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Last updated: April 2026

Our Methodology

We built The Off Grid Outpost to be the solar planner we wished we had when we started. Here is exactly how we operate, how we make money, and what we refuse to do.

1. How we make recommendations

Our AI agent uses Claude Sonnet 4.6 combined with manually curated equipment data and state-specific net metering rules. When you answer our intake questions, the system maps your home's energy usage, sun hours, and goals against a catalog of vetted, real-world solar equipment.

We size your array mathematically based on the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) peak sun hour averages for your state. We size your battery based on your stated resilience goals and whether your local utility offers 1:1 net metering (if they don't, we recommend batteries to avoid giving the utility free power).

2. How we make money

The Off Grid Outpost is 100% free to use. We do not sell your data, and we do not sell your contact information to solar installers as "leads."

Instead, we use affiliate links. If our plan recommends a specific inverter or solar panel, and you click the link to buy it from a retailer (like Signature Solar or Current Connected), we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

This model allows us to remain independent from installers. We want you to pay the lowest possible landed cost for your system, whether that means DIY, a hybrid approach, or knowing exactly what a fair turnkey quote should look like.

3. What we refuse to do

  • We will never sell your email or phone number. Most "free solar quote" websites are lead generation fronts that sell your phone number to 5-10 different sales companies. We don't even ask for your phone number.
  • We won't recommend bad equipment. We only include equipment in our catalog that is well-reviewed and supportable in the US market.
  • We won't hide the math. Our plans break down the exact costs for equipment, labor, and permits, so you can see where every dollar goes.

4. Pricing accuracy

The equipment prices in our catalog are updated periodically but may lag behind real-time retail prices. The labor and permit estimates are based on national and state averages as of 2026. Local market conditions vary. Always use our plans as a strong benchmark, not a binding quote.