Meet Our Founder and CEO, Larry Dahl
Larry’s journey with off-grid solar power living started nearly two decades ago. With a background in the power industry and a desire for a more self-sufficient lifestyle, he and his wife took a leap into the world of solar power and sustainable living. Their story is one of transitioning from city life in Calgary to a peaceful, energy-independent existence in Northern Alberta. Here's how they made it happen.
Their experience living with off-grid power began in 2005. You might say it was a mid-life crisis coupled with becoming empty nesters. After spending 20 years working for a major power company in Calgary, Larry and his wife got the itch to make a change. They decided to move to the Peace River district of Northern Alberta, near Larry’s small hometown of Beaverlodge.
They purchased a small 15-acre plot of land, mostly bush with a long driveway, for less than $20,000. It soon became their paradise.
By the next summer, they had placed a 1,200-square-foot home on the property, complete with a septic system and a drilled water well—not to mention a wood-burning stove and a winter's stock of firewood.
Next came the solar panels and battery bank. They also invested in an 8-kilowatt backup generator, which they set up in their workshop and connected to the solar power system with an auto start/stop function.
The result? Reliable power and plenty of heat in their home throughout all the seasons. Plus, they are no longer dependent on the big power companies!
Off-Grid Solar Power Living
Although Larry and his wife are living off-grid, they haven't compromised on modern conveniences. Their home includes a TV, computer, large refrigerator, stainless steel dishwasher, and a 5-burner propane stove, as well as two small deep freezers. The laundry room is equipped with a front-loading washer and propane clothes dryer, and their master bedroom even has an air conditioner for those hot summer days.
During their second winter in the off-grid home, they spent $700 on diesel, $400 on propane, and $300 on firewood. They were shocked that all of their utilities came in under $1,500! That winter, they added an auto-generator start system to their solar battery bank and purchased a low-power egg incubator and brooder to start raising their own chickens (followed by turkeys and geese). Their chicken stock started from a more natural, free-roaming variety, suitable for their small acreage.
Their Improvements
Since then, Larry and his wife have moved their solar panels from a ground mount to a pole, as advancements in technology have allowed them to use six panels instead of nine. Their first battery bank provided 12 years of service, despite the wear and tear it endured in the early years. The auto-start system on their generator proved to be a worthwhile investment, as it not only reduced diesel consumption but also extended the life of their batteries.
About Solarwyse Solar Power Solutions
Solarwyse Ltd. established its online presence in 2005, coinciding with the installation of Larry and his wife’s home power system. Committed to launching the company without incurring significant debt, they adopted a gradual approach, building the business on a foundation of integrity and expertise.
Larry was driven by a desire to share his experiences and help others achieve energy independence. This mission emphasized trust-building and the creation of a brand they could take pride in. Their greatest asset was their extensive knowledge and experience in the off-grid lifestyle.
Over the years, Solarwyse has earned a reputation for honesty and a commitment to transparency, willingly sharing industry insights with clients. This approach not only attracted a growing clientele but also positioned them among a select group of industry professionals recognized for their integrity and straight forwardness.
Home Solar Solutions
By 2015, Solarwyse had sold home solar kits and solutions across Canada and into the Territories. Their reputation and name were becoming recognized nationwide. However, they felt they were more than just a sales company, so they decided to rebrand as Solarwyse Solar Power Solutions Inc.
The name ‘Solarwyse’ became a registered trademark in Canada, a name protected by trust and reliability.
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