1002days since
The Gates Open

Powering the camp

For a camp of 40 people with one stereo, and most lighting from LED christmas lights and CFLs, we found a system of three solar panels with a large battery system was more than adequate.

Numerous vehicles in camp are powered by biodiesel, and the largest vehicles we use (the box truck) are driven the shortest distances (from the storage unit in Fernley only).

The camp’s sole power source is a 570W off-grid solar array w/ 450aH of battery storage. Tools, stereos, parties, lights, and everything else we do is powered by this robust system. All lights are CFLs or LEDs, and even our camp stereo we built from highly efficient automotive sound gear, using only 120W to blare our favorite music.

There is no generator backup necessary.

Any battery-powered devices brought for individual’s use are encouraged to be rechargeable, and are charged off the solar power grid.

Component Details:

  • 3 Evergreen 190W Solar Panels
  • 4 Deka GC-15 225aH, 6V batteries (flooded type)
  • 1 Outback MX60 charge controller
  • 1 Magnum MMS 1000W sine-wave inverter w/ charger
  • Remote for Magnum inverter, including battery state-of-charge
The batteries are connected in two parallel strings of two batteries, making a 450aH, 12V bank. The solar panels are connected in series and run directly to the MX60 charge controller. The charge controller monitors battery charge during the day, and puts as much energy into the batteries as it is able. When power is needed, the Magnum converts the 12V DC to 120V AC power. The inverter has a 1000W rating, suitable for running all sorts of appliances. The 2000W 5-minute surge rating allows power tools to be started and run successfully. Sine-wave inverters (as opposed to modified-sine wave inverters, commonly found at department stores) are better suited to running electronics like sewing machines and battery chargers.

The solar array spent approximately 2 weeks at the event in 2008, being brought out by members of our camp volunteering early. The system ran continuously the entire time, without malfunction or problem, and ran all the comforts of life at our camp, including CFL and LED lights, sewing machines, power tools, battery chargers, hair clippers, a blaring stereo, an air compressor, a vacuum, and more! During the rest of the year, the equipment is used for local events, powering educational displays, and other activities, ensuring that it doesn't lay idle.