An octogenarian who had to drive more than four hours into the woods and ride his rowboat (or his snowmobile) to access his chalet managed all the energy needs of his passive house using an autonomous system.
“Hydro will never come here, no power, absolutely nothing,” said Michel Dudemaine, a resident of Joliette, owner of a chalet in the woods, in the La Tuque sector. .
While his oven and fridge have always run on propane since buying his cottage in 2011, Michel Dudemaine has pumps and water barrels for his water needs. However, he took it to another level in 2012 by buying a tower (like a tower with antennas before cable) to install next to his chalet.
He then placed two 4-by-6-foot photovoltaic solar panels on top of the tower so he could adjust and rotate them depending on the day. His purchase kit also includes 4 12 volt batteries connected in series and an inverter. Everything cost him about $7,000.
“I met a solar panel seller, I explained to him my needs, particularly the voltage,” explained Mr. Dudemaine us. He analyzed that and made a plan for me to connect and install the system. “
The two photovoltaic solar panels measuring 4 feet by 6 feet on top of the tower next to Michel Dudemaine’s chalet. Photo provided by Bobby Dudemaine
Black ice
However, a major problem arose two years ago due to icy conditions, when the batteries failed because the panels were covered in ice.
“We bought four batteries (about $800), but we didn’t spend another penny on them,” added Mr. Dudemaine, who was very satisfied with his system.
“And when we go in the winter I put the panels at about 90 degrees to make sure that there is no snow and ice left,” added Mr. Dudemaine, while it can be very cold in that sector.
Mr. Dudemaine and his family members can sometimes stay in the chalet for a month, especially during the hunting season. “When the chalet is properly heated, we will turn off the propane heating and heat it with wood,” added Mr. Dudemaine. The chalet is well insulated, no problems. ”
Energy sources:
- propane for oven and refrigerator
- 2 solar panels
- former pumps and water barrels
- FUEL
