When we installed the PV grid tie array we used Enphase microinverters. These convert the DC to AC and there is one on each panel. Besides their other benefits, they can transmit data over the AC line about its performance. This data is accessible through an interface box simply plugged into any outlet. From there you may connect to your computer for simple monitoring or have a very comprehensive display and archive on a website that Enphase creates for you. Of course, this requires a broadband connection.
Our shop has DSL, however we are at the maximum distance from the phone company's DSL box at 19,000 feet. Our house is even further out making landline DSL impossible.
The solution? A point to point wireless bridge. If you don't have any hills in the way, you can beam two way data for up to 3 miles. It can even overcome a few trees in the way.
The cost is under $500 which is a one time charge. If we could get landline DSL it would cost us $49 forever. This thing will pay for itself in 10 months
Greenbrier Communications of Lewisburg, WV selected the hardware and will be configuring the system tomorrow. If all goes well, we will be posting a link for you to see our grid tie array in action.
Besides accommodating the data, we will have wifi in our house. This will be especially handy if I want to research a new recipe for dinner. All is right with the world.....
Having the internet and UPS makes living and working in "the country" possible.
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