The Druid Sustainability Resource Forum

[ambariius]

I don't live off the grid, but here is my Escape Pod if I have to split the city for awhile:


I just installed a woodstove and I will be hooking up some solar panels this spring.

[Tully]

Looks like a cute little getaway spot, for sure.

A 30 watt solar panel will keep a fairly decent charge on one or two deep-cycle marine batteries. Wherever you go to buy solar panels, they will suggest you purchase the big and expensive 6 volt deep cycle batteries...which are better in the long run, but WAY more expensive than a couple of marine/rv batteries. 12 volt systems are fun and easy to work with. We had our "remote living" home set up with 12 volt RV lights, a 12 volt stereo system, and a 12 volt TV, as well as an inverter for 120 volt AC needs. They make so many cool things for truck drivers nowdays, and it's all 12 volt for use in the trucks. I've even seen 12v microwaves! (although they probably suck the amp-hours like crazy!)

We bought our interior lights for the trailer from an RV salvage/repair shop for $5 a piece, and they take a standard automotive bulb, which I only replaced two out of 15 in three years.

Remember, you'll need a charge controller to regulate the charge from the panel to the batteries. At peak output (full direct summer sun) a 30 watt panel puts out 16+ volts, and can fry a battery. The controller regualtes the output to a constant 13.5vdc.
_________________
"Cattle die, kinsmen die, one day you yourself must die....I know one thing that never dies:
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Havamal- Sayings of the High One

[ambariius]

Hey, thanks for the tips. I have been reading up for awhile, but have little practical experience with hooking up solar. I have a friend who lives completely off the grid and has an impressive system, but the scale is totally different. I am looking more for what you suggest, which is basically a camper/trucker solution.