When planning to go off grid or reduce your power bill, the approach is different from just looking for a backup to KPLC instabilities. This point is critical in determining the overall cost of the system.

If you only need a backup system, then what amorphous recommends is perfect. You just need something to charge phones, lighting and very basic use of power. The rest like microwave oven, water heating etc can wait.

When going off grid or planning to move in that direction, the planning requirements are long term and in some cases lifestyle needs to be adjusted. In this scenario, the loading requirements determine the battery dimension which determines the bulk of the cost.

Personally i recommend solar water heating solutions for all cases. A solar water heater when planned for properly, guarantees hot water throughout the household and some storage attached to that too.

hehehehehe I like this! I like a minimalist approach to solar; it shouldn't be the type of system one should depend on to power 100% of their full load in Nairobi (if the site is in the boondocks) but rather something to power the basics 24/7. In the city...it should just be a backup. Solar water heater is a wonderful idea. No need for instant showers and heaters that draw needless juice. Microwave has been a no no for me even with KPLC. I read the studies on the harmful effects on foods and said never again around 2010 or so. Even at restaurants if I see them heading to warm my samosa in a microwave I shout a loud NO.

That is the MOST COST EFFECTIVE setup you will ever need to go off grid and it takes care of 100% of your needs.

You could also get a direct drive solar fridge that connects directly to the solar panel without the need of a battery. This would reduce expense on solar batteries greatly. Direct drive Solar fridge costs 96k from sollatek and includes a free panel.