Custom Off-Grid Power Setup in Merton: Jason’s Scalable Solar Solution
An off-grid solar system built for now, ready for what’s next
Jason and his partner Ellie live on a scenic 15-acre property in Merton, Victoria, surrounded by grazing cattle and wide open land. While the main grid is just over 2km away, connecting to it would have cost them close to $200,000. That wasn’t a practical solution.
Instead, Jason and Ellie chose a custom off-grid power setup from Commodore Australia, allowing them to live sustainably and plan for future expansion without sacrificing comfort or performance.
“Going off grid was our only option really.”
Designed for Now, Built for Later
Their system was designed in two stages to match their building timeline: first powering their shed where they currently live, and later extending capacity for a 3-4 bedroom home and workshop.
At the core is Commodore’s 10kVA Pre-Wired Power Board, installed by Shane from SLA Electrical Services. It includes a Victron MultiPlus-II inverter, SmartSolar charge controller, and four Pylontech US5000B batteries—offering a solid starting point that’s ready for more batteries and solar panels as their needs grow.
Key Components:
- 10kVA Victron MultiPlus-II Inverter
- SmartSolar MPPT 450/100 Charge Controller
- 4x Pylontech US5000B Batteries (20kWh)
- 16x 440W Canadian Solar panels
- 5kW Fronius inverter
- Premium Commodore 9kVA Diesel Generator (auto-start)
- Adjustable racking, Victron Cerbo GX, and Victron extended warranty
Everyday Reliability, Real-World Testing
Jason didn’t leave anything to chance. He tested the system under heavy load—running multiple heaters, the jug, toaster, and microwave—all at once. The system handled it with ease.
“We’ve only ever drained it down to 31% of battery capacity—and that was with an electric heater running for 6 hours overnight.”
Even during colder nights, their off-grid system kept the van comfortably warm at 22°C while outside temperatures dropped to 12°C. Daily energy usage includes fridges, a television, computer, and a large photo printer used by Ellie, a photographer.
Ready to Handle Heavy Tools and Home Life
As they prepare to build a larger shed and eventually their family home, the system has already been future-proofed. Jason plans to run two MIG welders, and thanks to Commodore’s foresight, the infrastructure to support these upgrades is already in place.
“Once we get the other batteries and more panels, that won’t be a problem.”
Quick and Professional Installation
The off-grid installation was completed efficiently in a single day by the team at SLA Electrical Services, who arrived on time and delivered exactly what was promised. Jason was impressed with both the quality of work and the professionalism of the team.
“It was done and dusted in one day. We’re very, very happy with the installation and the unit itself—we can’t fault it.”
Thinking About a Custom Off-Grid Power Setup?
Jason and Ellie’s story is a great example of how a well-designed off-grid system can provide flexibility, comfort, and cost savings without relying on traditional infrastructure.
Start planning your custom off-grid power setup today:
https://www.commodoreaustralia.com.au/free-consultation/
