For our client, retiring to a quiet smallholding meant not only going off-grid but also creating a haven for their greatest passion: caring for animals, especially their beloved Toy-Pom dogs. Known affectionately as “17Poms,” they have dedicated themselves to adopting older and special-needs Toy-Poms, providing a loving home for those no longer suited for breeding.

Supporting this unique lifestyle, which includes both the main house and two tenant flats, required a robust, off-grid energy solution. Through several phases, we expanded the system to fully meet their needs, equipping the property with a 5kVA inverter, a 15kWh battery backup, and a 5.3kW PV array. This setup supplies reliable, uninterrupted power for both the household and the tenants, while ensuring their sanctuary for Toy-Poms remains secure and comfortable at all times. Now, they can enjoy retirement and focus on their passion for animal care, knowing that their home - and their furry family - is powered entirely by the sun.

Components:

• Victron MultiPlus-II 48/5000/70 Inverter/Charger
• Solar MD 7.4kWh Wall-Mount Battery with logger V2
• Solar MD 7.4 Rack battery
• Victron SmartSolar 150/35 MPPT with 6x 360W PV Modules
• Victron SmartSolar 150/45 MPPT with 8x 420W PV Modules
• Victron CCGX System Controller;
• Backup generator for the extreme days in winter;

Notes:

• Made adjustments on AC input to accommodate generator;
• Utilize AC-OUT2 to disconnect less essential loads in bad weather conditions;

This project was for a wonderfully compassionate and devout retired couple, whose warmth and kindness made working with them an absolute pleasure. While they’re not fully off-grid, they manage their energy use thoughtfully, manually disconnecting the AC input to rely on their system during load shedding or when grid reliability is low. With all household loads routed through the inverter, essential appliances are prioritized via AC-Out1, while non-essential items run on AC-Out2.

In Phase 1, we installed a 5kW inverter, a 3.7kWh battery, and six 415W PV panels, creating a solid foundation for dependable power. As their needs evolved, Phase 2 brought an additional 7.4kWh battery from the same manufacturer, enhancing their storage capacity and extending backup duration. For Phase 3, we sourced identical 415W panels to expand the PV array, maintaining a cohesive look and ensuring aesthetics remained consistent.

With a love for the outdoors, especially exploring in their 4x4 caravan, this phased, flexible setup allows them to enjoy peace of mind at home, knowing their energy needs are fully covered, no matter the circumstances. This harmonious energy solution perfectly complements their active, outdoor-loving lifestyle, providing resilience and reliability whenever they need it.

Components:

• Victron MultiPlusII 48/5000/70 Inverter/Charger;
• 2x Victron SmartSolar 150/35 MPPT each with 6x 415W PV panels;
• Solar MD 3.7kWh Lithium battery + Logger V2;
• Solar MD 7.4kWh Lithium battery;
• Victron Lynx DC busbar;
• Victron CerboGX + Touch50 System Controller;

Notes:

• Generator start/stop on AC2 27% disconnect Output2 and reconnect on 30%
• ESS enabled
• Node-RED script to manage connection to the grid to increase efficiency and dependence on the grid;