Cut energy costs by switching to solar—our get-started kit will get you off the grid

Our editorial team independently selects these products. If you choose to buy any, we may earn a commission that helps fund our content. Learn more.

If you’re a cottager, you know that keeping your property running can be expensive. Solar power is a great way to reduce your energy costs, and there are several ways cottagers can switch to solar.

Not only is solar power the fastest-growing energy source, its efficiency has increased 20 to 25 per cent in just the last decade. In the same period of time, the price has reduced by 80 per cent. More solar products are released to the market each year in the form of watches, water heaters, and more.

Solar panels

Solar panels are a great way to generate your own power. They are made up of photovoltaic (PV) cells, which convert sunlight into electricity. They can be installed on your roof or in your yard, and they can be used to power your entire cottage. It’s worth noting that the efficiency of solar panels is always improving.

There are a few things cottagers need to keep in mind when switching to solar. First, you’ll need to install solar panels on your property. Solar panels can be installed on your roof or in your yard. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find the right ones for your needs.

Once you have solar panels installed, you’ll need to connect them to an inverter. The inverter converts the electricity from the solar panels into a form that can be used in your home. You’ll also need to connect the solar panels to the electrical grid. This allows you to sell any excess electricity you generate back to the utility company.

Consider these factors before investing in solar panels:

The size of your cottage
The type of solar panels that fit your property
Tax credits and rebates that are available

The average solar panel payback period in Canada is about 8–16 years, depending on which province you live in.

Solar-powered generators

Solar generators are a type of system that uses a battery to store energy. They are perfect for cottagers who want to generate their own energy, but don’t want to install solar panels. Solar-powered generators can be used to power your entire cottage, or you can use them to charge batteries.

Solar-powered generators are useful for a variety of reasons, including:

Reducing your dependence on the grid
Providing back-up power in case of emergencies
Charging your electronic devices or kitchen appliances, such as your fridge

Photo by Amazon

generator

BLUETTI Portable Power Station

Buy from Amazon

$1999

Photo by Amazon

generator

Goal Zero Yeti 1500X Portable Power Station

Buy from Amazon

$2799

generator

EF ECOFLOW Delta Pro Solar Generator

Buy from Amazon

$4999

Portable solar panels

A portable solar panel can be moved from one place to another. It is ideal for people who want to generate their own power but don’t want to install solar panels on their roofs.

Portable solar panels are foldable and easy to transport, and they can be used to power your gadgets and appliances while you’re camping or at the cottage.