Off-grid Solar

As an off-grid projact, we generate electricity through solar panels. We are not connected to the city's power grid, relying instead on solar panels generously donated by a company. These panels, which were not functioning properly for their original purpose, can now produce up to 4000 watts, or an average of 10 kWh per day. It's important for us to use energy wisely, as we cannot run multiple high-energy-consuming appliances simultaneously. In our kitchen, we use gas bottles as an alternative energy source. In the garden, we use wood stoves, and we have, of course, our pizza oven, which all run on maintenance wood.

We install as many applications as possible directly linked to a solar panel to limit the amount of batteries. They only run when there is enough sun! This concerns water circulation pumps, irrigation pumps, air pumps and air ventilation. During summer, this accounts for more than half of the energy use. The other half of the solar panels are connected to a 4 kW solar inverter and a battery pack of 15 kWh. We are looking to extend our solar project. If you have leftover material, the Kaskantine can find a good destination for it!

Energy is essential for most kitchen activities, such as baking, heating water, and cooling. Heating requires a lot of energy. For example, baking a loaf of bread in an electric oven of 2000 watts for one hour consumes 2 kWh. Therefore, we must carefully schedule energy usage to coincide with the optimal solar production period. We currently use additional gas and wood stoves because we cannot fully cook with our solar panels and battery capacity, but we plan to transition towards that. It's also important to note that our activities are limited during winter because of low solar power.

Climate Change:
This clean and renewable energy source reduces reliance on fossil fuels, which are major contributors to climate change.

SDG:
By developing our solar power project, we actively contribute to SDG 7.2 (Increase the percentage of renewable energy).

Community or Individual Action:

Moving away from fossil fuels is one of the most important things we can do, along with reducing energy consumption.

Installing Solar Panels: Consider installing solar panels on rooftops or in available spaces. This choice directly reduces your reliance on fossil fuels and lessens carbon emissions.
Explore Other Renewable Sources: Look into alternative renewable energy sources like wind or geothermal power. These technologies can be tailored to your location and reduce your home's carbon footprint.
Switch to Renewable Energy Providers: If proper installation isn't feasible, consider switching to energy providers prioritising renewable sources. This decision supports the growing demand for clean energy.
Influence Energy Sources: If you have sway over energy decisions at your workplace or in your community, advocate for renewable energy sources. This can have a broader impact beyond your own household.