How to build a nice small cabin powered by solar panels. Lamar Alexander built this cute little 400 square foot cabin for approximately $2000, and powers it with a 570 watt solar and wind power system.
The whole system is very inexpensive, and the best part is he is mortgage free. Very cool little cabin. I’d be proud to build something like this myself, and call it home.
Basic information on solar energy
Solar energy is radiant light and heat from the Sun harnessed using a range of ever-evolving technologies such as solar heating, photovoltaics, solar thermal energy, solar architecture and artificial photosynthesis.
It is an important source of renewable energy and its technologies are broadly characterized as either passive solar or active solar depending on the way they capture and distribute solar energy or convert it into solar power.
Active solar techniques include the use of photovoltaic systems, concentrated solar power and solar water heating to harness the energy.
5 most frequent questions and answers about solar panels:
1. Are solar panels very expensive?
While the use of solar energy has been growing exponentially in the last twenty years, the prices of PV cells have been dropping. Currently, the price of an each PV cell is 99% lower than it was in 1976.
Moreover, because solar energy is such an environmentally friendly solution, many governments are offering grants and incentives for the installation of panels. Based on current average electricity costs, and assuming modest inflation of energy prices, the payback period should be between 8 and 10 years.
2. Do solar panels work in bad weather?
Solar PV panels can collect solar energy all throughout the year, whether it is spring, summer, autumn or even winter. However, the conversion of solar energy from solar panels is reduced when there is no direct sun exposure. This means that during cloudy days, solar panels work at 50% of their total capacity and on extremely cloudy days, this number may drop to 10%.
3. How much roof space do I need?
On average, you need 100 square feet of space to generate 1 kW of solar energy. Considering that a typical household uses around 40-50 kilowatts of electricity per day, it is safe to assume that to supply all of your electricity or heating needs with solar energy, you may need up to 500 square feet of roof space. However, already harnessing 20 kW a day from solar energy systems cuts the energy bill in half.
4. What is the average lifespan of a solar panel?
Solar panels installed today will produce a reasonable amount of solar energy for about 30 to 40 years, without the need of replacing them.
5. Can I store the electricity generated by my PV system?
No, the electricity generated is either used during the day in the house, or it is automatically exported back to your electricity provider who will pay you for this.
“…This cabin is 14×14 with a full loft and approximately 400 square feet of living space. Downstairs is kitchen, bathroom, dining and living area.
Upstairs is a large bedroom and office. There is enough room for 6 people to sleep comfortably. Power system is 580 watts solar electric and 400 watts wind power which powers a 12 volt fridge, lights, water pump, TV’s, laptop and many gadgets. Heat source can be propane or wood stove. Toilet is composting or a septic tank system…”
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