sfw, I would recommend finding someone that is already living off-grid and with a similar power consumption to that which you require. Read this forum, or look over at energy-matters forum for more information on people that have DIY off-grid systems that have been operational for many years.
Once you have an idea of the components you need, you will be in a better position to talk to an installer and get an idea of the installation cost.
If you can DIY, and have no component failures, you will be better off financially by going completely off-grid. I've seen a lot of very bad information given out in online forums also, so if you don't have a decent background knowledge of off-grid systems and what is required it can be difficult to sift through information.
There are also a few that offer consistently quality information to people that ask questions. David that has responded in this thread is one of them. (no affiliation, i've just seen him consistently offer correct information).
As an indication of what you will be looking for and approx. prices:
Selectronics SPPro or Sunny Island inverter $7k
A/C coupled inverter $3k
Lithium Battery 400Ah $13k
Battery management $1k
Diesel Generator $6k
5kw solar panels $6k
Wiring / racking / enclosures / misc $2k
Labor (maybe 1 week) No idea, but don't skimp on this one, most of the systems I've seen installed by "professionals" around here don't meet Australian standards.
This gives you a basic idea of where your cash will go.
We have a similar system installed, and the only thing we can't do that we used to do in our old house is run our R/C air conditioner all night. (unless we start the generator).
Posted Sunday 24 Jan 2016 @ 1:51:04 am from IP
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