🔆 Another Day Building Our 5K Off-Grid Solar System
Building off-grid infrastructure is never as simple as it looks on paper — and today was a perfect example of that.
We spent another long day working on our **5K solar power system**, a critical part of keeping our off-grid campground and event space running sustainably. While we were excited to finally get everything installed, the process came with an unexpected challenge right out of the gate.
The frame that was purchased with the solar panels turned out to be **missing several major components**, parts that were essential to assembling the system safely and correctly. Unfortunately, replacements for those components weren’t available anywhere, which meant we had no choice but to **redesign the entire setup from scratch**.
Redesigning a solar system mid-build isn’t ideal, but off-grid life teaches you flexibility fast. After reassessing the structure, sourcing alternative parts, and adjusting the layout, we were finally able to move forward.
By the end of the day — just before the sun dipped below the horizon — we successfully completed **one full solar unit and got it installed into place**. Seeing it standing and ready was a huge win after the setbacks earlier in the day.
Every step like this brings us closer to a stronger, more reliable **off-grid solar power system**, helping us reduce reliance on generators and keep our desert operation running efficiently. Progress may not always be fast, but it’s always worth it.
Stay tuned — there’s much more solar work ahead as we continue building a resilient, sustainable future off-grid.
Www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
Music by Advocatus Diaboli and the Grim Leafer Band http://www.advocatusdiaboliandthegrimleaferband.com
—
#OffGridLiving #SolarPower #DIYsolar #SustainableEnergy #DesertLife
Tag: Renewable Energy
Why We Chose Off-Grid Living 🌿 Turning Challenges Into Freedom, Simplicity & Inspiration Every Day
Off-Grid Inspiration: Finding Freedom in Simplicity
Living off-grid is more than just a lifestyle choice — it’s a journey of **resilience, creativity, and freedom**. Every challenge faced without relying on the grid becomes a reminder of what we’re truly capable of when we step outside the ordinary.
When you live off-grid, every sunrise brings new lessons. From building systems that power our homes, to reusing resources in creative ways, each step moves us closer to a life of independence and sustainability. It’s not always easy. Harsh weather, repairs, and unexpected setbacks can test our patience. But those very challenges become the source of strength and inspiration.
The heart of off-grid living is **connection** — to the land, to nature, and to ourselves. It’s about slowing down enough to notice the sound of the wind, the rhythm of rain, or the stillness of the stars above. In those quiet moments, we discover that we don’t need as much as we once thought.
For us, inspiration comes from knowing that every system we build — from solar setups to water collection, from gardens to simple off-grid showers — is another step toward **freedom and sustainability**. Each project carries a purpose: to reduce waste, conserve resources, and live in harmony with the environment.
Off-grid living isn’t about running away from the world. It’s about creating a life where **freedom, resilience, and nature all work together.** And that’s the kind of inspiration worth sharing.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
—
#OffGridLiving #HomesteadLife #SustainableLiving #FreedomLifestyle #EcoInspiration
Off-Grid Morning: Solar Power Challenges and Life with Vibria the Pup at KaHoon Campground
This morning, we woke up to find the solar power out, which was strange since we had a full day of sun yesterday. As I lay in bed, my mind raced with possible reasons. My first thought was that maybe we’d forgotten to turn off the PA after rehearsal with the animatronics. That thing pulls about 3,000 watts, and we’ve accidentally left it on a few times before. But I distinctly remembered us shutting it down, so that couldn’t be it. The next thought, which I dreaded, was that something might be wrong with the solar system itself.
Eventually, I gave in and got up, mostly because the dogs decided it was time. Vibria was already calling from her box, ready to start the day. After letting the dogs out, I usually throw in a bit of fetch, fill up their water, and inevitably annoy them by going inside to make coffee. But not today. Today, I was on a mission to figure out what happened with the solar.
It didn’t take long to crack the case. Somehow, the fridge had switched to using both electric and gas. That means it draws power from the batteries first before automatically switching to gas when the power runs out. To make things worse, the RV charging system had switched to boost mode, which draws extra power to charge the RV batteries faster. Running both the fridge and boost mode overnight drained the system. It’s fine during the day when the solar’s up and running, but overnight? Not so much.
With a sigh of relief, I realized nothing was broken. Now, we’re just waiting for the sun to come up and recharge the solar. It’s a bit cloudy this morning, so it may take longer than usual, but it only takes about an hour or two of full sun to get the batteries back to normal.
Meanwhile, the dogs got their morning playtime, barked at a camper stopping by to say hello, and are now back to napping. Vibria’s curled up at my feet, and we’re just waiting on that coffee to percolate.
http://www.plateauhamedecolquhoun.com
——-
#OffGridLiving #SolarPowerLife #RVLife #AnimatronicsShow #TinyHouseAdventures #PlateauHameDeColquhoun #KaHoonCampground #KaHoonVenue #SolarPowerIssues #DogLife #VibriaThePup #MorningRoutine #LifeInTheDesert #RuralLiving #SustainableLiving
Embracing Desert Life: Off-Grid Living in New Mexico At Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center.
Living Off-Grid in the New Mexico Desert: A Journey of Resilience and Community
The New Mexico desert is a place of stunning beauty and tranquility, offering a unique and inspiring lifestyle for those who choose to live off-grid. At Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center, we embrace the challenges and rewards of desert living, creating a community where nature, adventure, and human connection thrive.
#### Embracing the Beauty of the Desert
Every day in the desert brings a new adventure and a deeper connection with nature. The vast landscapes, unique rock formations, and vibrant flora and fauna provide a backdrop for endless exploration. Whether it’s hiking through rugged trails, marveling at the stunning sunsets, or simply enjoying the serene silence, the desert offers a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
#### Building a Resilient Community
Living off-grid in the desert teaches us resilience and adaptability. At Ka-Hoon Campground, we rely on solar power, conserve water, and utilize sustainable practices to thrive in this environment. Our community comes together to share resources, support each other, and celebrate our unique lifestyle. We host events like the “Music in the Desert Saturdays” and “Drum Circle on the Longest Day of the Year” to foster connections and create lasting memories.
#### Overcoming Challenges
Desert living is not without its challenges. The extreme temperatures, scarce water sources, and isolation require careful planning and resourcefulness. We schedule outdoor work for early mornings and late evenings to avoid the midday heat, and we find ways to stay cool indoors during the hottest part of the day. Our dogs also enjoy the cool interior of our homes, staying hydrated and comfortable with misting systems on particularly hot days.
#### Celebrating Together
One of the highlights of our community is gathering around the Colquhoun Hearth, our communal firepit. Located within the Colquhoun Circle, this space is open to all campers, weather permitting. It’s a place to socialize, play music, tell stories, and enjoy the mesmerizing New Mexico skies. From bonfires and talent shows to drum circles and camping nights, our events bring people together to share in the magic of the desert.
#### Join Us in the Desert
Living off-grid in the New Mexico desert is a journey of resilience, community, and inspiration. At Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center, we welcome you to join us and experience the beauty and tranquility of desert life. Whether you’re camping under the stars, participating in our events, or simply soaking in the serene environment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For more information about our community, events, and how to get involved, visit our [website](https://plateauhamedecolquhoun.com) or follow us on social media. Embrace the adventure and discover the magic of living off-grid in the New Mexico desert.
—
#OffGridLiving #NewMexicoDesert #DesertCommunity #SustainableLiving #DesertLife #KaHoonCampground ##KaHoonEventCenter #ColquhounHearth #NatureConnection #ResilientLiving #DesertEvents #CommunityLife #ExploreNewMexico #DesertAdventure #LiveOffGrid #CampgroundEvents #PlateauHameDeColquhoun
Ka-Hoon Campground and Event Center 