Off Grid Power

[kccadcam]

I have a standard 5000w gas powered generator for power outages.
Such a pain in the ass.
Started looking at whole house automatic backup generators like Kohler and Cummins.

Then started comparing to off-grid or grid-assist battery/solar kits.
I'm liking this better, there are multiple ways to charge the batteries.
You can charge from the Power grid, Solar panels, and or a Generator if there is no sun.
The inverters can be controlled through home automation to monitor power consumption.
(I've been running Home Assistant and incorporating utility usage is a big part of it.)

Anybody have any experiences installing and setting up?
Need to get a transfer switch wired next to the main panel.

Something like this that will put out 240V and 120V AC and is expandable.
(more solar panels and more batteries)

Off Grid Kits
 

[YoDoug]

I have no experience with off grid power, but I am curious. Please keep this thread updated as you go down the path you choose.

[kccadcam]

Check out this Youtube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@WillProwse

[CADCAM396]

I run a few small systems. have been for about 7-10 yeears.
largest is 300 watt solar array with 4 6 volt golf cart batteries. this runs my shop lighting in a 250 square foot area. and com systems. I can run my pellet stove off this but suspect it would draw me down to 4 hrs max run time.
the others are for walk way lights and another on my RV.
batteries have been my largest challenge. using deep cycle led batteries they only last about 4-5 years before I cycle them down to my walk way light system (then nurse them a couple of years). lifepo 4 looks to be my next move when my batteries lose there life. said to last 10 years? IDK yet.
pretty expensive way to make power in my experience but it is always there, just flip the switch.

[beej]

My in-laws bought a solar panel system. They didn't go off grid though. they bought  a system that was capable of providing enough electricity to match their smallest electric bill of the year. So in spring and fall they generally have no electric bill or may even be owed a few bucks. In summer and winter they pay about 30 dollars.. they also purchased a whole house backup propane generator.

The cost of the system was about the same as if they were paying the electric bill for a 20 year period, which is the  life expectancy of the panels. That can't be a coincidence, in my opinion.  I guess though, that if electric prices go up. They will be mostly unaffected by it.

[HTM01]

I guess though, that if electric prices go up. They will be mostly unaffected by it.

i had solar put in 2014
i locked in at $.135 per kw for 20 years, eversource just raised their rate to $.24 kw
i didn't pay anything and dont own them but have to buy all that they generate
usual bill is $9 to eversource and under $100 for solar except December and January
they plan the system from 70-80% of your 2 year use but i had a pool then so its close to covering my use

[kccadcam]

i had solar put in 2014
i locked in at $.135 per kw for 20 years, eversource just raised their rate to $.24 kw
i didn't pay anything and dont own them but have to buy all that they generate
usual bill is $9 to eversource and under $100 for solar except December and January
they plan the system from 70-80% of your 2 year use but i had a pool then so its close to covering my use

Is it installed as a Grid-Tie system or Grid-assist system (or off-Grid)?
The problem with Grid-tie is if the power goes out you can't use the system on it's own.
With grid-assist (or off-grid) you have a transfer switch that physically disconnects your circuits from the grid.

I want the ability to run my Home off the grid if necessary.

https://www.solarreviews.com/blog/grid-tied-off-grid-and-hybrid-solar-systems

[mkd]

the carbon monoxide exhaust huffers in this forum are going to crucify you. Better retreat while the getting is good  
j/k

[mkd]

I want the ability to run my Home off the grid if necessary.

not sure but guessing that's a felony.

[HTM01]

Is it installed as a Grid-Tie system or Grid-assist system (or off-Grid)?
The problem with Grid-tie is if the power goes out you can't use the system on it's own.
With grid-assist (or off-grid) you have a transfer switch that physically disconnects your circuits from the grid.

I want the ability to run my Home off the grid if necessary.

https://www.solarreviews.com/blog/grid-tied-off-grid-and-hybrid-solar-systems

no battery plan on selling soon
plus we have underground power very seldom lose power
bought a generator during storm Sandy on east coast haven't had to use it since

[Tim Johnson]

not sure but guessing that's a felony.

Everything's a felony in Californistan.

[CNCAppsJames]

Everything's a felony in Californistan.

Truer words have NEVER been spoken.