BlackoutProof Resources

Part 1 – America’s Coming Blackouts Will Be Catastrophic

View the video for Part 1 here

Your Action Items:

  • Use the Backup Power Tool to see which type of system is best for you
  • Come back for Part 2!

Resources

Part 2 – Choosing the Right Solar Setup: Grid, Hybrid, or Off-Grid?

View the video for Part 2 here

Your Action Items:

  1. Locate your power bills for the past year, find the one with the highest usage, and divide the kWh by the number of days in that month (EXAMPLE: 600 kWh for December – 600 kWh / 31 days = 19.35 kWh/day on average)
  2. Purchase & install a home power monitor right away (so you can collect data ASAP and be able to use it when sizing your system)
  3. Call your utility company to inquire about the process and requirements for setting up a backup solar power system (see download below for sample questions)
  4. Call your local government electrical authority (electrical inspector) to inquire about the process and requirements for setting up a backup solar power system (see download below for sample questions)

Resources:

Part 3

View the video for Part 3 here

Your Action Items:

  1. Locate your power bills for the past year, find the one with the highest usage, and divide the kWh by the number of days in that month (EXAMPLE: 600 kWh for December – 600 kWh / 31 days = 19.35 kWh/day on average)
  2. Purchase & install a home power monitor right away (so you can collect data ASAP and be able to use it when sizing your system)
  3. Call your utility company to inquire about the process and requirements for setting up a backup solar power system (see download below for sample questions)
  4. Call your local government electrical authority (electrical inspector) to inquire about the process and requirements for setting up a backup solar power system (see download below for sample questions)

Resources:

  • BUY: Emporia Vue 3 Home Power Monitor (the best way to track power usage in preparation for a system design)
  • Recommended Inverter: Midnite Power All In One (the inverter we personally use. It is well built and designed with the off grid user in mind, even if you are on grid now and want to sell back power or stay connected)
  • Recommended Batteries: Midnite Power PowerFlo-5 or PowerFlo-16 (we use the PowerFlo-5 as it’s initial cost is lower per kWh and lasts 6,000 cycles. But the PF-16 is rated to last 8,000 cycles and has a built in heater for cold temps, and it’s lifetime cost of usage works out lower even though it costs more up-front. Also, when paired with Midnite’s All In One inverter, it forms a UL-9540 listed Energy Storage System which helps it inspection even easier)
  • Recommended Solar Panels: Canadian Solar 445 watt (this is just an example of a good solid economical solar panel. Other good brands are REC, Longi, and more)
  • Recommended Solar Mounts:
    • MT Solar (better for locations with lots of snow requiring the array to be higher, or installs in rough uneven terrain)
    • Sinclair Designs Sky Rack 2.0 (better for large arrays in milder climates, due to lower cost and shorter installation height)
  • Recommended Generator:

Part 4

View the video for Part 4 here

Your Action Items:

  1. Install an Emporia Vue 3 and track your power usage or use your power bill
  2. Perform the shade assessment as described in the video
  3. Use the calculator to determine the size of your solar array and battery bank
  4. If you have the budget for a full system and need personal help with your design, schedule a 30 min consult with Nick to discuss it.

Resources:

Part 5

View the video for Part 5 here

Your Action Items:

  1. Preferably, do a custom sizing of your system (see video 4 above)
  2. If not, identify which power usage (5, 10, or 20 kWh) and location (AZ, MO, NC, NH, MI, WA) fits you best to get a rough idea of the range in expense for the major components

Resources:

Part 6

View the video for Part 6 here

Your Action Items:

  1. Use the Backup Power Tool to see which type of system is best for you
  2. Decide whether to do the install yourself (DIY) or hire a professional
  3. Check out the installer directory below and make a list of the potential options in your area that are listed as small installations with battery backup.
  4. Review the website of each one on that list, looking for ones that call out off grid or backup systems (not just grid tied solar)
  5. Contact the ones that remain on your list, using the call script below. Be sure to ask for references.
  6. Once you’ve settled on one, nail them down and get on their calendar ASAP.
  7. Coordinate with them on starting the permitting process with your local AHJ and/or utility

Resources: