Contact Water Pumping Lighting Appliances Solar Batteries Inverters Wind Energy Microhydro Lighting Appliances Email Checkout
Energy Alternatives Company Logo
Storefront
View Cart
Login
Account Info
Help
Contact


Brands
Categories


Categories A-Z
Manufacturers A-Z
Brands A-Z


Systems
Photovoltaic
Wind
Microhydro
Batteries
Battery Chargers
Inverters
Generators
Balance of Systems
Pumps
Books and Education


Bergey
Discover Energy
ES&D
Grundfos
Iota Engineering
Magnum Energy
Midnite Solar
Morningstar
Samlex
Schneider Electric (Xantrex)
SMA America Inc.
Xantrex
Yanmar Diesel


Bergey Windpower
Blue Sea Systems
Blue Sky Energy
Bogart Engineering
East Penn Dekka
Eco-Energy
Energy Alternatives
Energy Systems & Design
Grundfos Pumps
Honda Generators
Iota Engineering
Magnum
Midnite Solar
Morningstar
Samlex
SMA America Inc
Solar Converters International
Southwest Wind
Sun-Mar
Xantrex
Yanmar



Balance of Systems
 
Charge Controllers
Do you need a charge controller – the simple answer is yes! Charge controllers are devices used to protect batteries from damage due to overcharging. They limit the voltage and current delivered to a battery by solar, wind or microhydro generation.

Modern day controllers with sophisticated microprocessor-based circuitry have all but replaced the older on / off type controllers. When choosing a charge controller for your system keep in mind that you may want to expand your charging capability in the future. A larger controller may be a wise investment.
Meters
Having a reliable fuel gauge for your alternative energy system is essential. Knowing the status of the batteries and charging system allows you to spot trends and problems before damage occurs. Just as you wouldn’t mount the fuel gauge in the trunk of your car, your system meter should be located somewhere easily visible by everyone.

Fuses and Safety
Proper overload protection is mandatory in all electrical systems. The fact that it’s an alternative energy system does not change the fact that electricity can be dangerous if not properly protected. Even a small solar panel is quite capable of delivering short-circuit current capable of melting wires, or placing your person or property at risk.
Accessories - Outback
Use Genunine Outback accessories to complete your installation.
Accessories - Xantrex
Use Genuine Xantrex accessories to complete your installation.
Accessories - Magnum
Cables
Don't forget the cables! Energy Alternatives carries a wide variety of inverter and battery cables. If you don't see the cable you need, let us know - we can easily build custom cables to your specifications.
Diversion (Dump) Loads
Some energy sources such as microhydro and wind must maintain a constant load on the turbine regardless of the battery state of charge. These systems make use of a diversion type controller and must find somewhere to “waste” the energy. Air heaters or water heaters are common ways to make use of a bit of extra power.
Transfer Switches
Transfer switches are used to switch between different sources of AC electricity. Many inverters have transfer switches integrated. Some inverters such as the SW series allow for two AC inputs (generator or grid power) for the most flexibility.
Midnite Solar
You may not know Robin Gudgel by name, but if you have been around the Renewable Energy industry you know his products. Robin is the person responsible for the mechanical designs that so many of you use everyday. He is also one of the driving forces behind the technological advances that you now enjoy.

Starting with Trace Engineering in 1990, new standards were set for the industry. As founder of Outback Power Systems, in 2000, he ushered in a whole new line of products that have quickly become the new standard.

2005 brings a new chapter in the evolution of Robin Gudgel. He is now embarking on a new journey with a new company. MidNite Solar is his new venture and he looks forward to bringing you many exciting new products in the coming years.

Based on history, we have to believe we're in for a treat

Transformers
Transformers are used for Voltage conversion. Common uses of transformers include:

Step Down - taking the 240 Volt output form a generator and stepping down to 120 Volts

Step Up - taking the 120 Volt output from an inverter and increase to 240 Volts, typically for operation of power tools or well pumps

 
 





©EA Energy Alternatives Ltd., All rights reserved.
Mail us at: sales@EnergyAlternatives.ca