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Power Up Off-Grid with Bougie Bro

A practical guide to building an off-grid power station using wind energy, suitable for off-grid applications and backup power options

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I'm Bougie Bro, and I hope to bring you practical DIY solutions to help you become more independent in terms of power, food, and building materials. This project demonstrates how to build an off-grid power station using a wind turbine. Whether you're trying to charge an RV or boat, need a backup power option, or live in an area with limited power, this guide is for you. My setup involves running electric power tools and powering a few DIY systems while having high-capacity on-grid power. Your needs might be different, and that's okay.

Here is My List and Why I Selected These Items

1. Battery Box 12V with USB/DC Port/CIG Socket/Anderson Plug/Voltage Indicator

  • Why It Works: This battery box is versatile and perfect for outdoor use in RVs, campers, or boats. It has multiple ports to connect various devices and a voltage indicator to keep track of your battery's health.
  • My Use Case: It allows me to create a portable power station to manage my greenhouse controls and charge devices while I'm working outdoors.

2. Portable Automatic Power Adapter with 2500W Car Power Inverter

  • Why It Works: This inverter converts 12V DC to 110V AC, making it possible to run household appliances from a car or boat. It’s crucial for off-grid setups where you need standard US appliances.
  • My Use Case: I use it to power my essential household devices during outdoor activities and off-grid adventures.

3. VEVOR 800W Wind Turbine Generator

  • Why It Works: This wind turbine harnesses wind energy to charge batteries. With an adjustable windward direction and a low start wind speed, it’s effective in various conditions.
  • My Use Case: It supplements my solar panels, providing consistent energy to keep my off-grid system running smoothly, especially when there's wind.

4. DCHOUSE 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery

  • Why It Works: This high-capacity lithium battery is long-lasting and reliable, with up to 15,000+ cycles. It stores energy efficiently from renewable sources.
  • My Use Case: This battery is the core of my off-grid power system, ensuring I have a steady energy supply for my outdoor power needs.

Now What If You Don’t Need as Much Power or Need More Than I’m Working With?

Let’s break down how to determine what your power needs are and what might be the best solution for you, whether it's solar or wind turbines.

Basic Electrical Formulas and Terms

Understanding some basic electrical concepts can help you better assess your power needs:

Voltage (V):

  • The potential difference between two points. Measured in volts (V).

Current (I):

  • The flow of electric charge. Measured in amperes (A).

Power (P):

  • The rate at which energy is used or generated. Measured in watts (W).
  • Formula: P=V×IP = V \times IP=V×I

Energy (E):

  • The total amount of work done or energy consumed. Measured in watt-hours (Wh) or kilowatt-hours (kWh).
  • Formula: E=P×tE = P \times tE=P×t (where ttt is time in hours)

Choosing the Right Components

While I chose these products with their specifications for my needs, your needs may be more or less. Here's how to figure out what works best for you:

Battery Size:

  • Determine your daily energy consumption in watt-hours (Wh).
  • Choose a battery with a capacity at least equal to your daily energy needs.
  • Example: If you use 500Wh per day, a 12V 100Ah battery (1200Wh capacity) would be more than sufficient.

Wind Turbine Size:

  • Check your local wind speeds using the Global Wind Atlas or NREL Wind Resource Map.
  • Match the turbine capacity to your energy needs. An 800W turbine can generate significant power in areas with good wind.

Inverter Size:

  • Add up the wattage of all devices you plan to run simultaneously.
  • Choose an inverter with a capacity 20-30% higher than your total wattage.
  • Example: If your devices total 2000W, a 2500W inverter is a good choice.

Versatile Power Solutions

This off-grid setup can power a variety of things, from essential household appliances to your electronic gadgets, in case there's a power outage in your area. Even if you have solar panels installed on your roof, if they are connected to the grid, you'll still be out of power during an outage. This setup ensures you stay powered up no matter what.

Examples:

  • Powering a Greenhouse: Use the battery box and inverter to control fans, heaters, and grow lights in your greenhouse.
  • Charging Tools: Keep your power tools charged and ready for use in outdoor projects.
  • Backup Power: Maintain power for critical devices like a refrigerator or medical equipment during an outage....
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467651785_8780448292045896_6234033901468362497_n.mp4

This is the finish project. More to come.

MPEG-4 Video - 758.60 kB - 11/20/2024 at 05:31

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Detailed Cost Breakdown for Possible Upgraded Off-Grid System.pdf

This includes an upgrade option down the road. In addition, a quick guide to do an ROI if you were to set up an off-grid solution.

Adobe Portable Document Format - 67.34 kB - 08/02/2024 at 07:36

Preview

Off-Grid Power System Cheat Sheet.pdf

A Cheatsheet to understand some of the terms and concepts used in my build out.

Adobe Portable Document Format - 73.82 kB - 08/02/2024 at 05:53

Preview

  • 1 × AtemPower 12V Battery Box with USB/DC Port/CIG Socket/Anderson Plug/Voltage Indicator
  • 1 × Portable Automatic Power Adapter with 2500W Car Power Inverter Converts 12V DC to 110V AC. Essential for running household appliances off-grid.
  • 1 × VEVOR 800W Wind Turbine Generator Harnesses wind energy to charge batteries. Adjustable windward direction and low start wind speed.
  • 1 × DCHOUSE 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery High-capacity, long-lasting lithium battery. Reliable with up to 15,000+ cycles. Engineered for Off Grid Applications
  • 1 × Tools List: Crimper Tool, Soldering Kit/Gun, Wire Strippers, Multimeter, Screwdrivers (Various Sizes), Wrenches, and Pliers,

  • Lower Section of Pole Secured

    Bougie Bro08/13/2024 at 06:47 0 comments

    The pole was unscrewed allowing me to secure the lower section to the ground. I used a Green Concrete mix that was designed for my region. However, different areas and climates may need a different recipe.

    My Green Concrete recipe.

    -------------------------

    I ordered the wrong size Anderson connections. My system needs SB50 which is designed for 50 volts.  The replacements are on the way

  • Lower Section of Pole Secured

    Bougie Bro08/13/2024 at 06:47 0 comments

    The pole was unscrewed allowing me to secure the lower section to the ground. I used a Green Concrete mix that was designed for my region. However, different areas and climates may need a different recipe.

    My Green Concrete recipe.

    -------------------------

    I ordered the wrong size Anderson connections. My system needs SB50 which is designed for 50 volts.  The replacements are on the way

  • Mid Point

    Bougie Bro08/02/2024 at 05:03 0 comments

    Outstanding Items from my last log 

    •  Anderson Power Connections need to be installed and hooked up from the wind turbine to the Wind controller 
    • Assess if any additional tools are needed to mount the Wind turbine on the repurposed flag pool
    • Measure out suitable wire to run approximately 15 feet of wire from wind controller to Power Supply input

    Actions Taken and Updates 

    1. Anderson Power Connections Installation:

    • Components Ordered:
      • 175A Battery Connector for 175A 600V Plug, Quick-Connector Disconnector Housing 2-Pole (Red, 4 AWG):
        • Reason: These connectors are high-current capable and provide a quick disconnect feature, making maintenance and installation easier.
      • MJPOWER Anderson-to-8mm Extension Cable 10FT/3m 14AWG Wire 8mm DC Power Plug Adapter:
        • Reason: Provides flexibility in connecting various components and extends the reach of the Anderson connectors.
      • JooFn 175A Plug Mounting Panel with Cover for Anderson SB175 Connectors Flush Mount Recessed Plate (Red-1pc):
        • Reason: To ensure a secure and professional mounting of the Anderson connectors on the panel.
    • Action Taken:
      • Anderson connectors will be installed to facilitate easy connections and disconnections between the wind turbine and the wind controller.

    2. Tools for Mounting Wind Turbine:

    • Assessment:
      • No additional tools were identified as necessary after reviewing the mounting requirements for the repurposed flag pole.
    • Update:
      • The current tools are deemed sufficient for mounting the wind turbine. Adjustments will be made based on the specific installation process.

    3. Wire Measurement and Installation:

    • Components Ordered:
      • 4 AWG Battery Cable 4AWG Gauge Pure Copper Battery Inverter Cables with 3/8 in Lugs Both Ends Power Inverter Wire Set (9in):
        • Reason: Ensures minimal resistance and efficient power transfer over short distances.
      • 4 Gauge 4 AWG 20 Feet Red + 20 Feet Black (40 Feet Total) Welding Battery Pure Copper Flexible Cable Wire:
        • Reason: Provides the necessary length and flexibility to connect from the wind controller to the power supply input.
      • TKDMR and Sanuke Wire Lugs Ring Terminal Connectors Ends Heavy Duty for Battery Cable Lug Wire Electrical Eyelets with 3:1 Dual Wall Adhesive Heat Shrink:
        • Reason: To ensure secure and durable connections at the terminals.
    • Action Taken:
      • Measured and prepared the 15 feet of wire required for the connection from the wind controller to the power supply input.
      • Selected 4 AWG wire to handle the current capacity and minimize voltage drop.

    Update:

    1. (My buddy offered me and allowed me to pick up some solar panels, resulting in this beneficial upgrade to the project. Solar Panel Integration) (Change and Unintended Upgrade):
    • Components Ordered:
      • Thunderbolt Magnum Solar 100 Watt Solar Panel Kit:
        • Reason: To provide an additional renewable energy source for charging the battery, complementing the wind turbine setup. I will not use the solar controller as it needs to be powered and hook the Solar DC connection to an adaptor that will connect to my Adderson input/output connect. 

    Additional Components and Their Purposes:

    • Cordless Heat Gun:
      • Reason: For shrinking heat shrink tubing on connections, ensuring they are insulated and protected from environmental factors.
    • LeMotech Junction Box:
      • Reason: To house and protect electrical connections, ensuring they are kept safe from dust and moisture.
    • VenxyKod Bus Bar 5/16" Power Distribution Block 250A 12V Terminal Block 4 Studs Junction Block with Cover:
      • Reason: For efficient distribution of power and organization of connections, providing a clean and safe installation.
    • ANDERSON POWER PRODUCTS 111038G2 INSERTION EXTRACTION TOOL:
      • Reason: To facilitate easy insertion and extraction of Anderson connectors, ensuring secure and reliable connections.

    Summary:

    • Anderson Power Connections: Components ordered and ready for installation.
    • Tools for Mounting Wind Turbine: Current tools are sufficient.
    • Wire Measurement: 4 AWG wire measured and prepared for the required 15-foot run.
    • Solar Panel Integration: Solar panel...
    Read more »

  • Initial Set Up

    Bougie Bro07/21/2024 at 10:17 0 comments

    The following items were successfully set up and or installed: 

    • Wind Turbine
    • Invertor
    • Battery
    • Battery Box/ Power Station 

    The below items were successfully tested and running as expected: 

    • Battery Box/ Power Station
    • Battery

    --------------------------------------------------------

    Next Steps

    •  Anderson Power Connections need to be installed and hooked up from the wind turbine to the Wind controller 
    • Assess if any additional tools are needed to mount the Wind turbine on the repurposed flag pool
    • Measure out suitable wire to run approximately 15 feet of wire from wind controller to Power Supply input

View all 4 project logs

  • 1
    Build Instructions

    Gather All Components and Tools

    • Battery Box 12V with USB/DC Port/CIG Socket/Anderson Plug/Voltage Indicator
    • Portable Automatic Power Adapter with 2500W Car Power Inverter
    • VEVOR 800W Wind Turbine Generator
    • DCHOUSE 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery
    • Thunderbolt Magnum Solar 100 Watt Solar Panel Kit
    • Anderson Power Connections (175A Battery Connector, Extension Cable, Mounting Panel)
    • VenxyKod Bus Bar 5/16" Power Distribution Block 250A 12V Terminal Block with Cover
    • LeMotech Junction Box with Reserved Holes ABS Plastic Electrical Box IP65
    • QCDENG 3/8" Pure Brass Junction Post
    • Cordless Heat Gun for Shrink Wrapping
    • Wire Lugs (Sanuke and TKDMR 4 AWG - 3/8" (M10))
    • 4 AWG Battery Cable (20 Feet Red + 20 Feet Black)
    • Tools:
  • Crimper Tool
  • Soldering Kit/Gun
  • Wire Strippers
  • Multimeter
  • Screwdrivers (Various Sizes)
  • Wrenches and Pliers
  • Heat Shrink Tubing and Heat Gun
  • Electrical Tape
  • Mounting Hardware
  • Cable Ties
  • 2
    Set Up the Battery Box

    1. Place the 12V LiFePO4 battery into the battery box.
    2. Connect the battery terminals to the box's connectors using a screwdriver. Ensure all connections are tight and secure.
    3. Use the multimeter to verify the voltage of the battery.

  • 3
    Install the Wind Turbine
    1. Select a location with good wind exposure for mounting the wind turbine.
    2. Assemble the wind turbine according to the manufacturer's instructions.
    3. Mount the wind turbine using the provided mounting hardware. Ensure it is securely fastened.
    4. Connect the wind turbine's output wires to the MPPT controller.

  • View all 9 instructions

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