I have been quietly fretting over the cost of the poles that were going to hold up the tarp that would provide shade and shelter from rain. They were Kelty Adjustable Tarp Poles, and cost about $40 each. That was $80 just for two poles.

Then I saw this solution, which was a good bit cheaper, and looked sturdier. Doug is using painters extension poles to hold up his solar panels. I can use them for the tarp.

Extendable painter poles

These are about $20 each and go from 6′ to 12′. So perfect. I can get three and still save money! Thank you Doug for the detailed instructions on the solar set up. Thank you Bob for posting it on your always helpful site.