Solar Power In Extremadura, Spain
We have consulted with one of Spain’s solar power experts as there seems to be a wealth of information available on the internet, not all of it factually correct.
What is solar power?
Why would I need to use solar power?
How much power will I get from solar panels?
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a) Solar power is energy converted from sunlight to usable free electricity through a conversion system which is part of the solar pack.
b) Solar panels are dependant on the sun but will also charge by moonlight.
c) A common myth is that solar panels must be placed on a roof for them to be at maximum efficiency, this is not the case, if panels are not properly aligned, you could damage your system and panels will not attain maximum possible power or last as long as the manufacturers standard 25 year guarantee.
d) We have read many articles about how easy it is to install solar panels, easy if you are a solar power surveyor and an electrician, if not don’t attempt it. It is a costly business better left to the professionals.
2. a) If you have bought a finca which is not connected to the main electricity
grid. You may not get permission to connect.
The government of Spain by law is expected to encourage its residents
to make use of alternative energy.
b) If you have no option but to look at alternative power, please remember
this can be a long expensive process. We have seen recently quotes of
10,000 euros for full systems which guarantee you all the power you
need. A short quote here comes to mind“what a load of crap”.
Don’t be fooled, we are professionals and believe that our clients need to
know the facts before buying something which is not connected to the
grid, we know life on a finca sounds wonderful, but before you buy
we need to advise you about the extra costs and work involved.
3. How much power will I get from my solar power kit?
a) This depends on the type of kit you choose, one example for a standard
finca is……
A Policristalino Solar Kit from Engel Solar.
It comprises of…….
5 solar panels
Regulator 45 A
6 large batteries (like submarine batteries)
Inversor 800 W. (needed to convert the power)
Supports for the panels.
This kit is priced at 11,838 euros plus IBA (vat) this does not include
Installation or a back up generator which is essential because the sun does
not shine all year.
This solar kit does not operate as a normal supply. Power is limited
according to daily consumption.
Back up generators must be compatible with the solar kit (not just any
generator will do).
A compatible standard generator will cost approximately 5000euros.
A silent generator will cost approximately 6500 euros.
To buy and install this solar kit and silent generator will cost approx 22,000 euros.
What is the process of solar power and generator installation?
1. The solar power company surveyors will visit your home, they will measure and survey your land to find out which is the most suitable place for solar panels.
2. The surveyors will discuss with you your daily power consumption and find out exactly what appliances you will be using.
3. All this information will be gathered then converted to find out exactly what type of kit you will need.
4. Your solar company will give you a quote for the complete purchase and installation of your system, it’s then up to you to decide whether you proceed with the work.
TIP……. Ask if there is a charge for the quote or the surveyors time because there is a lot of work involved in preparation of your quote.
Possible Extra Costs
1. Any rewiring work on your finca. If your finca does not have any internal wiring this would be a separate charge.
2. Preparation of land area for the panels. The panels need to be placed on a flat surface, so the ground needs to be flat and have a concrete surface. (this is not an expensive job, you can ask the company to include this in their quote.
3. Batteries, sensors etc need to be housed in a small waterproof building, as it is dangerous and illegal to keep the batteries in the house because they are acid based.
TIP……Ask for any extra work to be quoted and itemized.
Solar Power Grants Systems
Varies from region to region, previously an interest free loan was available, now some regions are offering grants at different percentages of the total costs of the solar kit (this does not include generator). Any professional solar company will know what grants you can receive,
TIP………you should ask them to apply for this for you, as the paperwork can be complicated. You should also ask how much time will have to pass before you are refunded the percentage of your grant, recent articles have suggested that grants will be paid after a certain time period has elapsed.
Don’t bank on the grants dramatically reducing the cost as all fees must be paid by you up front before any monies are reimbursed through the grants system.
