So based off that solar pi part of last week 's episode, I think I 'm going to try something

[G+_Matthew Byrd]

So based off that solar pi part of last week's episode, I think I'm going to try something... Maybe get rid of my desktop computers and move to laptops with dedicated outlets powered by solar/charge controller/battery only. As in, having special outlets (possibly color coded) where I know that power is 100% coming from the PV and/or battery.

 

I'm in central FL so sun should be no issue. I think I could easily cover cost by selling the desktop stuff. Thoughts?

[G+_Cole Brodine]

It has been my experience that selling the desktop components will probably not cover the cost of a new laptop and definitely won't cover the cost of a solar system large enough to keep them running.  Costs aside, there is no reason it won't work. 

 

You may want to consider a grid tie system of some sort instead of a system with batteries.  It has been my experience that batteries are a headache that only requires maintenance.  Maybe you could leverage the laptop batteries somehow?

[G+_Matthew Byrd]

I already have the laptops so that is no big deal. I kind of wanted to make sure it was not on the grid so I didn't pay for the electrical usage from the power company. But that may change if I need too many batteries

[G+_Cole Brodine]

How many computers are you wanting to power?  I've been considering buying a system from http://www.wholesalesolar.com and installing it myself.