What to Ask Yourself Before Installing an Off-Grid Solar System

Question One: What do you want to run on your solar power system?

This is one of the most important factors in any off-grid system. This means you have to know how much your equipment is going to consume in order to balance your energy needs with your solar energy supply.

This is where you can do a power audit of the devices that will be on your system.

What you'll do is list out all the loads, note down the home appliances that you use on a daily basis, and for how long each day. This will include televisions, lights, fans, computers, and so on. 

You will need to look up the wattage each device uses and multiply that by how many hours a day they are used. 

For instance: Five 45-watt light bulbs X 5 hours per day = 225 watts. It also helps to know what the largest load you expect to run like an air conditioner, pool pump, water heater, compressor, etc. 

Question Two: How long without sun do you want to be able to run your stuff?

Typically, plan for 72 hours or 3 days. This will be important when calculating your battery storage. This will also help you decide if backup power sources, such as portable generators or adding wind turbines.

Question Three: What is your budget?

Using energy-efficient lighting and appliances, as well as non-electric alternatives (propane stoves and refrigerators) should be considered. Start by conserving as much as possible first. It is always cheaper to save electricity than to generate electricity.

Every bit of power you can save will help to lower the cost of your off-grid system. 

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