Hybrid Solar

There are a number of ways of defining hybrid solar applications. Some definitions describe combining geothermal concepts with solar heating concepts... other ideas involve the extraction of heat from PV panels since PV systems run more efficiently at lower temps.

My idea of hybrid solar involves using PV power to harvest solar heat... To do this a battery backup system is often involved that uses a charge controler to protect the battery. Some fancy charge controllers have a price tag in excess of $1000, but a simple charge controller used to power a pump used in a drainback system may only require a $10 investment.

Here is how it works... http://www.jc-solarhomes.com/DIY/Charge_Controller.htm