We wire the systems we write about.
Rival Energy is an independent guide to DIY solar and off-grid power. We test the components, run the numbers, and explain — in plain English — how to build a safe, working system yourself.
What we cover
The whole DIY power stack: solar panels, charge controllers, inverters, LiFePO4 and deep-cycle batteries, portable power stations, 12V/DC gear, wiring and protection, and monitoring. If it belongs in a van, cabin, RV, or backup build, we cover it.
Editorial policy
Rival Energy is independent. We recommend components on real specs, safety, and value — never on commission. Electrical work carries real risk: our guides are educational, not a substitute for local code or a licensed electrician where one is required. Always confirm current specs and ratings before you buy or wire anything.
- Specs, not spin. We recommend on real output, safety, and value — and we flag the gotchas (temperature limits, surge ratings, fusing) the product pages skip.
- No paid placements. Brands can't buy a rating or a spot on a list.
- Clear affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, and every outbound link uses
rel="sponsored nofollow". See our disclosure. - Safety is non-negotiable. Our guides are educational. High-current DC and household AC can injure or kill — follow local code and use a licensed electrician where one is required.
How we size and score
Our Rival score weighs real-world performance, safety and build quality, how well a component fits a typical DIY system, and value per watt or per usable kWh. We favor gear that plays nicely in a wider system over spec-sheet heroes that don't.
Contact
Corrections, questions, or a component you want us to test? Email [email protected].