Make affordable small-scale investments in renewable energy and batteries so you are better prepared the next time the lights go out.

Ever wonder how to access power during a blackout? Virgin Islanders experience more frequent and longer outages than the rest of the United States. So we know you are ready for solutions that can fit both your budget and situation. Here we provide you with solutions that range from a few dollars to more significant capital investments.

You can have light with solar lanterns and light-bulbs. You can stay alert using a crank and solar charging radio. With a battery of various sizes, you can recharge mosquito zapper, access water from your cistern, or even keep your medications cool with a mini-fridge and wash your clothes with a portable washing machine. The possibilities are endless and you can power all this using sunshine or ocean breeze.

Off-grid devices to save your life

So How can I purchase these items?

• Major online retail stores

• Ship directly from the company

• or check out this list from Wirecutter about emergency preparedness

What Can I Power Using Batteries?

Quick note about car Batteries!

Car batteries are most suited to start up your car - they generate a lot of power and fast to start up your engine quickly. This means that charging by car should be limited to emergencies, but its best to invest in a deep-cycle or other battery type for prolonged use. If you do use the car battery, be sure to restart the car engine periodically (every 30-60 min) in order to recharge the battery.

How can I use a battery?

More about inverters!

An inverter allows you to access power using a battery to plug in your devices.

There are different types of inverters to choose from. The most affordable are square wave inverters; they work well with a variety of devices, but are generally not suited for sensitive electronic equipment. The more expensive option is pure sine wave inverters; they create an electric signal that is similar to a wall outlet and more suited for sensitive equipment.

How do I set up a Renewable Energy system?

Wiring Diagram for a Solar Photovoltaic System (Image source: Amazon.com). The system includes a solar panel, charge controller, battery and inverter for plugging in devices. You can either purchase each device separably or buy them together as a kit (ie. Goal Zero, Eco Flow, Simpli-Phi). Some solar generator kits are sold in the Virgin Islands and you can receive up to a 40% rebate from the VI Energy Office while certain rebate programs are running.

Solar or wind?

Solar panels are the simplest and cheapest way to generate energy from renewable sources in the VI. Small wind turbines can also work, but you’ll have to spend more time installing them.

How Much Power do I Use?

To find out more about the energy use of typical household devices check out this website. For tips on how to reduce energy and lower your electricity bill check out this awesome guide designed for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

Want to quickly calculate how much energy you use in your household?

Want an idea of what it would take to go off-the-grid using Solar+Batteries?

This information has been provided by the University of the Virgin Islands Caribbean Green Technology Center and the Virgin Islands Energy Office.

Disclaimer: Please make sure to properly read device or equipment user manuals before operating. Always exercise caution when using high voltage equipment and consult a professional installer with any questions or concerns. Any action you take upon the information on this guide is strictly at your own risk, and we will not be liable for any losses and damages in connection with the use of this guide.

Last updated: August 2020