| Here are some plain facts about the advantages and | | | | - you need to be cautious with keeping lights off when |
| disadvantages of powering homes off grid. | | | | not using them |
| I have been living off grid for over 14 years now with | | | | - you need to maintain your power generation - |
| my cottage. | | | | maintain batteries, make sure equipment is working |
| I was forced to find alternative sources of power and | | | | properly etc. |
| was not, and am still not, interested in smelly, noisy | | | | - initial investment |
| generators. | | | | Now most of you are probably not in my shoes. I was |
| So I decided that solar was my answer. | | | | forced to find an alternative power source. I could |
| I have implemented full solar power at my cottage. In | | | | have easily bought a generator like most of my |
| fact, if you did not see the panels, you would never | | | | cottage neighbours. But I wanted peace and quiet |
| know I completely make my own electricity. | | | | from my cottage. |
| For water, I have a 12 volt water pump that pumps | | | | If you are considering implementing remote solar or |
| water from a 160' deep well to a tank resting atop of | | | | solar for your home, make sure you follow a plan that |
| a 20' water tower. Through the amazing forces of | | | | will ensure your success. |
| gravity, this tank feeds my cottage. | | | | Other things I would recommend you do if you are |
| The advantages are: | | | | serious about solar power, is switch you hot water |
| - zero bills | | | | over to natural gas (or propane) from electric. Switch |
| - no concerns with storms cutting off my power | | | | your stove from electric to gas as well. These |
| supply | | | | appliances are huge drainers of electricity. |
| - freedom from the grid | | | | To reduce the upfront investment, I would suggest you |
| - strong feeling of accomplishment (that I do not rely | | | | consider building your own panels. Parts are easy to |
| on anybody) | | | | find. You can use common tools. All you need a an |
| Now the disadvantages: | | | | easy to follow step by step plan. |
| - you could run out of power | | | | |