Really useful book.

I have been building my own small scale solar system at home. I have 2 panels and a battery system for my gym / office which is based in a chalet at the end of my garden.

The system is an alternative to mains power. I have built my own control and switch system that will run low voltage lights, a small fan to run my solar furnace, and a 12v socket to enable me to run a 5v USB point to connect my laptop or charge a phone etc.

The project is part of a grander plan to include my greenhouse (built from recycled ((freecycled)) materials) that is going to provide an additional boost to the heat system with a duct connecting the two structures. Inside the greenhouse I am building two aquaponics units and several suspended growing towers.

The whole project will cost around £200 and should help to reduce energy and food bills ... watch this space to see the next update!