Off-grid solar power is a solar energy solution designed to power a home independently from the main electricity grid. This system typically includes solar panels, batteries, an inverter, and occasionally a generator. While older systems may have been more complex, modern setups are streamlined for simplicity.
The initial cost of an off-grid solar system is higher than that of grid-tied systems. For an average Aussie family, a 10 kW off-grid solar setup might cost between $28,000 and $32,000 in 2024. Sizing the system to meet your household’s needs is straightforward but crucial.
Typically, you’d allocate 10 kWh per day for a single person, with an additional 5 kWh per day for each extra person. So, a three-person household would need about 20 kWh per day. Dividing this by 2 suggests a 10 kW solar system size to meet the energy demands. As a rule of thumb, start with a 5 kW setup for one person and add 2.5 kW for each additional household member. This sizing approach helps tailor the system to your specific needs.
In areas like Ballarat, where winters can be particularly harsh, it’s advisable to oversize your solar panel array. This ensures that even during the shorter, cloudier days, your system can generate enough power to minimise reliance on a generator.