Product Description

Issue Contents:

In issue 152 we bring you an updated energy storage guide, considering what has changed since we last tackled the subject in 2017. That means more systems ‘in a box’, changing economics and an in-depth look at how batteries can provide backup to your home in the case of blackouts. To go with the guide, we look at 6 case studies of homes and offices using batteries, on- and off-grid. As many more of us are working from home, we look at how to make our home offices more efficient. Plus: articles on the sustainability of compostable plastics, our solar modelling calculator’s analysis of the impacts of overshadowing, a project in Timor Leste that’s using open-source plans to build plastic recycling machines and the future of EV charging.

Inside you’ll find:

Features

• The energy-efficient home office

  How do you keep on top of your power bills when working from home? We look at efficient computing, heating, lighting and more.

• Energy storage buyers guide

  Demand for home battery systems has been growing steadily. We look at the factors and features to consider when buying a battery, and the options available.

• Saving your solar for later

  From an off-grid shop in the city, to a house that’s been running from Powerwalls for four years, to homes helping the grid as part of a virtual power plant, we look at the results of six battery installs.

Other articles

• 7 ways to build resilience

  In the face of twin disasters this year, we reflect on what’s needed in the recovery process. Can we build a more resilient, cleaner economy?

• How green are compostable plastics?

  We look into the difference between biodegradable and compostable plastics, how these plastic types are being used in Australia, and just how sustainable they are.

• Small-scale plastic recycling

  This Timor Leste project is collecting and recycling ocean plastic waste, using recycling machines built from open-source plans.

• When your solar is overshadowed

  Renew has added analysis of the impacts of overshadowing by neighbouring buildings to our solar modelling tool, Sunulator. Here’s how it works—warning: technical (but interesting) information ahead!

• The science behind the climate emergency

  The students are right, says Climate Councillor Will Steffen—we are in a climate emergency, and the science supports this. He reviews the data demonstrating temperature and emissions increases, and the huge risk from reaching tipping points.

• Electric camping

  Kent Taylor shows how a small solar and battery system means you can go all-electric when caravanning—even taking your induction cooker!

• DIY hot water from PV

  These simple hot water systems  use PV panels to heat water directly: no pumps, batteries, power converters or other devices required.

• The future of EV charging

  Will you soon be able to use your electric vehicle’s battery to power your home? And is DC charging only for long-distance travel? Bryce Gaton looks at changes that may be just around the corner for EV charging.

• Backup power from an EV

  Richard Keech describes his method of powering some essentials in his home using his plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.