Archives July 2025

Solar energy and battery storage are increasingly dominating the growth of U.S. electricity generation, signaling a significant shift in how the nation powers homes and businesses. New data shows that, in recent years, most of the new capacity added to the grid has come from solar installations, with battery storage closely following as a critical companion technology, helping to ensure a steady supply of power when the sun isn’t shining.

This surge is being driven by federal incentives, declining costs for solar panels and batteries, and mounting pressure to transition from fossil fuels to renewable sources due to climate concerns. As utilities continue replacing aging coal and gas plants, solar and battery projects are expected to play a central role in meeting America’s growing energy demands while aiming for a cleaner, more resilient grid.

Read the original Arizona solar power article.

Living off-grid on a boat presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to securing a reliable source of fresh water. One couple, who has made a home on the sea, detailed how they produce potable water using a desalinator powered by solar energy. This eco-friendly setup allows them to convert seawater into clean drinking water while maintaining a sustainable lifestyle far from traditional infrastructure.

Their system includes solar panels that charge a battery bank, which then powers the desalination process. The couple emphasized the importance of water conservation and regular maintenance to keep their off-grid life efficient and comfortable. With careful planning and resource management, they’ve created a self-sufficient environment that supports prolonged life at sea.

Read more about Off-Grid Water.

Solar energy and battery storage are emerging as the leaders in new electricity generation in the United States, according to a recent industry analysis. As utility companies increasingly invest in solar panels and large-scale battery projects, these clean technologies are outpacing natural gas and other traditional power sources for the first time. The report highlights how cost efficiencies and federal incentives are driving the growth of solar and battery installations, which are quickly reshaping the American energy landscape.

This rapid expansion comes as state policies and corporate commitments push utilities toward cleaner energy. While challenges such as grid integration and project permitting remain, the outlook for renewable power is strong. Analysts expect solar and battery storage to make up the majority of new capacity additions over the coming years, signaling a fundamental shift in how the nation generates and stores electricity.

Read the original Arizona solar power article.

Living full-time on a boat comes with unique challenges, one of which is securing a reliable source of freshwater. For many off-grid boat dwellers, a watermaker is an essential piece of equipment. These devices use a process called reverse osmosis to convert seawater into drinkable water, removing salt and impurities. Powered by solar energy and supported by onboard filtration systems, watermakers allow boaters to stay at sea for extended periods without needing to refill from land-based sources.

In addition to using watermakers, efficient water conservation methods are key to sustainable living on the water. Many boaters collect rainwater, utilize low-flow faucets, and repurpose greywater where safe and legal. Daily routines are adapted to minimize usage without sacrificing comfort. Living off-grid requires thoughtful planning and resourcefulness, but advances in marine technology and eco-conscious practices have made it more accessible than ever.

Read more about Off-Grid Water.

A newly unveiled camper van designed for off-grid family adventures is making waves with its luxury features and comfort-focused setup. This vehicle offers a fully equipped mobile home experience, featuring a spacious interior, a large bed, a functional kitchen, and a bathroom setup that includes a shower and toilet. Solar panels and ample battery storage allow it to operate independently of the grid for extended periods, while thoughtful storage solutions maximize space for families on the go.

Designed with versatility in mind, the camper provides all-season capabilities, making it suitable for a variety of environments. Its modern aesthetic pairs with practical upgrades like a diesel heater and water filtration system to ensure convenience and comfort. Whether parked in a remote forest or overlooking a mountain range, this van brings the comforts of home to the great outdoors.

Read more about Off-Grid Water.

Recent reports indicate that solar and wind power have become less expensive to produce than electricity from fossil fuels in many regions, thanks to technological advancements and growing investments in renewable energy. Despite the falling production costs for solar and wind energy, consumers may not immediately see lower bills. Experts warn that other factors—such as grid infrastructure, transmission costs, and long-term contracts with traditional energy providers—play a significant role in determining what people pay for electricity.

Even as renewables take a larger share of the energy mix, challenges in energy storage and distribution can prevent these cost savings from reaching customers. Additionally, existing policies and regulatory frameworks may delay or limit the impact of lower renewable energy costs on monthly utility bills. As a result, while the shift to cheaper solar and wind energy marks significant progress, experts say it could take time before households directly benefit from these lower generation costs.

Read the original Arizona solar power article.

An off-grid homeowner has captured attention for an unconventional yet highly efficient water collection system built entirely from materials available at a local hardware store. Located in the high desert, where rainfall is scarce, this innovative system not only collects rainwater but also features a design optimized for water retention and filtration. The homeowner’s self-sufficient approach highlights how sustainable living is possible without relying on traditional utilities.

This DIY setup includes strategically placed gutter systems, storage tanks, and a natural filtration process using gravel and charcoal layers. The homeowner credits the system’s effectiveness to careful planning and adaptability to local climate conditions. This water-saving strategy serves as inspiration for anyone looking to reduce reliance on grid systems while embracing environmentally conscious living.

Read more about Off-Grid Water.

According to new data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), solar and wind power together accounted for a significant portion of the country’s electricity generation in May 2025. Solar energy contributed 7.3% of the total electricity mix, marking an all-time monthly record for the U.S., while wind power made up 12% during the same period. These renewable sources continued to outpace coal, underscoring a major shift in the nation’s energy landscape as utilities and consumers increasingly prioritize clean energy options.

The EIA reports that this growth is due partly to seasonal factors—such as longer daylight hours benefiting solar output—as well as the ongoing addition of new renewable energy projects nationwide. These trends suggest that solar and wind’s role in America’s power grid will keep expanding, potentially breaking even more records in the near future.

Read the original Arizona solar power article.

Canadian designer Thom Fougere has introduced a sleek and sustainable solution for outdoor relaxation with his Goodland wood-fired hot tub. Crafted from durable marine-grade aluminum and lined with western red cedar, the minimalist tub offers a modern take on the traditional soaking experience. It eliminates the need for electricity or plumbing by using an external aluminum firebox that heats water directly through a thermosiphon circulation system—ideal for off-grid enthusiasts seeking both comfort and environmental consciousness.

In addition to its functionality, the tub’s design emphasizes simplicity and natural materials, making it a beautiful and enduring centerpiece for backyards or remote retreats. The compact 35-inch square footprint seats two adults comfortably, and its modular components make for easy assembly and transportation. Fougere’s design aligns luxury with sustainability, offering a refined way to enjoy the outdoors without compromising on style or performance.

Read more about Off-Grid Water.

According to a new report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), solar and wind energy sources in the United States are on track to reach a significant milestone by May 2025. Renewable energy installations, particularly solar and wind, are projected to generate more electricity than coal for the first time on a monthly basis. This shift marks a major transition in the nation’s energy mix, driven by rapid investments in new clean energy projects and older coal plants being phased out.

The EIA notes that soaring solar installation rates and growth in wind capacity across several states, including Arizona, are the primary factors for this change. Utilities and developers continue to pour resources into renewables, with Arizona standing out as a leading state for solar energy expansion. As a result, the electricity grid is expected to see continued declines in coal usage, further powering the country’s shift toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

Read the original Arizona solar power article.