Another variation is to use a grid-intertied system. For those of us already on the grid, this can be done with out any stationary battery pack (although won't have the blackout backup). Any solar power available goes into "the grid" when the sun shines and the ET is plugged in and charges from the grid (regardless of the amount of sun shine at that moment). I have just two smallish panels and an intertie controller (Chris Zach may have had one first that I read about??) for a 100 watt system. Similar to what Jeremy and Eric and all have been saying, this gets the most power possible from the panels as there is always some place for it to go.
Eric wrote:
In my opinion I think charging a stationary pack instead of directly charging the Elec-trak gives you the freedom to do more (than just charging the ET). Coupling together the ability to recharge the ET along with other uses makes the investment in solar panels a wise investment. Don't forget to explain to the wife how if the electricity goes off again at least we have a back up system to hold us over till the electricity in our area is restored.
-- _________ Jim Coate 1992 Chevy S10 1970's Elec-Trak http://www.eeevee.com