I am looking into using solar energy and generators for commercial use. Using the solar energy during the day is a piece of cake obviously. But I would need a backup generator for night-time use. If I were to get a commercial grade backup generator, could I essentially recharge it during the day while it is not in use? Any other suggestions that this route are welcome. Maybe even a backup storage (battery) for the the excess solar energy. Something to store the unused energy?
well, thats will need very big battery capacity and also inverter ofcourse
if you are using a classical gas or diesel powered generator there would be no need for recharging obviously if you are using a bank of batteries and a inverter to convert the DC voltage to AC, then you would need to size your solar power system large enough to both run your home and charge up the batteries so enough power would be stored for night time use and seasonal adjustments.
Generator is a vague word. Assuming you are using it to mean motor-generator sets which have a gas or diesel engine driving an alternator. No, you can't charge a motor generator set, it runs on gasoline or diesel fuel, you can't convert sunlight or electricity to fuel. But, you can use excess power during the day to charge batteries that can be later used to supply power. Note that battery storage can be expensive, and needs a lot of space and maintenance. .
