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    outstanding's Avatar
    outstanding Posts: 1, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #1

    Jul 28, 2014, 03:58 PM
    Which is more efficient for solar power source 220v or 120v.
    Live in Europe need to live off grid. Want to maximize power.
    Missouri Bound's Avatar
    Missouri Bound Posts: 1,532, Reputation: 94
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    #2

    Jul 29, 2014, 05:52 AM
    It's hard to answer your question as stated. But I can tell you that solar panels generate DC voltage. Where you take it from there is dependent on your needs and voltage requirements.
    smoothy's Avatar
    smoothy Posts: 25,490, Reputation: 2853
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    #3

    Jul 29, 2014, 05:58 AM
    Also living in Europe... finding 120vac appliances and equipment is going to be a challenge because 220vac is the norm there.

    But I also agree with Missouri Bound. Your inverter will convert the DC to A/C and that part shouldn't make a difference. What will is your choice of lighting (should be using LED as they are by far the most efficient) and selecting the most efficient electrical and electronic devices possible. And learning to get by with less. Otherwise you need to invest in more panels and more storage batteries to make up the difference.
    ma0641's Avatar
    ma0641 Posts: 15,675, Reputation: 1012
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    #4

    Jul 29, 2014, 01:35 PM
    You will need a very large solar collector to get enough to power any decent load.
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