Issue #10

Hey Friendz,

Power is one of the biggest mysteries for people when thinking about going tiny—especially if they want to live off-grid. They wonder…

❝

How much do I need? What’s it going to cost? Will I still be able to make coffee and charge my phone?

Today, we’re going to break it all down. Whether you plan to be 100% off-grid or just want to cut your electric bill, this issue will help you understand what it takes to power your tiny home life.

But before we flip the switch, here is the…

🛠️ Tip of the Week

Figure out your power needs before buying anything.

Make a list of every appliance you plan to use—lights, fridge, laptop, water pump, etc.—and add up the wattage. This will guide your system size and help avoid over- or under-building.

If you’re done thinking about living sustainably, off-grid in a tiny home and your ready to step into a more peaceful way of life, we’re ready to invite you to come live in The Rio Grande Estates Tiny Home Community here in The Land of Enchantment, New Mexico. We offer studio, 1 and 2 bedroom container homes. Click HERE to learn more and apply.

⚡ Power Options for Tiny Homes

There are three main categories to think about when it comes to powering your tiny home:

☀️ 1. Solar Power (The Most Popular Off-Grid Option)

A good solar setup includes:

  • Solar panels

  • Charge controller

  • Battery bank (to store power)

  • Inverter (converts power for appliances)

✅ Pros: Clean, renewable, works well in most places
⚠️ Watch for: Upfront cost ($5,000–$15,000), and weather dependency

Pro tip: You don’t need to power everything. Many tiny dwellers use propane for cooking and water heating to reduce their solar load.

🔋 2. Battery Banks (Storing That Sunshine)

Most off-grid solar setups use lithium-ion batteries—they last longer and charge faster than lead-acid batteries.

Brands to check out:

  • Battle Born Batteries – reliable, U.S.-made, great for mobile homes

  • Renogy – budget-friendly and beginner-friendly kits

✅ Pros: Quiet, long lifespan
⚠️ Watch for: Needs protection from extreme heat or cold

🔌 3. Backup Generators (For Cloudy Days or High Loads)

Even with solar, many people keep a propane or gas generator on hand just in case.

  • Cost: $500–$3,000

  • Size depends on your energy needs

  • Quiet inverter generators are best for small spaces

✅ Pros: Backup peace of mind
⚠️ Watch for: Fuel storage and maintenance

⚡ Bonus: Plug-In Power (On-Grid Option)

If you're parking at an RV park or have access to a power pole, plugging into the grid is easy and often very affordable. You can still add solar later to reduce your bill or go hybrid.

Here’s to energizing the journey,

Your Friendz at Trendz

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