I have set up several solar systems including a couple for mobile electronic workshops and camps. If I did it again - I would just use pure sine wave generators.
One little generator that uses almost zip fuel is equal to about 40 panels.
The reason why people used solar in the 70's in remote locations is exactly the same as today - it is remote.
Is it worth it? - depends on the application and it also depends on whether you are talking financially or environmentally.
Personally environmentally I don't think it stacks up ever - as I said - yet.
