Well, we finally took the plunge over the edge.
My ranch has been running on wind and solar for about three yers now. We have a 32 foot RV trailer with all the amenities, AC gas het, stove and have been trying to stay off the grid. Solar & wind powers two large 12 volt Batteries that provide lights, pumps TV and via an inverter, any 110V devices that draw less than 15 Amps.
All is backed up with a generator for the water heater AC and power tools for construction.
Two generators, five solar panels, three inverters and a 12V DC charger later, I am done with it. It is just too much trouble to keep all of those systems operating without a lot of attention to use, power consumption and mechanical failures. Plus, we burn 5 to 10 gallons of fuel a week.
So last week end we had the engineer from the local power company come out. Two poles and a small deposit,,,,$900.00. A meter drop loop $500.00,,,,A 200 AMP panel with sufficient breakers for now,,,, $350.00.
Not having to get up at Two in the morning to fill or fire the generator,,,,,PRICELESS.
We have finally started construction of the cabin. So I guess it will work out for the best.
The cabin started out as a 16' X 12' two story cozy abode for the week-end visits. It is now planned to be about 1200 square feet with a loft. Permanent residence.
It should take me a year to do the rough shell and some livable finished areas.
What we give up to make the wives happy.
My ranch has been running on wind and solar for about three yers now. We have a 32 foot RV trailer with all the amenities, AC gas het, stove and have been trying to stay off the grid. Solar & wind powers two large 12 volt Batteries that provide lights, pumps TV and via an inverter, any 110V devices that draw less than 15 Amps.
All is backed up with a generator for the water heater AC and power tools for construction.
Two generators, five solar panels, three inverters and a 12V DC charger later, I am done with it. It is just too much trouble to keep all of those systems operating without a lot of attention to use, power consumption and mechanical failures. Plus, we burn 5 to 10 gallons of fuel a week.
So last week end we had the engineer from the local power company come out. Two poles and a small deposit,,,,$900.00. A meter drop loop $500.00,,,,A 200 AMP panel with sufficient breakers for now,,,, $350.00.
Not having to get up at Two in the morning to fill or fire the generator,,,,,PRICELESS.
We have finally started construction of the cabin. So I guess it will work out for the best.
The cabin started out as a 16' X 12' two story cozy abode for the week-end visits. It is now planned to be about 1200 square feet with a loft. Permanent residence.
It should take me a year to do the rough shell and some livable finished areas.
What we give up to make the wives happy.
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