So let me begin explaining the inner workings of an off-grid solar system. This simplistic picture from Wholesale Solar’s homepage explains the concept very well. The solar panels (often referred to as PV (photo voltaic) modules) produce energy when the … Continue reading
The inflation adjusted return for Dow Jones is 7.9% since 1990 – a 25 year period. In other words a very comparable financial return to investing in solar. Continue reading
All too often I run into people who can’t grasp the significant difference between being off-grid vs. energy neutral. Continue reading
It’s time to take a more serious look at domestic rain water collection. Continue reading
The WordPress.com prepared a 2015 annual report for my blog. I guess off-grid living is becoming a hot topic. The blog was viewed about 19,000 times in 2015. If it were a concert at Sydney Opera House, it would take about 7 sold-out … Continue reading
For most of the year my batteries are fully charged around 11a in the morning. This means that I’ve more power than I know what to do with for the entire afternoon. My 6.5kW array will produce and waste at … Continue reading
The announcement of Tesla’s Powerwall last week has been a long time in the making. The Solar industry in one of the fastest growing industries in US right now and a large number of energy conscious households are installing roof … Continue reading
As I’m putting the second off-grid winter behind me, I’ve learned more about the behaviour of my well pump and septic system and how it effects the batteries. My Grundfoss SQFlex well pump (1HP) runs for approx. 3 hours using 500W and the Orenco … Continue reading
The problem is I don’t want a Ford – I want a Tesla S. Ford C-MAX Solar Energy Concept is first-of-its-kind sun-powered vehicle with the potential to deliver the best of a plug-in hybrid without depending on the electric grid … Continue reading
Living off-grid requires careful consideration when you design your system and purchase appliances, pumps etc. If done right you only have to pay little attention to your energy use on a daily basis. As mentioned in an earlier post (https://modern-off-grid.com/2013/12/30/off-grid-solar-101/) the most … Continue reading
If your house is already connected to the grid – or your new house is close enough to get connected – would you ever consider going off-grid?. Contrary to popular belief – my answer is definitely NO. Unless you’re concerned … Continue reading
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