Photovoltaic Basics

Photovoltaics (solar island system) for the garden house

Photovoltaics for your own garden house is a cheap and environmentally friendly method of supplying it with electricity. Even a small solar system is enough for a garden house to operate lighting, garden tools or a pond pump. Alternatively, you can of course also choose a larger system.

Types of solar systems for garden houses

For your garden house you can choose between different types of solar systems. Depending on how large your electricity needs are and where the Location of the garden house, there are various options. If there is no connection to the public power grid, you can choose a self-sufficient mini solar system. If your electricity needs are high, the complete PV system rather the better choice.

mini solar system 

A mini solar system is one of the most frequently chosen solar systems for garden houses. It is a photovoltaic island system that is not connected to the public grid. It can therefore be installed anywhere sufficient sunlight Since the system is small and requires only a few solar modules, these can best direct be mounted on the roof of the garden house.

The advantage of a mini solar system is the simple construction and installation. In addition, no permit is required for operation, as there is no connection to the power grid. However, if your garden house is in a allotment garden If you are planning to install a solar panel, it is best to ask whether it is permitted. This type of self-sufficient photovoltaic system is particularly suitableif electricity is rarely or only to a small extent needed.

Only operate the system for smaller 12-volt devices like a radio, you can use the direct current from the PV modules directly. If you also want to use larger 230-volt devices operate, like a refrigerator, you need an inverterThis converts the direct current into household alternating current. 

Complete PV system

Do you want many more powerful devices such as a refrigerator, television and various garden tools, you may want to consider a complete PV system. A complete photovoltaic system has larger solar modules, which more deliver performance. These can be set up as stand-alone or feed-in systems. In the second option, the PV system is connected to the power grid. This allows the excess electricity to be fed into the public grid. fed in or in an emergency, power can be drawn from the grid. In this case, a power supply is always guaranteed.

In an island system, a power storage requiredIt stores the solar power and makes it available to you in the evening and at night. Although power storage is expensive, but long-term save electricity costsWith an electricity storage system, it is even possible to completely cover your own needs. For feed-in systems, the storage system is optional. 

Structure and function of a solar island system for the garden house

One solar island system for the garden house is constructed similarly to a conventional solar system on the roof. The solar modules are installed on the garden house or a free area in the garden. The solar cells in the modules produce when exposed to sunlight direct currentThe direct current is transmitted through the solar cables. 

The solar cables lead to the charge controllerIt controls the charging of the 12-volt consumers and the charging and discharging of the power storage. This will extend the lifespan of the batteries increased and protects the devices from short circuits.

The power storage is connected behind the charge controller. It is charged when the solar modules have a electricity surplus produce. The stored electricity can then be used later. The inverter is then connected. It converts the direct current into usable alternating current around.

230-volt appliances, such as lawnmowers and refrigerators, require alternating current.

Requirements for installation - what you should consider when planning

Before you buy a solar system for your garden house, you should Exactly planThis is important to ensure the size of the facility This will help you avoid a too expensive oversized solar system or a too smallthat does not cover your consumption. 

Therefore, make a list with everyone electrical consumers. This includes:

  • lamps and outdoor lighting
  • Appliances in the garden house (refrigerator, stove, radio, television, charging cable, etc.)
  • Garden tools (lawn mowers, hedge trimmers, etc.)
  • irrigation systems 
  • pond pump
  • heat pump
  • Electric grill

When creating the list, add up how many kilowatt hours the devices consume and How long They are running. This way you can determine your average daily requirement. For devices that regularly run in the evening or at night, you should electricity storage in your system. This should be defined in such a way that it can be used in bad weather electricity for 3-4 days can provide.

Determine your electricity needs generousso that enough power is available even in poor light. 

When planning, you should also consider the Location of the PV system. Is your roof area large enough? Is the inclination and orientation suitable? In addition, the roof area must not be obstructed by trees or other plants. shaded If your garden house roof is not suitable, you can also install your system on a terrace or lawn area set up.

Installation of solar panels on the garden house

Installation of solar panels on the garden house can be done by yourself To do this, the module brackets are screwed onto the roof. Then the wiring is connected and pulled into the interior of the house. There, the charge controller, power storage and inverter are connected one after the other. Finally, the inverter is connected to the junction box tied together.

If you do not have the necessary craftsmanship, you should rather hire a specialist company for photovoltaic systems. 

Costs of a solar system for the garden house

mini solar systems for 12-volt devices cost between 250 and 350 €. With storage the price is 550 €. solar systems, which can also supply 230-volt devices, start with power storage at 800 € The costs for a garden house solar system depend on the performance

Advantages and Disadvantages of Photovoltaics for Garden Houses

AdvantagesDisadvantages
Can be installed anywhere and by yourselfExcess electricity is lost
Independent of the power gridNo power from the grid in an emergency
Solar power is cheaper than grid powerExpensive to purchase with power storage
Environmentally friendlyRather unused in winter

Conclusion

A solar system for your garden house provides you environmentally friendly with electricity. The system can be assembled by yourself with a little skill and tailored to your individual consumption can be adjusted. For larger PV systems, you should hire a specialist company. Be sure to calculate exactly when and how much electricity you need. With costs from 250 € With a small system you can operate a radio, switch on lights or power a camping fridge.

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