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jochenww · Dec 25, 2011, 09:58 PM

What is most inexpensive in the long run, solar verses wind power?

tkrussell · Dec 26, 2011, 04:30 AM

Googling solar vs wind cost comparison found these among several:

How Does Wind Compare to Solar Power?

Residential Clean Energy: Solar vs. Wind | mapawatt

Cost Comparison of Residential Solar Vs. Wind Power | eHow.com

Best to get pricing on each type of system that will suit your unique needs, and what will work with the best reliability for your area.

stanfortyman · Dec 26, 2011, 06:31 AM

Off the grid completely? You had better not have very much need for electricity. There is nothing right now that will provide the same amount of power as "the grid".

I know some people want this feeling of doing something and not relying on the system and the man, and saving the universe, but you'd better be prepared to live like a pioneer.

If that's for you, I wish you nothing but good luck. NO WAY is that for me though.

jochenww · Dec 27, 2011, 10:10 AM

Thank you TK,

Pioneer-Life? I'm not sure. Let me give you my thoughts.

I got the whole idea, because we rented a Vacation House on the Big Island (HI). It was a 3BR house. The only real power user was washer/dryer, no AC and the Refrigerator (AC/DC/Propane), Stove/Oven (propane). He had a DC-Bank of 4 Batteries. We watched TV at night and using the PC/LT. There was never a power problem.

My plan is, to move to Mobile/Alabama and bye a fixer upper. All needed changes can be done while remodeling. I'm a single Person. My electrical use will be limited to ceiling fans in the summer and only in use , when in the room. Most lights will be saver lights 14W=60W, 12V halogen lights or LED lights in workspaces. All lights outside will be LED or Halogen. The only big items going to be TV PC Microwave and once a week Washer and Dryer.

After your information, I think a windmill is not an option. I suppose a bank of 10/130amp batteries is enough storage. How many panels (60W) do I need to keep the batteries fully charged under a good weather condition?
I'm not an Electrician as you realized, but I'm able to build my own solar panels and install them.

Jochen

tkrussell · Dec 27, 2011, 01:08 PM

Do your homework on whatever system you decide on.

I am no expert on any system, just be sure the system will operate in the weather you would have available, and size the system accordingly.