Like all solar energy systems, off-grid systems use solar panels to harness the sun’s energy for residential or commercial buildings. However, unlike more common grid-tied systems, they store some of ...

Having spent 30+ years in residential construction, contracting, remodeling, maintenance and home repair, Deane now contributes DIY, informational and financial content as a freelance writer and ...

We live in an exciting time with respect to electrical power, one in which it has never been easier to break free from mains electricity, and low-frequency AC power in general. A confluence of ...

Learn how to build a complete off-grid solar system with this detailed guide. We break down all essential components, including solar panels, inverters, batteries, and charge controllers, to help you ...

Are you tired of skyrocketing electricity bills and ready to take control of your energy independence? Solar power might be the answer, but should you go on grid or off grid? It's a big decision that ...

Welcome to our series answering reader questions and concerns about how to cut the utility company cord. I currently use wood to heat my off-grid home but would like to figure out my options for using ...

The ancient Greeks told stories about harnessing the power of fire. Today, home batteries help me accomplish that on a daily basis. Eric Mack has been a CNET contributor since 2011. Eric and his ...

The author recently installed a complex solar-battery system. Learn how solar inverter is connected to the grid and how each inverter functions when connected or not connected to the grid. Welcome to ...

The pros and cons of taking responsibility for your own energy and water aren't what I expected before making the move to living an off-grid lifestyle. Eric Mack has been a CNET contributor since 2011 ...

Exciting advancements in solar energy are encouraging more and more folks to jump on the sustainability bandwagon and look into solar panels. Before you do so, though, you’ll need to consider whether ...