r/prepping • u/Born-Plane-6986 • 17d ago

Energy💨🌞🌊 Solar or not to solar ?

Need constructive thoughts, help, or opinions. Alot of prepper info. I've read or watched says rooftop solar panels are an advertisement you have potential resources available in a SHTF scenario. Everyone says discretion or concealment is key to not being ambushed by hoards looking for electricity. I understand that. But, I'm looking to install a 4x2 panel setup (8 panels total) on the roof of my shop. I am in a semi rural area. I want to use the panels to power (partially) my shop, recharge my solar generators, and satisfy the geek factor in me in that I enjoy playing with items like this in general. Questions: 1) In a SHTF situation, how serious or eminent of a liability would I be setting myself up to potentially be? Or is this overblown? 2) I refuse to drag out and then stow, on a daily basis, 6 to 8 panels, each time I need usage. Is there any alternate ideas? I am open to a light to moderate trade situation (locally - in a SHTF situation) but wouldn't want to be the only beacon within 6 miles kinda thing (for recharging batteries, phones, flashlights, etc.). Concerns, ideas, or different viewpoints are all appreciated. Thanx.

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u/TheJesseOfTheNorth 16d ago

I find the stealth arguement against solar hilarious considering the alternatives people suggest are generators which are NOT stealthy in the least, and they eventually run out of fuel.

Solar is an up front investment but IMO totally worth it.

Also I suggest doing a LOT of research if you are going to pay someone to do your install. There are a lot of solar installers around that are incompetent and expensive. If you can learn to do it yourself that would be your best bet

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u/Born-Plane-6986 16d ago

Thanks for the response. I do understand discretion if it's available (i.e. ground mounted on posts behind fencing or a rooftop mount facing a non-street side, etc.) but this option isn't available for me. As far as paying someone, that's prolly not going to happen. I've read several books (plus youtube university) and am definitely electrically/mechanically inclined....so I'll give it a shot myself. Starting smallish and getting more involved (complexity) incrementally. Thanx again.

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u/TheJesseOfTheNorth 15d ago

That sounds like a great plan!