Chapter 1: The Benefits of Vertical Solar Panels

Vertical solar panels are not exclusively for remote cabins; they are effective on residential buildings as well. By installing these panels, one can significantly boost solar energy self-sufficiency during winter months, as they are better at capturing low-angle sunlight compared to traditional roof-mounted panels. Moreover, snow accumulation on these vertical structures is less of a concern.

As noted in a prior discussion, achieving solar self-sufficiency in modern single-family homes is possible, even when accounting for electric vehicles in temperate regions like Switzerland:

The first video, "Striving for Energy Self Sufficiency - One Step Closer to Being Off Grid," explores the journey towards energy independence and the technologies that facilitate it.

Section 1.1: My Energy Setup

My current energy system achieves approximately 70% self-sufficiency annually. The introduction of vertical solar panels is expected to elevate this figure to 80%. Here’s a brief overview of our home's energy setup:

• Constructed in 2012 with a focus on energy efficiency
• Equipped with a Drexel+Weiss Aerosmart X2 heating and ventilation system paired with a ground heat pump since inception, which keeps heating demands low (around 1.2 kW on a frigid winter day).
• Gradual additions to the system include:
  • 8 kWp east-west solar panels on the carport
  • 14 kWp east-west solar panels on the house
  • 12 kWh Fronius Solar Battery
  • Two Tesla Model 3 cars, each with a 75 kWh battery

A Loxone building control system manages high-energy devices (like cars and the washing machine), optimizing their usage based on solar energy availability and battery levels.

Subsection 1.1.1: Evaluating Self-Sufficiency

Since 2017, we’ve achieved consistent self-sufficiency levels above 70%, even with the addition of two electric vehicles. Analyzing our monthly consumption data, we observe that self-sufficiency reaches close to 100% from mid-February to mid-October, although fluctuations occur in February and October due to varying weather conditions.

The winter months, particularly from November to January, present the most significant challenges for solar energy production. As Europe prepares for potential energy crises, we also face difficulties during these months.

Section 1.2: The Challenge of Winter Energy Needs

While summer months pose minimal issues, winter's energy demands create a significant challenge. The following screenshots illustrate daily energy consumption in winter, highlighting reliance on grid power.

Chapter 2: Implementing Vertical Panels

To address the winter energy shortfall, one could simply add more roof panels; however, this does not resolve summer excess energy production issues. Therefore, I have decided to install vertical panels on the eastern and western facades of my home.

While southern-facing panels would yield the best results, the numerous windows on that facade provide natural light and winter heating benefits.

To estimate potential energy output from the vertical installations, one can utilize the European Commission’s Photovoltaic Geographical Information System. Below are the planned specifications for the eastern facade:

• 6 modules at 400 Wp each
• Slope: 90° (vertical installation)
• Azimuth: -68°

For the western facade, the specifications are identical:

• 6 modules at 400 Wp each
• Slope: 90° (vertical installation)
• Azimuth: +112°

Using the previously mentioned system, we can anticipate the additional energy generation from these vertical panels.

Adding these panels is projected to increase self-sufficiency by 10 percentage points annually, enabling two additional months of 100% self-sufficiency in March and October.

While this solution does not entirely eliminate winter energy challenges, it significantly improves the situation.

Looking ahead, I am also conducting wind measurements to potentially incorporate small-scale wind turbines into my energy strategy.

As a tech entrepreneur, reserve officer, and father, I aim to share practical insights on entrepreneurship and resilience in daily life. I invite you to subscribe to my weekly newsletter for valuable advice tailored for busy entrepreneurs.

The second video, "Solar Panel System Cost & Install | Step towards Self Sufficiency Off-Grid Living," offers insights into the financial and installation aspects of solar systems, guiding viewers on their journey to energy independence.