Power Independence Project
Power Independence Project

DIY Home Power: Start With the Goal

Lower bills, outage backup, portability, and off-grid independence are different problems. Pick the goal before picking the technology.

“DIY home power” covers several different goals. Define the goal first; otherwise comparisons become meaningless.

Goal 1: lower bills

Begin with usage measurement, efficiency and rate-plan understanding. Generation comes after you know the load.

Goal 2: outage backup

List essential circuits/appliances, starting watts, running watts and desired runtime. Then evaluate batteries, portable power stations or generators.

Goal 3: off-grid independence

This is a system design problem involving load reduction, generation, storage, seasonal conditions, controls and backup.

Goal 4: experimentation

Experimental energy projects can be educational, but they should not be confused with certified household backup equipment or connected to home wiring without qualified guidance.

Related: home energy independence, lowering electric bills, and Energy Revolution alternatives.