Periodically, we release technical bulletins about products and issues of interest to the renewable energy community. Review the PDF Tech Notes listed below to learn more about these topics.
Hydro Power Tech Notes
Tech Notes specifically relating to various aspects of micro-hydro power installations and systems design with the turbines available on this site.
Battery Performance Tables
Batteries perform differently under various circumstances. These reference tables show the interactions between battery discharge rate, electrolyte specific gravity, ambient temperature and battery capacity.
Maximum Power Point Tracking in Charge Controllers
MPPT technology ensures that a charge controller delivers maximum charging current to your battery bank during the bulk charging stage.
Battery Charger Power Factors
How to size a battery charger to your generator’s electrical output. Prevent dangerous generator overload situations by purchasing a correctly-sized charger for both your generator and your battery bank.
Gell Cell Batteries vs. Regular Lead Acid Types
Non-spillable or “gell cell” batteries may be a good choice for less strenuous applications where repeated deep discharge is not a common occurence.
Diodes in Solar Panels and Arrays
Diodes can play important roles in maximizing the effectivness of solar power systems, from preventing battery drain to maximizing production of a partially shaded panel.
Solar Panel Power Production
Many factors affect power output in solar arrays. By understanding how these factors work, you can design an array for maximum output at your location. While this Tech Note mentions Photowatt panels by name, the information applies to any solar array panel.
Energy Efficient Refrigeration
There are two primary forms of refrigeration systems. Understand the difference between ammonia absorption and electric compressor systems, and make an informed decision about which type of refrigerator/freezer system is best suited for your power system.