Off Grid in Arkansas: Page 4 of 4

Diesel Generator

The fuel-fired generator is a new Deutz diesel 18 KW generator that runs on 1/2 gallon (2 l) of fuel per hour at half load, and puts out stable 120/240 volts AC. Gene will have to pay for diesel to run it, but he can buy off-road diesel by the tanker load. This backup generator provides a nice buffer should his system require more input. The engine generator’s AC output feeds into the AC inputs of the OutBack power panel and is immediately available for direct use, to charge batteries, or both.

Pulling the Plug

After the system was installed and tested, Gene pulled the plug on his utility service. In many cases, this wouldn’t make economic or environmental sense, but the local utility is not supportive of grid-tied systems. They would have paid a low rate for Gene’s surplus electricity, while requiring him to spend at least US$2,500 to meet their equipment standards. Gene enjoys both the independence and the responsibility of having a stand-alone renewable energy system.

The system is designed with the ability to harvest the energy abundant around us in multiple ways and allows Gene to live off the land, while still enjoying all the comforts of a modern home. Having an independent energy system is a dream of many that is now a reality and a source of pride for this Arkansas homeowner. Having plenty of golfing buddies to help enjoy it with makes it that much more fun.

Access

John Miggins, Harvest Solar & Wind Power, 1571 E. 22 Pl., Tulsa, OK 74114 • 877-743-2299 or 918-743-2299 • Fax: 877‑743-2299 or 918-743-2299 • jmiggins@cox.net • www.harvest-energy.com • System designer & integrator

Gene Foster, Foster Enterprises, 8591 W. State Hwy 22, Paris, AR 72855 • 479-635-2651 • Owner & system designer

Abundant Renewable Energy (ARE) • 503-538-8298 • www.abundantre.com • AWP 3.6 wind generator

Bogart Engineering • 831-338-0616 • www.bogartengineering.com • TriMetric battery monitor

Carmanah • 800-671-0169 or 801-501-9353 • www.carmanah.com • PVs & design support

Conergy • 888-396-6611 or 505-473-3800 • www.conergy.us • Design & engineering support

Deutz Corp. • 770-564-7100• www.deutzamericas.com • Diesel engine generator

Hardy Manufacturing Co. Inc. • 800-5-Hardy-5 or 601-656-5866 • www.hardyheater.com • Outdoor wood-burning furnace

OutBack Power Systems • 360-435-6030 • www.outbackpower.com • Power panel, inverter, etc.

Sharp Solar • 800-237-4277 • www.solar.sharpusa.com • PVs

Surrette Battery Co. Ltd. • 800-681-9914 or 902-597-3767 • www.surrette.com • Batteries