To all who are thinking of starting to purchase components for an off-grid system.

• Don’t piece meal your equipment together without consulting with a professional.
• Don’t fall for huge sales, where sale prices that are not really a sale.
• Don’t hesitate to look for Canadian approvals on the equipment. The CE cert is meaningless in North America.
• Don’t hesitate to ask the sales-people for their knowledge and background.
• Don’t believe in the claim that someone sells an all inclusive solar package.
• Don’t do your research on You-tube.
• Don’t buy cheap energy storage that may set your home on fire.

Do

• Talk to a knowledgeable electrician before you start.
• Ask your ESA inspector before finding out you may be on the wrong course.
• Get expert advice for the proper materials.
• Do design your off-grid system with expansion in mind.
• Do make sure you are dealing with a reputable person / company.
• Be aware that PV modules produce DC electricity that can be more dangerous than AC power.

Here is a link to the ESA website to show you all the acceptable certification marks.https://esasafe.com/electrical-products/recognized-certification-marks/