Muskoka’s iconic landscape – towering pines, quiet lakes, and winding backroads – offers a tranquil escape. But for residents and seasonal dwellers, power outages remain a disruptive reality. A sudden blackout can mean no heat, lights, or internet for days.
For those who live or work in the region, having reliable power is more than a convenience – it’s a necessity.
“The demand on the grid is through the roof,” says Travis Riggin, Vice President of Sales at Solwel Solar Energy. “If you’re running a business from your cottage, you need dependable hydro. You’re not here to add more stress to your life – you’re here to escape it.”
Travis says taking control of your power supply doesn’t require an all-in-one leap. Energy independence, he says, can be built step by step.
“If it were me, I’d start with a battery,” he says. “We use the PointGuard Energy system, which gives you reliable backup during outages and keeps essentials running for two to three days, depending on your setup.”
Newer electric vehicles with bidirectional charging capabilities can even be used to top up home batteries.
“You can program your EV to maintain a minimum charge – say, 15 to 20 percent – so you’ve always got something in reserve,” Travis explains.
Once a battery system is in place, solar panels can be added to generate and store energy, providing greater autonomy and reducing reliance on utility power.
“With solar, you decide when to draw from the grid and when to use your own energy,” Travis says. “You can even feed power back to the grid, which can significantly reduce your hydro bill. At that stage, you’re about 80 percent off-grid. Add a generator, and you’re essentially fully independent.”
While the company distributes high-end brands – including Sunmodo racking systems, which Travis describes as especially user-friendly – it’s the project management and long-term planning that he emphasizes most.
“We can take care of the project for you from start to finish. We’ve got over 20 years in the industry,” he explains. “We only work with ethical, local professionals in putting your system together. It’s really about getting you to a place where you feel secure and in control.”
His advice for those considering the shift? Start small, learn as you go, and build from there.
“It feels good to be your own power manager,” Travis says. “And there’s no better place to do that than right here in Muskoka.”
TEXT KARI KLASSEN
