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Fun stuff. I've built several systems just like this one for camping, they let you keep things like iPads or laptops charged and they aren't noisy like running a generator.

Something that my wife discovered was that an igloo "lunchmate" cooler was perfect to hold the battery and charge controller. Makes it easy to carry. I recommend using Anderson Powerpole connectors (https://powerwerx.com/anderson-power-powerpole-sb-connectors) to make it easy to set up and tear down. I typically use one pair of colors for the connections to the battery, and another pair of colors for the panel to charge controller.



During Iraq/Afg conflict, US army started investing in solar systems because they realized every fuel (alot used for generators) convoy that doesn't have to make runs to outposts means less exposure to attacks by enemy. Solar systems can help lower fuel consumption for generators.

I heard fairly high percentage of US veterans back at home are more interested in solar systems because they saw the high cost of moving fuel around.

Ironic. We supposedly went there to secure our energy source and we learned solar system is a viable solution...


I think an argument could be made that, going there to secure our energy sources forced us to LEARN how to make a better, viable option.


Damn, that's some inside advice. Let me try it out and I'll post a follow-up! Thanks so much!!


+1 on the Powerpole connectors, I used them on a small solar system very similar to what's described in the article and they work great.




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