Online caravan and off-grid solar kit shop

Caravanners, campers, boat owners, farmers and owners of off-grid sheds and cabins who want to set up a system themselves.

You buy from wholesalers at trade prices and sell at a mark-up. You can raise the average order by bundling products into ready-made kits with clear instructions.

• Basic understanding of 12V and solar systems
• Product descriptions and customer advice
• Online shop and order handling

• Register for an ABN and check when you need to register for GST
• Check that products meet Australian electrical safety and labelling requirements (such as the RCM mark) with your state's electrical safety regulator
• Grid-connected systems generally need an accredited installer, so be clear that your kits are for off-grid or portable use and check the rules
• Check Australian Consumer Law obligations on warranties and returns, and consider product liability insurance
• Batteries and bulky panels can be costly to ship and store, so check freight costs before setting prices

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how much stock you hold, whether a wholesaler ships direct to customers, and your website setup. These are estimates, so check freight and storage costs for bulky panels and batteries.

Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your product range, marketing and how many customers you attract. That is revenue, not profit, as stock and freight come out of it. Expect at least 15 hours a week.

Check ABN and GST registration, and whether products meet Australian electrical safety and labelling requirements, such as the RCM mark, with your state regulator. Grid-connected systems generally need an accredited installer, so check the rules. Also check Australian Consumer Law and product liability insurance.