About
The SOTA Solar Calculator is a free online planning tool developed by SOTA Solar, a Minnesota-based off-grid and RV solar installation company specializing in custom Victron Energy systems. The calculator helps users determine the right solar setup for a wide variety of applications — including travel trailers, fifth wheels, Class A and Class B RVs, Airstreams, van conversions, bus conversions, off-grid cabins, work trailers, food trucks, and job sites. Users can estimate their daily energy consumption, calculate appropriate battery capacity (including LiFePO4 lithium options), select solar panel arrays, and understand inverter requirements — all without needing technical expertise. The platform also includes a comprehensive guide covering federal solar tax credits, Victron equipment layout examples, lithium battery selection advice, and a gallery of real-world installation photos to help users visualize finished systems. As an authorized Victron Energy dealer, SOTA Solar pairs the calculator with expert consulting, full system design services, and professional installation. The tool is designed for both DIY builders who want to self-install and customers seeking turnkey solutions in the Midwest. Whether you're outfitting a weekend camper or building a full-time off-grid power system, the SOTA Solar Calculator provides a practical, no-cost starting point for planning a safe, reliable, and efficient solar energy system.
Key Features
- Solar System Calculator: Step-by-step tool to estimate daily energy consumption and calculate the correct solar panel, battery, and inverter sizing for your specific setup.
- Victron Equipment Guidance: Recommendations and layout examples for Victron Energy components — one of the most trusted brands in off-grid power systems.
- Lithium Battery Sizing: Guidance on selecting the right LiFePO4 lithium battery capacity for RVs, cabins, boats, and golf carts based on your power needs.
- Federal Solar Tax Credit Guide: Educational resource explaining available federal tax credits for solar installations to help users maximize their investment.
- Real Installation Examples: Gallery of completed RV and off-grid solar builds providing visual references for system layouts and component integration.
Use Cases
- Sizing a solar power system for a travel trailer or fifth wheel RV before purchasing components
- Planning a complete off-grid power setup for a van or bus conversion build
- Estimating battery and panel requirements for an off-grid cabin or remote job site
- Researching Victron Energy component configurations and layout options for an existing RV upgrade
- Calculating potential federal tax credit savings when investing in a new solar installation
Pros
- Completely Free to Use: The calculator and guides are available at no cost, making professional-grade solar planning accessible to any budget.
- Backed by Real Installation Expertise: Built by a certified Victron Energy dealer with hands-on experience across vans, trailers, cabins, and commercial vehicles.
- Broad Vehicle & Application Coverage: Supports a wide range of use cases from Class A RVs and Airstreams to van conversions, food trucks, and off-grid cabins.
Cons
- Focused on Victron Ecosystem: Component recommendations and expertise are centered on Victron Energy products, which may not suit users looking for brand-agnostic guidance.
- Installation Services Limited to Midwest: Professional installation and in-person consulting are primarily available in Minnesota and surrounding Midwest regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the SOTA Solar Calculator free to use?
Yes, the solar system calculator and all associated guides on the SOTA Solar website are completely free to access online.
What types of vehicles and setups does the calculator support?
The calculator supports travel trailers, fifth wheels, Class A and B RVs, Airstreams, van conversions, bus conversions, off-grid cabins, work trailers, food trucks, and job site power needs.
What solar equipment brand does SOTA Solar recommend?
SOTA Solar is a certified Victron Energy dealer and primarily recommends Victron components for inverters, charge controllers, and battery monitors due to their reliability and integration capabilities.
Can I use the calculator if I plan to DIY my own installation?
Absolutely. The calculator and guides are designed to help both DIY builders and those seeking professional installation plan the right system size and component selection.
Does SOTA Solar offer professional installation services?
Yes, SOTA Solar provides full solar system design, consulting, and installation services, primarily serving customers in Minnesota and the Midwest region.
