Off-Grid Solar Panel Power for Microgreens Production by Tom

Learn to be more self-sufficient and start buuilding your own solar energy system today. Harnesssing your energy is a challenging and rewarding project! 

I’ll guide you through the steps to design and build a solar power system specifically tailored for growing microgreens so that you have a solid base and can easiliy start building yours asap!

 Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience with solar energy, this simple guide will help you create a sustainable solution to power your microgreen setup.

1. Clarify you Goals

• Purpose: Decide if your system will power grow lights, fans, an irrigation system, or other equipment needed for microgreens.

• Energy Needs: Calculate daily energy consumption (kWh/day) based on the requirements of your microgreen setup. Consider factors like the wattage of grow lights and their daily usage. Keep in mind that your battery power should be able to store two days of your daily energy needs.

• Budget: Set a budget for components, installation, and potential maintenance. I will provide you with various links where you can find cost efficient quality parts.

2. Assess Your Location

• Sunlight Availability: Roofs are usually the best option but you can also build your own frame with a seasonal tilt (youtube video link). You can also use tools like Google Project Sunroof or PVGIS to estimate the solar potential in your area.

• Shading: Ensure there are no obstructions like trees or buildings blocking sunlight during peak hours. If there is partial shading throughout the day consider parallel connection (see info on series vs parallel connections for more info).

• Installation Space: Measure your roof, wall, or ground area to determine how many panels you can fit. For microgreens, even a small system can suffice.

3. Select Components

• Solar Panels:

  • Choose panels based on efficiency, wattage, and cost.

  • Options include monocrystalline (high efficiency), polycrystalline (cost-effective), or EFTE panels.  I started with EFTE which are flexible and light weight panels that made it manageable for myself to install but the trade-off was the shelf-life. Consider monocrystalline solar panels as they are the most efficient in energy conversation and last for decades; the tradeoff being their larger size and weight (ie you will need extra help).

• Inverter:

  • Converts DC to AC electricity. 

  • Ensure that your inverter matches your battery voltage (series  connection will increase your voltage to 24v & parallel will keep your voltage at 12v)

• Batteries:

  • For off-grid or backup systems, select lithium-ion, AGM, or lead-acid batteries.

  • I recommend AGM to start as you are able to use more of their capacity and last longer than lead-acid. If you're certain about the longetivity of your site then I would invest in a lithium-ion (also known as LifePO4) batteries from the start

• Charge Controller:

  • Prevents overcharging & discharging of batteries.

  • acts like the voltage regulator
  • Improves efficiency with MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) system
  • Protect against backflow
  • Records data and has options to display and download it

• Mounting System:

  • Roof-mounted or ground-mounted racking systems.

• Cables and Connectors:

  • Use weather-resistant and appropriately sized cables.

4. System Sizing

• Calculate Solar Array Size:

  • Divide daily energy use (kWh) by average sunlight hours in your area to determine the total wattage needed.

• Determine Battery Capacity :

  • Calculate based on energy needs and desired backup duration.

• Inverter Rating:

  • Should match or exceed the peak power demand of your system.

5. Design the System

• Create a wiring diagram showing how panels, inverters, batteries, and loads will connect.

• Plan safety features like circuit breakers, fuses, and disconnect switches.

6. Assemble the System

• Mount Panels:

  • Install racking systems securely to roofs or ground.

  • Position panels to maximize sunlight (e.g., south-facing and tilted at your latitude angle).

• Connect Wiring:

  • Use MC4 connectors to link panels.

  • Connect the panels to the inverter and batteries (if used).

• Install Inverter:

  • Mount the inverter close to the main electrical panel or battery bank.

• Ground the System:

  • Proper grounding ensures safety and reduces lightning risks.

7. Test and Commission the System

• Electrical Testing:

  • Check for proper voltage, current, and polarity.

  • Ensure all connections are secure.

• System Monitoring:

  • Install monitoring software or hardware to track energy production and usage.

• Safety Check:

  • Verify all circuit breakers, fuses, and disconnects are functioning properly.

8. Maintain the System

• Clean Panels:

  • Remove dirt and debris regularly to maintain efficiency.

• Inspect Components:

  • Check wiring, connections, and the inverter periodically.

• Monitor Performance:

  • Use system monitoring tools to identify issues early.

Tips for Success

• Start small and scale up as you gain experience.

• Follow local regulations and obtain permits if required.

• Consult professionals if unsure about electrical work (Do not bother with Pitten Specialist - waste of time in NL)

Building a solar energy system to power your microgreens setup is a fulfilling project that saves money and supports sustainable farming practices. Consider adding the powered by solar to your microgreens packaging!

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to harnessing the power of the sun for your indoor microgreens farm!

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

Microgreens and Solar Energy: A Sustainability Dilemma

Sustainability often comes with costs—financial, logistical, and sometimes even social. In the world of microgreens, solar energy can seem like an obvious solution for eco-conscious growers. However, the reality is that many avoid it due to its higher upfront investment and longer payback period. Despite being a cleaner energy source, solar often loses out to conventional methods because market forces prioritize short-term profit over long-term planetary health.

This creates a challenging landscape for those starting their microgreens journey. It’s important to acknowledge that going solar won’t immediately increase margins or sales—it’s an investment in something greater: a healthier planet and a future we can be proud of.

We need to give credit to those who take this bold step. These individuals and businesses are paving the way, shouldering the burden of higher costs to set an example for the rest of us. By supporting them, we collectively encourage a shift toward sustainability.

If you’re thinking about solar energy for your microgreens operation, know that it’s not the easiest path—but it’s the right one. Change starts with bold decisions, and every step forward matters.