Reevis's Alternative Energy Systems
Solar energy
Our solar system has developed and grown over the years as we have learned what works well for us. We welcome visitors who wish to learn from our experiences or are just curious about what it takes to live off the grid. Please email us to make an appointment if you would like to visit to learn about our energy systems.
Solar Electricity
Our system includes seven solar panel arrays for the main power generation. These connect to a central deep cycle battery for storage and an inverter for supplying 110V AC to the community house and workshop.
The electricity is used for lighting the community house, supplying kitchen appliances (including a refrigerator and freezer) and our washing machine, and powering office equipment, including a computer, printer, and satellite modem. There is adequate power remaining for our workshop power tools and an occasional movie!
We also have a small solar panel that powers a well pump, used to help keep our irrigation tank full.
Solar hot water
Our solar hot water system supplies the shower house with ample hot water for showering during the summer. In winter, we supplement solar with a wood-burning furnace.
Wind
The two small wind generators atop the power house provide only a small amount of power.
Solar Cooking
Letting the sun do our cooking saves a lot of propane and reduces heat in the community house. With a little preparation and planning, we can have a tasty dish or meal ready at the end of the work day, with very little work or energy expended. And dishes that cook in the solar oven practically never burn!
Backup Power
For periods of high demand, a propane-fueled backup generator maintains charge in the batteries. We have not needed to use this generator since the solar panels were repaired two years ago.
