Solar Resources & Guides
Helpful guides, neutral references, and quick answers for homeowners, RV owners, and anyone sizing a system. Start with the section that matches your question, then reach out if you want help applying it to your property.
Quick links
Jump straight to the section you need and keep the rest of the hub as a reference.
Buyer’s Guides
Start with one comparison that clears up the biggest decision, then branch into deeper topics as needed.
PV String Calculator: Cold-Weather Solar Panel Count
Estimate the maximum panels in one series string by correcting panel Voc for cold weather and comparing it against your inverter or MPPT voltage limit.
LFP vs. NMC: Choosing the Right Lithium Battery
This is the best starting point if battery chemistry is your biggest decision and you want a neutral overview of cost, lifespan, and reliability.
LFP vs Lead-Acid: Which Battery Is Better for Off-Grid Storage?
Use this comparison when you are choosing between lithium and lead-acid for off-grid homes, cabins, and daily-cycle storage systems.
FAQs & Basics
If you are still learning the basics, start with the question that matters most right now.
Off-Grid Solar FAQ
Quick answers for homeowners who want to know what full independence looks like, how storage is sized, and what matters most in winter.
RV & Mobile Solar FAQ
Helpful basics for mobile systems, charging, and sizing when power needs move with you.
Well Backup FAQ
A quick primer on keeping well pumps running when the grid goes down.
External Resources
Trusted references for solar planning, battery storage, incentives, calculator tools, and utility customer-generation rules when you want a neutral place to verify the details.
DOE: Homeowner’s Guide to Solar
A practical federal overview of how solar works, what to expect, and where to start.
DOE: Planning a Home Solar Electric System
A step-by-step homeowner planning guide covering energy use, solar potential, system options, bids, incentives, and utility coordination.
DOE: Planning for Home Renewable Energy Systems
A useful reference for comparing grid-connected and stand-alone systems before choosing solar, batteries, or other renewable options.
DOE: Residential Renewable Energy
A broad Energy Saver overview of renewable energy options for homes, including solar electricity and related planning topics.
DOE: Battery Storage for Solar Energy Systems
A customer-friendly explanation of why homeowners pair batteries with solar, especially for backup power, rate protection, and energy self-sufficiency.
Idaho Power: Customer Generation FAQ
A utility reference for Idaho customers reviewing on-site solar, net billing, export credits, and interconnection requirements.
DSIRE: Solar Incentives Database
A reliable place to look for incentives, rebates, and policy details that may affect your project.
PVWatts: Solar Calculator
A useful calculator for rough production estimates and early-stage sizing conversations.