We want to go totally "off grid" with solar power in NM. Where is the best place to start?
Question:
Answer:
Determine the amount of wattage you'll need. Then size and cost enough solar panels, batteries and electronics to bring it all together. I used a 12V electrical system and gas (propane tank) appliances. The "house" used passive solar for heat and was initially built with energy conservation in mind (insulation, glass, etc.) If I had it to do all over again, I'd go 120-240 volt all electric. The batteries, rectifiers, etc are so much better now. Was fairly expensive at the time but we were able to sell back some power and received federal tax incentives. All in the early 80's northern California 700 square feet. The house still stands but has had additions added and uses a lot of "grid" electricity. Spent a ton of time in the library researching before we started. Good luck.
Check with your state. They are very energy concious up there and there may be state grants available. You need to reduce your electric load in the house as much as possible and integrate the heating as well.
Research well, determine the volt and amp usage you will need and build a battery backup with more than ample power.
You may want to consider wind as an addtional power source and they have very small effective wind turbines for residential use, provided you have sufficient wind and land to put them up.
None of this is cheap, but the payback is that you will not have rising energy costs.
More Questions & Answers...