Online solar kit shop for cabins, rvs and DIY

Cabin and cottage owners, RV and van owners, off-grid homeowners and small installers who need a quick top-up of parts.

A margin on each item or bundled kit, plus extra for wiring, cables and accessories. Pre-made kits with clear instructions usually raise the average order value.

• Basic understanding of solar components
• Online selling and product listings
• Customer service and clear advice
• Organising orders and suppliers

• Check that electrical products carry a certification mark accepted in Canada (such as CSA or cUL), and ask your provincial electrical safety authority what applies
• Check import duties and tariffs on panels and batteries, and how currency swings affect your margins
• Batteries and other regulated goods can have special shipping rules, so check with your carrier
• Give general product information only. Grid-connected installs usually need a qualified electrician and permits, so check local rules
• Check GST/HST registration once you pass the small supplier threshold, and French-language rules if you sell in Quebec
• Commercial general liability and product liability insurance, and clear warranty handling with suppliers

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your website, whether you ship direct from suppliers or hold some stock, and insurance. Direct shipping can keep your upfront cost toward the lower end.

Check that electrical products carry a certification mark accepted in Canada, such as CSA or cUL, and ask your provincial electrical safety authority what applies. Also check import duties, battery shipping rules and GST/HST. Grid-connected installs usually need a qualified electrician.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your product range, pricing and how well you reach cabin, RV and off-grid customers. The estimate assumes at least about 10 hours a week.