Off-Grid Solar Power - Victron Energy - Briggs & Stratton - VOLTAICO

Off-Grid Power
Made Simple

Work With The People, Prices and Equipment That Will Move Your Project Forward With Confidence

Joined by 500+ happy customers achieving their energy goals.

Solar installation California
★★★★★

This is just to thank you once again for all your help and offer a little follow-up. The system is installed and operating, and I thought you might like the pictures.
Jim Pearson – 14.5kW Flat Roof High Efficiency

From Idea to Reality
Go Off-Grid in Weeks
with Voltaico

Since 2011, we’ve helped hundreds of customers take control of their energy needs. Discover the benefits of working with our friendly and knowledgeable experts, and learn why they love our support.

Equipment Selection: Choosing the right equipment is crucial. We will help you navigate various options to find the perfect fit for your project.
System Sizing: We will design a system that meets your specific energy demands, ensuring optimal performance and avoiding unnecessary costs.
Installation and Performance: Our comprehensive resources and support ensure a seamless installation and address any performance concerns you may have.
Cost Transparency: We believe in upfront pricing. All our equipment prices are available online, so you can make informed decisions.

Solar on flat roof Utah
★★★★★

I am talking to a few friends to see if I can convince them to install solar, thanks for your help and support!
Jim Bryant – 7.2kW PV System On Flat Roof

Self Solar Installation Utah
★★★★★

I have finished my install. Thanks again for all the help on this project!
David Hale – 9.1kW Solar PV + Energy Storage

Equipment Selection
Offering The Most Dependable

Partnering with industry leaders like Victron Energy and Briggs & Stratton, we offer access to high-quality and dependable equipment. We understand the complexities of off-grid systems. Our experts will guide you through the process, ensuring you choose the most suitable equipment for your specific requirements.

Victron Energy Smart Battery
Briggs Stratton Logo

Cost Savings Through
Transparent Communication

We believe in clear communication. Our comprehensive resources explain each step of the process, including system structure, focused areas, and cost-saving alternatives.

Installation and Operation Support
From Start to Finish

Detailed manuals, comprehensive diagrams, and readily available phone support ensure a smooth installation process. We are also here to help you operate and monitor your system, both on-site and remotely.

Don’t Go It Alone on
Your Off-Grid Journey!

We understand the challenges of going off-grid, like equipment selection, system sizing, and installation concerns. At Voltaico, our off-grid experts are here to simplify the process from beginning to end.

Schedule a free consultation today and:
• Gain clarity: We’ll address your specific concerns throughout the design, installation, and operation phases of your project.
• Make informed decisions: Our experts will guide you through equipment selection and ensure your system is sized perfectly for your needs.
• Experience a smooth transition: Benefit from our clear instructions, detailed diagrams, and ongoing support to ensure a successful off-grid experience.

Your Off-Grid Journey Starts Here

Fill Out our Short Form and
Get Your Free Consultation Today!

* all fields are required

For Homepage

Go/Live/Travel Anywhere
Without The Grid

A Simple Guide to
Off-Grid Solar Systems

Thinking about going off-grid? Solar power can make it a reality! While off-grid systems involve several components, this guide breaks it down into easy steps.

Don’t settle for a one-size-fits-all solution! This guide focuses on systems sized for applications typically needing between 3,000 and 12,000 watts of solar power. The basic principles apply to smaller systems too, with some adjustments. For larger systems (over 12,000 watts), consider involving an engineer for more complex calculations or contact us for a free consultation.

Ready to start your off-grid journey? This guide will show you how to size your system and choose the right components to create a reliable off-grid solar system.

How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?

In the past, choosing the exact number of panels was crucial due to:
• Higher panel costs: Fewer panels meant lower upfront cost.
• Limited backup options: Generators weren’t as readily available.
• Less powerful controllers: Fewer panels could be connected to a single controller.
• Tricky battery monitoring: It was harder to track battery health.

Now, with more affordable panels, backup generators, and advanced controllers, a super precise calculation isn’t always necessary. Here are some simplified ways to estimate the number of panels you’ll need:
• Max Out Your Space: If you have limited space (RV, tiny home, etc.), use as many panels as possible that fit comfortably.
• Standard Setup (12-16 Panels): This is a good starting point for cabins or tiny homes with moderate power needs. This number also works well with most 60 Amp charge controllers.
• Multiples of 3, 4, and sometimes 5: For larger systems, consider using multiples of these numbers to optimize how panels are wired together (see table).
• Fuel Generator Backup: Consider using a generator as backup for high-demand days. This can significantly reduce your upfront system cost. Most generators work with the inverter’s automatic start feature.

Recommended Solar Panel Quantities for Single Charge Controller

For solar panels 400W+ and 60 Amps charge controllers, 150V/250 Volts

Panels per StringTotal PanelsString Configuration
3, 46, 9, 12, 15, 16, 24Ideal
Not Recommended7, 8, 10, 11, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23Avoid these configurations

After you decide on the number of solar panels, use Victron’s MPPT Sizing Tool to find the best charge controller(s) and how to wire your panels together (string configuration) for your system’s voltage.

Victron Energy Lithium Battery

Choosing Your Inverter

The inverter is like the brain of your system, so picking the right one is important. Here’s what to consider:
• Inverter Size: Match the inverter size to your peak power needs (highest amount of power used at once). Don’t overspend on a bigger inverter than you need.
• Input Voltage: The inverter’s input voltage needs to match your battery bank’s voltage (usually 12V, 24V, or 48V).
• Voltage Output: Choose a 120V inverter for most appliances. A 240V inverter is more complex and might not be necessary.
• Optional Features: Consider features like automatic generator start, remote monitoring, and low voltage disconnect.

SimpliPHI and Victron Energy are popular inverter brands that offer features like working with solar panels, generators, or even grid power.

Briggs Stratton Simpliphi ESS System

How About Batteries?

Healthy batteries are key to a well-functioning system. Here’s how to size your battery bank:
• 20-40% Extra Capacity: Aim for a battery bank that can store 20-40% more power than you use in an average day.
• Depth of Discharge (DOD): Batteries shouldn’t be completely drained. Use the DOD (usable battery capacity) in your calculations. Lithium batteries (DOD: 80%) can discharge more than Lead-Acid/AGM batteries (DOD: 50%).

Backup Generator Option

Consider using a backup generator instead of a larger battery bank, which can be expensive. Having a backup generator offers several advantages:
â—¦ Provides power during overcast days or high-demand periods.
â—¦ Automatically recharges batteries when low, extending battery life.
â—¦ Allows you to bypass the inverter and run appliances directly from the generator during maintenance.

We Can Help!

Voltaico has helped many customers with off-grid power needs. Once you have a basic idea of your system components, email us a draft of your design at solar@voltaico.com. We’ll review it, confirm equipment availability, and provide a quote for the complete system. We offer:
• Customer Support: Support throughout and after installation.
• Warranty and Service: We work with US-based manufacturers for easy warranty claims.
• Competitive Prices: We offer competitive pricing on complete systems.
• Clear Communication: We’ll keep you informed throughout the process.
• Simple Ordering: We make the ordering process as easy as possible.

Shopping Cart