Educational

Off-grid solar power systems are a popular choice for people looking for living sustainably and independently. One of the most important considerations when designing off the grid system is the battery bank. This component stores the energy generated by solar panels, and provides power during night times when the sun isn't shining. The lifespan of lithium batteries is a significant factor to determine the long-term cost-efficiency of the off-grid or grid-tied system. In this blog post, we will discuss lithium battery life expectancy and explore some of the most common questions related to lithium-ion use in off-grid solar power systems, such as: How long can lithium batteries last in off-grid...

It's been tough weeks for many Québécois, as freezing rain has left hundreds of thousands of households without power. When an ice storm knocks out the electricity, it's not just an inconvenience – it can be a serious threat to your safety and comfort. That's why it's important to have a backup plan in place, and for many people in Canada, that means owning a generator.  In this blog post, we'll discuss the importance of generators during emergency situations, highlight some of the most popular models in Canada, and emphasize the importance of regular maintenance and servicing. Whether you're a...

If you're using solar panels to power a battery bank, you might have noticed that not all of your batteries are being charged equally. As a result, the battery bank may become unbalanced, which will reduce the batteries lifespan. Thankfully, a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) solar charger can assist in balancing your batteries' charges. In this blog post, we'll explore how MPPT solar chargers operate, the significance of battery equalization, and how to use an MPPT solar charge controller to achieve battery equalization. A Closer Look: MPPT VS. PWM There are two different technologies used in solar charge controllers...

Canada is increasingly relying on clean energy solutions, which has led to an increase in homeowners investing in home battery backup systems. These systems are used to store energy generated from solar panels.  With the increasing popularity of battery banks for homes and off grid solar systems, it's no surprise that there are now several options available on the market. Choosing the right battery backup system for your home can be a daunting task. The good news is that with a little bit of research, you can find a system that fits your specific needs.  In this blog post, we'll...

When it comes to energy storage for electric vehicles and renewable energy systems, lithium-ion batteries have become the go-to choice for many consumers and businesses. Compared to their lead-acid counterparts, they're lighter, more efficient, charge faster, and have a longer lifespan. However, these advantages also come with some unique challenges.  Lithium-ion or LiFePO4 batteries are more susceptible to damage from certain conditions, such as overcharging, undercharging, and overheating. To harness the full potential of these batteries, it's essential to incorporate a battery management system (BMS) into the design. In this post, we'll explore what a BMS is, how it works,...