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I'm honored to share my experiences here. While the initial expenses related to going off-grid may be exorbitant (to some) the resulting savings more than make

by D9u 13y ago

I'm honored to share my experiences here. While the initial expenses related to going off-grid may be exorbitant (to some) the resulting savings more than makes up for it, and you can always incrementally add to your system as finances permit. I have had damage due to electrical storm, but placing a TV antenna higher than the panels has worked for the past 10 years or so. Another concern is equipment replacement, with batteries being replaced at about a five year interval, depending on usage and maintenance. Most of the newer panels are warranted for 25 to 30 years at 90% of rated output but the panels will continue to produce power for many years afterward. You'll learn to be frugal if you begin with a small setup, as I did, but that's what we're trying to to so I've adjusted well. My electronics are definitely better off as a result of cleaner power from my pure sine wave inverter, which produces much better electricity and no voltage sags or spikes unlike our local municipal power monopoly. I'm definitely a believer in alternate energy.

eksith 13y ago
Thanks a bunch! Yes, I thought the first things to go would have been excess luxury. An annual budget for maintenance, I think, actually wouldn't be too hard to setup if the rest of your expenses are proportionally lowered. I've been told that metal roofs are a better fit with solar panels, but that's an additional cost. Hopefully that will pay off in longevity. I hadn't thought about expanding incrementally. I can see how that will significantly make things easier as upfront costs won't be as far out. Also, efficiencies are better with newer models so you actually end up paying somewhat less per watt. Frugality is something I've had some (involuntary) experience with in the past. ;) I don't think it'll be too hard to return to some of that. Also it's better for all of us in the end.

by D9u 13y ago

eksith 13y ago

Thanks a bunch! Yes, I thought the first things to go would have been excess luxury. An annual budget for maintenance, I think, actually wouldn't be too hard to setup if the rest of your expenses are proportionally lowered. I've been told that metal roofs are a better fit with solar panels, but that's an additional cost. Hopefully that will pay off in longevity. I hadn't thought about expanding incrementally. I can see how that will significantly make things easier as upfront costs won't be as far out. Also, efficiencies are better with newer models so you actually end up paying somewhat less per watt. Frugality is something I've had some (involuntary) experience with in the past. ;) I don't think it'll be too hard to return to some of that. Also it's better for all of us in the end.