCM]

12 minutes ago, Crossy said:

 

Show her some of my graphs ???? 

 

Last month (just got the bill) we used 280kWh from PEA and generated 797kWh from the solar!

 

Power bill of 1,110 Baht vs somewhere around 4,300 Baht.

Good idea, but unfortunately she doesn't see it that way.

 

She only sees that I want to spend 250.000 THB++ and she couldn't be bothered when I try to explain we could save xxxx THB on our electricity bill (and the PEA is only getting more expensive in the future (I believe already next year?? And with the proposed VAT increase to 10% even more so).

 

You know what she replied: "You could save that much of money if instead of 3 cans of beer, you only drink 2 a day or completely stop which is good for you" Can't argue with that

Edited December 21, 2021 by MJCM

[Crossy]

Softly, softly catchee monkey!!

 

Madam was actually very supportive, she knew that "solar cell" would save money but she wasn't sure how much.

 

So I started off with a baby system, 4 panels and a 1200W micro-inverter. "See Honey our bill is 500 Baht less this month" ???? 

 

Now we have 11kW of inverters and 32 panels!

 

[MJCM]

Yeah you can do upgrade it yourself, I can't (and won't) and just the installers come and do their business and that's it!

 

I think I am just going to trick her, by paying a down-payment on the install (something like 1/3) and then say "yeah darling, if we cancel now we loose all that money"

 

A bit harsh and mean but I think when it's in place she will be running the bed-room aircon 24/7 and she then afterwards is saying ooh nice that our PEA bill is so low (and I think (we are married for 10+ years so I know a weeeee bit how she is thinking)  she will say "Why didn't we do this earlier"

[Crossy]

Hmmmm. I predict a lack of nookie or the arrival of ducks (or both)

 

But you know your lady ???? 

 

[MJCM]

1 minute ago, Crossy said:

Hmmmm. I predict a lack of nookie or the arrival of ducks (or both)

 

But you know your lady ???? 

 

Nah she is not that mean to opt for the arrival of ducks

[Crossy]

2 minutes ago, MJCM said:

Nah she is not that mean to opt for the arrival of ducks

 

Just no nookie then ???? 

[MJCM]

23 minutes ago, Crossy said:

 

Just no nookie then ???? 

 

 

But that only will be for a couple days.

 

Won't be getting any Nookie from the 25th till the 31st anyway. Her kids are coming and they will be all staying in our old house and I will have my Peace and quiet and I can do a bit more thinking about the Solar

 

 

[BritManToo]

1 hour ago, MJCM said:

If I place the inverter(s) near there, we need to build a shelter for it (or as you suggested get the IP65 Inverter ones).

Screw a plastic storage bin upside down under the Panels with the GTI mounted inside.

[MJCM]

33 minutes ago, BritManToo said:

Screw a plastic storage bin upside down under the Panels with the GTI mounted inside.

Thx!! Good idea. But wouldn't the lack of airflow be a factor in this case?

[BritManToo]

Just now, MJCM said:

Thx!! Good idea. But wouldn't the lack of airflow be a factor in this case?

You throw the top away, that's why I said upside down, open to the down.

[007 RED]

@MJCM I've noted from your comments in a few resent threads that you seem to be reluctant to DIY.  You may well have good reasons for this, like not wishing to 'play' with electricity and I respect your concern if that be the case.  But paying through the nose to have a 'contractor' do an installation, when you could with a little bit of 'homework' DIY and most likely a far better job at the end of the day.  Apart from that, its a great learning experience as I found out.

 

As I think I mentioned in another thread, I got the 'solar panel bug' from @Crossy original post "How about a solar car port on a budget".  I openly admit that my knowledge of electrics etc is fairly basic and dates back to Ohm's Law when I was doing my degree in control system technology some 55 years ago, but after doing quite a bit of background reading up I felt that I had enough knowledge to tackle a small scale DIY project on my car port roof.

 

Yes, 'playing' with electrics has its risks, but common sense is an essential pre-requisite.

 

My biggest worry, or at least my good ladies' worry, was me working up on top of the car port roof at the age of 75.  I could tell see was worried when she got my life insurance policy out to check if falling from a great height constituted stupidity or self inflicted injuries.

 

 

Looking at your photo, you have a wonderful opportunity to create a solar panel project.  As @Crossysuggested earlier, begin with a small scale DIY system like @BritManToo or mine, with a view to convincing your other half that it's a worthwhile investment .  My little system is merrily producing about 7 units per day from 4 x 415W panels and cost approximately 28K THB.  My latest bill (16/12/21) was 269THB, against the previous month of almost 1,000 THB.  At this rate my ROI should be around 3 years which I can live with.

 

FYI.... I got a quote from a contractor to install the equivalent small scale system.  He wanted 150K plus THB, and that did not include having the system registered with the PEA.

 

Have faith in your potential ability, take the 'bull by the horns', and go for it.

 

Good luck. 

 

 

[MJCM]

23 minutes ago, BritManToo said:

You throw the top away, that's why I said upside down, open to the down.

I get that but still a plastic bin (IMHO) would restrict airflow and what I understand these devices love "yen" ????

 

But maybe I am wrong and I would need to see it (or drill holes in the side ???? )

Edited December 21, 2021 by MJCM

[MJCM]

15 minutes ago, 007 RED said:

@MJCM I've noted from your comments in a few resent threads that you seem to be reluctant to DIY.  You may well have good reasons for this, like not wishing to 'play' with electricity and I respect your concern if that be the case.  But paying through the nose to have a 'contractor' do an installation, when you could with a little bit of 'homework' DIY and most likely a far better job at the end of the day.  Apart from that, its a great learning experience as I found out.

 

As I think I mentioned in another thread, I got the 'solar panel bug' from @Crossy original post "How about a solar car port on a budget".  I openly admit that my knowledge of electrics etc is fairly basic and dates back to Ohm's Law when I was doing my degree in control system technology some 55 years ago, but after doing quite a bit of background reading up I felt that I had enough knowledge to tackle a small scale DIY project on my car port roof.

 

Yes, 'playing' with electrics has its risks, but common sense is an essential pre-requisite.

 

My biggest worry, or at least my good ladies' worry, was me working up on top of the car port roof at the age of 75.  I could tell see was worried when she got my life insurance policy out to check if falling from a great height constituted stupidity or self inflicted injuries.

 

 

Looking at your photo, you have a wonderful opportunity to create a solar panel project.  As @Crossysuggested earlier, begin with a small scale DIY system like @BritManToo or mine, with a view to convincing your other half that it's a worthwhile investment .  My little system is merrily producing about 7 units per day from 4 x 415W panels and cost approximately 28K THB.  My latest bill (16/12/21) was 269THB, against the previous month of almost 1,000 THB.  At this rate my ROI should be around 3 years which I can live with.

 

FYI.... I got a quote from a contractor to install the equivalent small scale system.  He wanted 150K plus THB, and that did not include having the system registered with the PEA.

 

Have faith in your potential ability, take the 'bull by the horns', and go for it.

 

Good luck. 

 

 

Thx, appreciated, but I am just saying this. I don't want our house burned down!

 

I have no ... idea where to start, for example how to connect one solar panel to an inverter or to a battery, and more importantly I STAY FARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR away from our Fuse Box. I know what to get / talk to the Sparky what I want (thanks to you guys and @Crossy ) but NO work is done by me!!!!!!!

 

I do my homework so I come prepared and Id rather pay and blame someone else when they make a mistake then have to blame put on me ???? (I am just NOT that kind of a person (willing to learn but NOT willing to DO)

 

I think of going for the 5kW + 10kW ESS  (still maybe over the top for our needs, but I want to plan for the future (maybe get an EV??? Tesla Model S )

Edited December 21, 2021 by MJCM

[Asquith Production]

14 hours ago, 007 RED said:

@MJCM I've noted from your comments in a few resent threads that you seem to be reluctant to DIY.  You may well have good reasons for this, like not wishing to 'play' with electricity and I respect your concern if that be the case.  But paying through the nose to have a 'contractor' do an installation, when you could with a little bit of 'homework' DIY and most likely a far better job at the end of the day.  Apart from that, its a great learning experience as I found out.

 

As I think I mentioned in another thread, I got the 'solar panel bug' from @Crossy original post "How about a solar car port on a budget".  I openly admit that my knowledge of electrics etc is fairly basic and dates back to Ohm's Law when I was doing my degree in control system technology some 55 years ago, but after doing quite a bit of background reading up I felt that I had enough knowledge to tackle a small scale DIY project on my car port roof.

 

Yes, 'playing' with electrics has its risks, but common sense is an essential pre-requisite.

 

My biggest worry, or at least my good ladies' worry, was me working up on top of the car port roof at the age of 75.  I could tell see was worried when she got my life insurance policy out to check if falling from a great height constituted stupidity or self inflicted injuries.

 

 

Looking at your photo, you have a wonderful opportunity to create a solar panel project.  As @Crossysuggested earlier, begin with a small scale DIY system like @BritManToo or mine, with a view to convincing your other half that it's a worthwhile investment .  My little system is merrily producing about 7 units per day from 4 x 415W panels and cost approximately 28K THB.  My latest bill (16/12/21) was 269THB, against the previous month of almost 1,000 THB.  At this rate my ROI should be around 3 years which I can live with.

 

FYI.... I got a quote from a contractor to install the equivalent small scale system.  He wanted 150K plus THB, and that did not include having the system registered with the PEA.

 

Have faith in your potential ability, take the 'bull by the horns', and go for it.

 

Good luck. 

 

 

I am also looking to get into solar and so far it seems pretty straight forward but have you any recommendations on batteries. Lithium or lead acid, make? They are my main concern because of the potential for a fire.

[BritManToo]

1 hour ago, Asquith Production said:

I am also looking to get into solar and so far it seems pretty straight forward but have you any recommendations on batteries. Lithium or lead acid, make? They are my main concern because of the potential for a fire.

LiPo is the current trend, around 30Kbht for 5Kwhr.

https://www.lazada.co.th/products/lifepo4-200ah-100-12v-24v-48v-bms-balance-solar-cell-71-182-280-i1259648675-s3064694489.html?

[Muhendis]

2 hours ago, BritManToo said:

LiPo is the current trend, around 30Kbht for 5Kwhr.

https://www.lazada.co.th/products/lifepo4-200ah-100-12v-24v-48v-bms-balance-solar-cell-71-182-280-i1259648675-s3064694489.html?

That is correct. LiFePO4 batteries are unlikely to ever catch fire. Tesla cars are currently changing over to that technology from Lithium ion. Lithium ion has greater capacity per unit volume but by changing the shape from cylindrical to square cells they can get more in thus maintaining mileage range. Not a problem for stationary storage ie solar.

 

Price is now not too much different from lead acid but life expectancy of LiFePO4 is significantly longer.

LiFePO4 is a bit better in a hot environment.

Lead acid has an even shorter life if deeply discharged regularly. LiFePO4s are relatively ok for that.

Lead acid batteries need to be fully charged to remain optimally healthy (sulfation). LiFePO4s are quite ok and unaffected with just a partial recharge cycle as on cloudy days.

Strings of Lithium batteries connected in series do need some electronics to maintain their performance and to ensure they are not damaged by over-charge or over-discharge, but that is not so expensive.

[NoshowJones]

I had solar panels put up about 9 years ago, also extensions built on to and next to my house. I did not bother about any regulations, Thailand is not like the UK in things like that, although things may have changed from when the soldiers bullied their way in and took control.

[MJCM]

1 hour ago, possum1931 said:

I had solar panels put up about 9 years ago, also extensions built on to and next to my house. I did not bother about any regulations, Thailand is not like the UK in things like that, although things may have changed from when the soldiers bullied their way in and took control.

Thx, but I rather ask it first then be sorry afterwards!

[NoshowJones]

9 minutes ago, MJCM said:

Thx, but I rather ask it first then be sorry afterwards!

If I want to do anything, no matter what it is, I do not go looking for rules, I just do it as long as it is not detrimental to anyone, besides my wife would probably know about any rules that matter.

[Muhendis]

1 minute ago, possum1931 said:

If I want to do anything, no matter what it is, I do not go looking for rules, I just do it as long as it is not detrimental to anyone, besides my wife would probably know about any rules that matter.

Are you Thai?

[NoshowJones]

5 minutes ago, Muhendis said:

Are you Thai?

No, from the UK. Are you a member of the "scared of your own shadow" brigade? ????

Edited December 22, 2021 by possum1931

[007 RED]

11 hours ago, Asquith Production said:

I am also looking to get into solar and so far it seems pretty straight forward but have you any recommendations on batteries. Lithium or lead acid, make? They are my main concern because of the potential for a fire.

Sorry but I can't help you on that one, my small scale system is just grid tied. 

 

Connecting to batteries is beyond my 'pay scale', and apart from that doing so would be far to expensive for the small amount of electricity we use at night, also  thankfully power cuts have been far and few between, so no real justification to go down that route.

 

Good luck

[DJ54]

On 12/21/2021 at 5:42 PM, 007 RED said:

@MJCM I've noted from your comments in a few resent threads that you seem to be reluctant to DIY.  You may well have good reasons for this, like not wishing to 'play' with electricity and I respect your concern if that be the case.  But paying through the nose to have a 'contractor' do an installation, when you could with a little bit of 'homework' DIY and most likely a far better job at the end of the day.  Apart from that, its a great learning experience as I found out.

 

As I think I mentioned in another thread, I got the 'solar panel bug' from @Crossy original post "How about a solar car port on a budget".  I openly admit that my knowledge of electrics etc is fairly basic and dates back to Ohm's Law when I was doing my degree in control system technology some 55 years ago, but after doing quite a bit of background reading up I felt that I had enough knowledge to tackle a small scale DIY project on my car port roof.

 

Yes, 'playing' with electrics has its risks, but common sense is an essential pre-requisite.

 

My biggest worry, or at least my good ladies' worry, was me working up on top of the car port roof at the age of 75.  I could tell see was worried when she got my life insurance policy out to check if falling from a great height constituted stupidity or self inflicted injuries.

 

 

Looking at your photo, you have a wonderful opportunity to create a solar panel project.  As @Crossysuggested earlier, begin with a small scale DIY system like @BritManToo or mine, with a view to convincing your other half that it's a worthwhile investment .  My little system is merrily producing about 7 units per day from 4 x 415W panels and cost approximately 28K THB.  My latest bill (16/12/21) was 269THB, against the previous month of almost 1,000 THB.  At this rate my ROI should be around 3 years which I can live with.

 

FYI.... I got a quote from a contractor to install the equivalent small scale system.  He wanted 150K plus THB, and that did not include having the system registered with the PEA.

 

Have faith in your potential ability, take the 'bull by the horns', and go for it.

 

Good luck. 

 

 

007 Red can you post picture of installed panels..... interesting.. 

[Crossy]

9 hours ago, DJ54 said:

007 Red can you post picture of installed panels..... interesting.. 

 

Have a look at this post from @007 RED