Renewable Energy
for the
Developing World
Site Wiring Diagram
Installation at the Couples Cabin
Rancho Mastatal is an environmental learning and sustainable living center, retreat and lodge. 
The 550 acre Ranch is located in the transition zone between humid and pre-montane rainforest. Tim and Robin have a great relationship with the local community and help lead local efforts in conservation, education and community growth. As an educational center, they provide sleeping quarters, classroom space and food service. Their mode of operation is to practice and promote living responsibly in the Tropics while educating their visitors about the significance and majesty of the world’s disappearing tropical forests.
The “couple cabin” is one of the newest accommodations at the camp. While many of the buildings are connected to the grid. This cabin is further away from the main house and had no running water or power.
Tim and Robin wanted to install a solar unit for many reasons. They wanted to provide light as a convenience to their guests. We installed a reading lamp and also a string of Christmas lights. The string of Christmas lights gave the cabin a soft lighting atmosphere and the lamp was placed by the bed for evening reading.
The couple’s cabin is located on Rancho Mastatal but further away from the other buildings, providing privacy and a “jungle” feel.
It is surrounded by many tall trees that did create some sun blockage. Tim has told us some of the trees will be cut down to maximize the energy collected.The latitude and longitude for San Jose is 9º 56’ N, 84º 05’ W. Mastatal is about 50 km south west. Average annual high temperatures range between 75 and 80 degrees fahrenheit. Average annual low temperatures range from 58 to 62 degrees fahrenheit.