I see a generator as being a big cost for little gain too. One more engine that won't get used enough to be reliable when you need it. The last time I had an extended outage (Charley) we survived using inverters running off my car.
To be honest I have been thinking about 2 or 3 systems anyway. The solar contractor says he can work the loopholes so I can get the rebates on everything as long as some of it is grid tied. The collectors are the big thing and he can diddle the numbers to get all of them on the rebate.
I really like the direct drive pool pump idea. That is elegant without complication.
The grid tie part in necessary for the rebates and I would also like a battery system that uses my golf cart for storage and runs the tiki bar fridge and a few outlets.
My real problem at this point is available south facing roof. I may end up with collectors in ground racks.
