Renewable Energy

Remote Area Power Systems

Date Added: 7/08/2008

If you live in an area beyond the reach of the electricity grid (off the grid) then the remote area power system can be used to meet your electricity requirements. It can be ideal source of energy for small communities, rural properties or holiday home owners who find it too expensive to connect to the grid. 
 
Using renewable energy sources to power RAPS has been happening for nearly 20 years in Australia. In NSW over 75% of the electricity networks is used to power only 20% of users, so people off grid are not given a lot of priority. Especially when the cost of connecting to the main grid could be from $10,000 - $50,000 per kilometre of power lines. 
 
Remote Area Power Ststems (RAPS) consist of power generating equipment. This source of power can be renewable energy like solar panels (PV modules), micro hydro (water turbine) and wind turbines or a combination of these. Otherwise it could be powered by a generator (powered by Diesel, LGP or petrol). Some systems use a combination of renewable power sources which are backed up a generator. These RAPS store energy produced during the day in deep cycle batteries, so it can be used as required.
 
Parts of the RAPS
 
- Deep cycle batteries are your lead-acid variety, unlike your car battery which is shallow cycle batteries, can store and discharge more power without harm. 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 it will increase the life of the battery by preventing excessive discharge of the battery or overcharging. It may send excess power to else where i.e. 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.
 
Before deciding the size of the RAPS required, it is a good idea to do an energy audit and to minimize your energy demand e.g. get rid of your old energy eating fridge and get a more efficient rating fridge. Each system is designed by special solar engineers to be the most cost effective design and tailored to suit the individual's needs.
 
They are a number of benefits of using RAPS over generators. They do not need fuel, which often needs to travel long distances and then be stored safely. They make little noise and pollution while they generate power and they require much less maintenance. This alternative clean renewable source of energy decreases our dependency on non-renewable foreign energy sources.
 
Remote Power Rebate
 
Remote Renewable Power Generation Program (RRPGP) is a rebate that supports the use of renewable energy in homes, business and industries that are off the grid. They can replace their diesel based electricity (generators) with renewable sources (solar or wind) and claim a rebate. 
 
RAPS funding assistance schemes operate in some states. Rebates are available to subsidies up to 50% of the cost of renewable energy systems. The program is funded from the excise paid on diesel. There are number of eligibility requirements that need to be met. These are available online at Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (http://www.environment.gov.au/settlements/renewable/rrpgp/) or phone 1300 137 880.
 
Check out these websites for more information:
 - Solarshop
 - Remote Renewable Power Generation Program (RRPGP)