Independent Energy System

This energy system has worked very well for us. We have free power for most of the year and run our propane generator occasionally as a supplement in the winter. Utility power is about a quarter mile away, if desired.

• This energy system generates 120/240 VAC to power standard household appliances, electronics, and powered shop tools, without utility power.
• 8,820 watt solar panel array (upgraded with new solar panels in 2021)
• 400 amp-hour 48-volt lithium-ion battery storage (19.2 kWh)
• 3,600 watt sine wave inverter (which is ideal for electronics) 
• 1,000 watt wind generator
• Dual-fuel backup generator (propane and gasoline)
• 1,000 gallon buried propane tank
• 120 VAC power is distributed to the garden and earth-sheltered greenhouse, and 120/240 VAC power goes to the shop
• Both wells are powered by 120 VAC, and one of the wells can be powered by its dedicated solar panels
• ​Shop has a generator input as an alternate power source if needed

Water System

The water system includes two wells drawing from different pristine sources and both taste very good. Both wells need no water softening.
Well in the garden:

• Draws water from 350 feet down at a maximum rate of 3 gallons per minute
• Static water level is 50 feet
• Pump, replaced in 2019, runs from 120 VAC or DC using its dedicated solar panels (no inverter needed)

Well near the creek:

• Draws water from 50 feet down at a maximum rate of 5 gallons per minute
• Static water level is 20 feet
• Pump runs from 120 VAC. It could also run from 24 VDC which could be easily supplied by dedicated solar panels (without an inverter) if so added.

​Water is pumped into a buried 3,000 gallon concrete cistern behind the home.
There are three frost-proof hydrants in the deer-fenced garden and one faucet in the earth-sheltered greenhouse. There is also a frost-proof hydrant near the well near the creek and another one near the shop.

Additional components:

• 1,000 gallon septic system

If you have questions or suggestions go here.