Micro Power Systems
Sized for Caravans, Sheds & Tiny Homes
If you have a small cabin, shed, or tiny home in regional Victoria or anywhere off the grid, a micro off-grid solar system can provide clean, reliable electricity without the need for a noisy generator or costly grid connection. These compact systems are ideal for powering essential appliances, such as lights, a small fridge, fans, phone charging, or a water pump — especially for weekend stays or low-usage dwellings.
What Is a Micro Off-Grid System?
A micro off-grid power system is a compact, self-contained energy solution designed to supply a small amount of electricity to a transportable vehicle, such as a caravan or houseboat, or to a small shed, cabin, or tiny home.
It typically includes:
A small 2 to 6 panel solar array (800 W to 2.6 kW)
A compact inverter-charger or all-in-one inverter
One or two lithium battery modules providing 5 to 10 kWh capacity
Optional generator input for backup power
How Much Does a Micro Off-Grid System Cost?
Small off-grid systems, designed for cabins, caravans, or tiny homes, are the most affordable, typically ranging from $8,000 to $20,000. These compact systems include a 1 to 3kW solar array, a 5 to 10kWh lithium battery, and a 3 to 5kW inverter. However, micro systems with only one battery can cost as little as $5900.
Costs will vary depending on whether the solar panels are roof- or ground-mounted, as well as the distance between the solar array and the inverter. Also, whether the system is mounted inside a weather-rated enclosure. For cabins located in cold climates or with higher winter usage, the battery and solar capacity may need to be upsized accordingly.
System Sizing Considerations
The most important factor in designing any off-grid system is understanding your daily energy usage (measured in kilowatt-hours, or kWh). For small off-grid setups, the daily energy consumption typically ranges from 2 to 3 kWh, depending on the number of appliances used and the duration of stay on-site.
🔌 Daily Energy Needs
Typical daily energy usage: 1.5 to 3 kWh per day — a perfect fit for a micro off-grid solution.
Simple example using a load table:
| Appliance | Power Rating (W) | Daily Use | Energy Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| LED Lights (x4) | 5 W each | 5 hrs | 100 Wh |
| Bar Fridge | 80 W avg | 24 hrs (cycled) | 1000 Wh |
| Water Pump | 250 W | 0.5 hrs | 250 Wh |
| Phone Charging | 10 W | 2 hrs | 20 Wh |
| Laptop Charging | 60 W | 2 hrs | 120 Wh |
| Wi-Fi + Modem | 40 W | 24 hrs | 960 Wh |
| Fan or TV | 80 W | 4 hrs | 240 Wh |
| Total Estimated Daily Usage | — | — | 2.7 kWh/day |
Notes:
Larger systems in this category may include additional kitchen appliances, such as toasters, power tools, or devices used for extended periods, bringing usage closer to 4 kWh/day.
Seasonal changes, fridge efficiency, and battery losses (approx. 8–12%) will be factored into the final system design.
☀️ Solar Array Sizing
Micro systems usually include a solar array from 0.6kW to 2kW, depending on usage and available roof space. In Victoria’s temperate climate, sizing the array slightly larger ensures better performance in winter and cloudy conditions.
800–1000W: Suitable for ultra-low users or seasonal cabins
1.2–1.8kW: Ideal for full-time tiny homes or cabins with a fridge and lights
2.0kW+: For added margin or future expansion (e.g. adding a small washing machine or TV)
A small ground-mount frame can also be used when roof space or orientation is limited.
⚡Inverter and Loads
Choosing the right inverter is crucial, as it determines the maximum power (in watts) that can be drawn at one time. The inverter also acts as a battery charger when a generator is connected.
For micro systems:
1.6kW to 3kW inverters are typically used
Models like the Victron MultiPlus 48/3000 are popular for their reliability and smart control features
These systems can handle lights, fridges, and small tools — but not all at once. Surge loads (such as a water pump or fridge startup) must be factored in, and users need to be aware of load management, especially at night or during poor weather conditions.
🔋 Battery Storage
Battery capacity determines how long your system can operate without sun, especially overnight or during cloudy or rainy weather.
We typically recommend:
4 to 5 kWh for occasional or weekend use
5 to 10 kWh for daily use or higher loads
Lithium batteries (especially LFP types) are ideal due to their compact size, long lifespan, and ability to discharge deeply without damage. Brands like Pylontech, Discover AES, and PowerPlus Energy are commonly used in our systems.
Expandability & Flexibility
Unlike fixed kits, Transfer Solar’s micro systems are designed with future growth in mind. You can easily:
Add more solar panels later using an additional MPPT charge controller
Expand your battery bank with stackable LFP modules
Integrate a small backup generator for extra autonomy during long, cloudy periods
This flexibility is especially valuable if your site evolves into a more permanent dwelling.
Pre-Built & Ready to Install
Every system we build is:
Custom-designed to your loads and location
Pre-wired and pre-programmed in our workshop
Tested before delivery
Delivered across north-east and central Victoria (for a reasonable fee)
Optional installation by our SAA-certified electricians is available
Whether you’re building a backcountry retreat or upgrading your remote weekender, we make the process easy and compliant with all current solar and battery regulations.
Why Work With Transfer Solar?
At Transfer Solar, we’ve been designing and building tailored off-grid systems since 2011. Unlike many mass-produced kits, our systems are custom-configured for your site, budget, and power needs — and pre-built in our workshop so they’re ready to install with minimal hassle.
We use an SAA-accredited off-grid designer with over 14 years of experience in solar and battery systems. Unlike online kit resellers, we work with you to ensure that the system you receive is tailored to your actual usage, built with high-quality components, and designed to last.
👉 Contact Transfer Solar to discuss your ideal off-grid or battery system.