Remote Access Power Systems
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If you are seeing this message, you made need to upgrade your Flash plugin, or turn on Java Script in your browser, or upgrade your browser itself (Internet Explorer, Firefox) so you can view our videos.A substantial part of rural Australia lives in areas beyond the reach of the electricity grid where it can be difficult and costly to acquire electricity. If you live in such an area, Remote Area Power Systems (RAPS) can be used to meet your electricity requirements. It is an ideal source of energy for small communities, rural properties or holiday home owners who find it too expensive to connect to the grid. Its increasing utilisation is not surprising when you consider that the average cost of connecting to the main power grid can be from $10,000 - $50,000 per kilometre of power line.
Using renewable energy sources to power RAPS has been occurring for nearly 20
years in Australia. In states like NSW, over 75% of the electricity networks is
used to power 20% of users, so people off grid are not given a lot of priority.RAPS consist of power generating equipment. This source of power can be renewable energy like solar panels (PV modules), micro hydro (water turbines) and wind turbines, or a combination of these. Non-renewable power sources could be a generator powered by diesel, LGP or petrol. Some systems use a combination of renewable power sources which are backed up by a generator.
There are a number of benefits of using RAPS over generators. Obviously RAPS do not need fuel, which means there is no need to transport fuel from far away. They make practically no noise or pollution while they generate power and they require much less maintenance. Importantly, this clean renewable source of energy decreases our dependency on non-renewable foreign energy sources.
The Remote Access Power System consists of:
- Deep cycle batteries are your lead-acid variety, unlike your car battery which is shallow cycle battery. It can store and discharge more power with less risk of harm. RAPS store energy produced during the day in deep cycle batteries, so it can be used later as required. Getting a matching sized battery is important for the RAPS. A well maintained battery bank is vital for a long lasting system.
- Controllers (AKA Regulator) are used to interface the battery with the energy source. The controller is important as it will increase the life of the battery by preventing excessive discharge of the battery or overcharging. It may send excess power to elsewhere e.g. water heater.
- Inverters are needed as they convert DC electricity to AC electricity that can be used in your house. Inverters needed match the size of the household's electrical system; they are highly efficient and reliable.
To determine what system size you need, it is a good idea to do an energy audit and minimize your energy demand. An easy way to reduce energy consumption is to trade-in all your energy hungry appliances for more efficient energy rating appliances.
Remote Power Rebate
Remote Renewable Power Generation Program (RRPGP) is a rebate that supports the use of renewable energy in homes, businesses and industries that do not have access to the power grids. When replacing diesel-based electricity (generators) with renewable sources (such as solar or wind energy) you can receive a rebate from the government.Rebates are available to subsidize up to 50% of the cost of renewable energy systems. There are number of eligibility requirements that need to be met. You can find them online at Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts or phone 1300 137 880.
To learn more about solar power visit DEUS (PDF)
To learn about Australia's Renewable Remote Power Generation Program visit the Australian Governments Renewable Energy page.
