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 rapidly embracing clean energy, and more homeowners are investing in home battery storage systems to store power from their solar panels. As electricity costs rise and power outages become more common across provinces, reliable energy storage is becoming a smart addition to many Canadian homes. With the growing demand for home battery backup systems and off-grid solar kits, the market now offers a wide variety of options. Choosing the right battery bank can feel overwhelming, but understanding how each system works will help you find one that matches your energy needs, climate, and budget. In this guide, 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,...