Though I am now retired, I still like solving technical challenges. One such challenge, in recent times was setting up a small-scale independent (off-grid) 12-volt solar powered system. This solar system only had one panel and one leisure battery, and it wasn’t much use for power intensive applications, but it was useful for LED lighting, powering a radio or a sound system, charging items like my phone, iPad and laptop computer. I also set up a 12-volt water pump that was used in conjunction with a water tank where we kept two shubunkins (pet fishes). There was also a mains 240-volt inverter that was handy for short bursts with mains power tools, etc.
I like the idea of being off grid. And apart from the setup costs, the sunshine generated electricity is free. I like free. If you fancy doing something similar, there’s a great book called “Do It Yourself 12 Volt Solar Power” by Michel Daniek. Also, it’s worth mentioning that since the systems are 12 Volt, a lot of the required parts can be sourced from auto parts traders; for things like fuses, etc.
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