For people who need to bring power lines into their property an independent system could have a lower cost.  It depends on how much power you need and how far away the power lines are.

The technologies of wind, solar, storage, and power conversion have matured greatly over the last twenty years.  It is now quite reasonable, and common, to use wind and solar to provide electricity to areas not served by the power grid.

For an independent, off-grid, power system the efficiency of your lights and appliances is extremely important.  You should use the most efficient equipment you can find.

Wind and solar are intermittent resources, so some short-term storage is required to deliver reliable 24-hour “utility-grade” power.  Back-up engine generators (gas, propane, or diesel) are necessary for larger systems.

Off-grid power systems for a home typically cost from $5,000 to $50,000.

Combining two generating technologies, like wind and diesel, creates a “hybrid system.”

Wind and solar are often combined in a hybrid system because they reinforce each other on a daily and seasonal basis.  The wind often blows when the sun is not shining (night, storms, winter, etc.).  The sun often shines during periods with low wind (summer, wind lulls due to high-pressure systems, etc.).

Here at our web site you can design a remote power system, calculate its performance and economics … and you can even learn how to buy it directly and install it yourself.