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I dont know if your familiar with the open source software philosophy but I intend to start a project to create and 'open source' inverter.

I used to be a microchip designer and am always amazed at how expensive grid tied inverters are.
I am hoping to collect information on inverter designs and eventually create a modular design that can be used in parts or as a whole:
1) Controller - generates 50/60 hz and can PLL to mains and will drive one or more
2) 0.5KVA DC->AC modules 12/24/48 dc 120/240 ac
3) 12/24/48V charger
4) Grid Isolator so when the wind blows your mains feed down you dont have to sit in the dark!

Its not my aim to make it 98% efficient but to produce a controller for ~£100 and then ~£30 for each 1/2KW unit for grid tied..

Any knowledge welcome
Tom[/list]

if you can do it, you'll be the answer to a lot of prayers!
The supply of grid-tie inverters is patchy, they are ludicrously expensive for what they are, and even some of the "industry leading" inverters are utter rubbish when used for wind turbines (designed for pv, and badly modified by the manufacturers for wind use).......go for it!

Martin wrote:if you can do it, you'll be the answer to a lot of prayers!
they are ludicrously expensive for what they are, and even some of the "industry leading" inverters are utter rubbish when used for wind turbines (designed for pv, and badly modified by the manufacturers for wind use).......go for it!

is this why my mate blew up his 'windyboy' whilst connecting it to his turbine?

they did not admit liability but did supply him a replacement at cost

cheers, paul

Hi Tom

What is the progress on your open source grid inverter?

Best

Stevend

I've been a bit busy with my farm and the bad weather and hand feeding lambs and trying to get my veggie patch up and running - I'm about two months late this year and may go a little hungry.
I have, however done a bit of research and am in contact with a couple of universities to see if I can get some of the work done as student projects.
Many hands make light work if you'll pardon the pun.

I'll try and publish a few ideas when the weather calms down ( we've just had some 60mph+ gusts which have made a mess of my beans!