I just found out I can buy a decent 400W solar panel in the local hardware store for around 90€ these days.
Are there people around with experience in off-grid solar? There is quite some supply in cheap MPTT charge controllers on the internet. And I can't afford a 700€ power station. But I would be able to buy a few power tool batteries or one of the lead-acid batteries people put in their caravan. Are there projects building a power station myself? Is this even worth it?
meyotch@slrpnk.net 4 days ago
It can be more cost effective to build a power station on your own, BUT (that’s a big but) it can also easily become a costly boondoggle. So just the usual caveats about planning well before purchasing anything.
The best diy approach I have seen is the sort built on a hand truck such as from Harbor Freight (in the US, there must be a eurozone equivalent that sells inexpensive tools). There are many variations on this plan to be found on the webz.
The key is always matching the components, the controller, the battery and panel so they work well together.
My two cents.
hendrik@palaver.p3x.de 4 days ago
Sure. I was hoping someone already did the hard work and wrote some blog post with specific recommendations. Or findings and failures along the way. Maybe someone has, or I'll need to have a closer look the the abundance of components for this.