Re: [a/s] 6volt vs. 12 volt?benefits and feasibility

[Randall Reynolds <aplaceinthewoods@xxxxxxxxx>]

Bill:

 You have made some great points, and you are totally 
correct. I looked back through my receipts and found
my 5 panel system really added up to less, about
$3500.00, with inverter, but not batteries. But still,
I know that the savings may never pay off long term.
They can be used to run my house, (they already are
running this computer, in the house) as well, they can
be removed someday and put on a house. They are
guaranteed for 25 years, so if they ever stop "putting
out" you better believe I will be Siemens worst
nightmare! 
     Solar panels are more of a novelty, and a way of
freeing one's self from the grid. But when doing so
you still have to worry about water and sewer. Let's
face it, when you are mobile, there is only so much
you can do before it becomes ridiculous! And as well
with the dwindling availability now of regions with
long term parking and safety concerns. At least, in
the Southwest, and yes, I do know of all the BLM
areas. (Some are rather inconvenient god forsaken
areas and wouldn't leave my trailer there unattended!)
You are right about the generator too. I bought one at
about the same time I did the solar panels. A (5500
watt Yamaha industrial model) cost $2800.00. But have
found generators (even quieter ones) and State Parks
don't mix well, perhaps boon-docking. In this state,
sound really carries. I did carry mine about 1000
miles, but never used it much, as I felt bad ruining
the peace and quiet for others. You have to carry gas
for it as well: dangerous. I still have it, and can
use it to run my mountain vacation home, but never use
it there either. I hope to use it when we start
building at another location next year. So you see
generators are sometimes a waste of money, too. So
that is one argument for solar panels, they don't
annoy people with noise, they don't have to be started
or serviced, they aren't likely to be stolen if
permanently mounted, they don't require gas, and they
will run everything but the air conditioner. And they
can be used at a rest area, parking lot, anywhere
there is sun, as well they charge everything while you
drive.
     But, as you said there IS the cost. In this day
and age, they are merely an expensive toy. I think the
next system, that will be feasible, will be the fuel
cell!

RR in the Arizona White Mountains 

PS: Boy are you good with math, wish I had that
trait.....