Hey! I’m Eric — the human behind MicroHomesteader.com. I started this blog because I wanted simple, practical answers about solar power and self-reliant living without the jargon or sales pressure. I share what I learn in plain English, with lots of step-by-step guides and “here’s what actually worked for me” notes.
Our mission (in one line)
Help everyday people make confident, money-smart choices about solar and sustainable home energy.
What you’ll find here
- Solar made simple: How panels work, system components, grid-tied vs. off-grid, and what really affects efficiency.
- Money & math (the fun kind): Cost breakdowns, incentives, ROI and payback, financing options, and real-world examples.
- Practical how-tos: Sizing basics, placement and tilt tips, cleaning and maintenance, upgrading with batteries.
- Decision support: Comparisons (panel types, batteries, generators), pros/cons, and checklists you can print and use.
- Lifestyle & resilience: Off-grid ideas, backup power planning, and smarter everyday energy habits.
How I write (and why it’s different)
- Friendly and personal: I use “I” because I’m learning right alongside you. If I make a mistake, I’ll tell you and show the fix.
- Hands-on first: I prefer real tests and live results over theory whenever possible.
- No fluff: Short paragraphs, clear headings, and skimmable summaries so you can get answers fast.
Who this site is for
- Homeowners exploring solar for the first time
- Renters and small-space folks curious about portable or partial solutions
- DIY tinkerers who love step-by-step guidance
- Anyone who wants reliable backup power and lower bills without headaches
Editorial standards
- Clarity over hype: If a claim needs math, we show the math.
- Current & accurate: We keep key guides (costs, incentives, best-of) updated as policies and prices change.
- Reader-first: If something isn’t clear, I rewrite it. Your questions shape future posts.
How MicroHomesteader.com makes money
To keep the site free, we use display ads (like AdSense). Sometimes, we may include recommended resources or tools. If there’s any compensation involved, I’ll disclose it clearly. Your trust matters more than any click.
Start here
- New to solar? Read: How Do Solar Panels Work?
- Wondering about costs? Read: How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in 2025?
- Trying to choose a system? Read: Grid-Tied vs. Off-Grid vs. Hybrid
- Want quick wins? Read: What Affects Solar Panel Efficiency (and Easy Fixes)
Let’s chat
Got a question, a correction, or a story to share? I’d love to hear from you. Drop a comment under any post or reach out via the contact page. If you want updates when new guides go live, join the (low-spam) email list — you’ll get concise notes with only the good stuff.
Thanks for being here — and for building a smarter, more resilient home right where you are.