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Looking to go-offgrid? With the potential consequences of global warming and the strains on our non-renewable resources it's a good time to consider living off the grid. So, what do you need to end your dependence on a resource based infrastructure ? Quite a bit actually: shelter, clean water, food, heating, cooling, and big time conservation. It means living with a lot less, but also "living" a lot more. Learning the science, patterns and cycles of the earth. Learning to garden, to plant, to reap and to sow. It is possible to earn a living while off grid - especially with the advent of a wireless internet (Apple iPhones and RIM-Blackberries) If you intend to live in a remote and affordable area you will need to maintain internet access to connect to the world. Location: The best approach to moving off-grid is a gradual one. If you live in a 4 season environment - where you experience a "cold winter" - heating will be an important consideration. A combination of Geothermal heating and Wood burning stove would be best. A 10-acre supply of hardwood (ie: Maple) would suffice. Often this type of land can be found at a reasonable price along secondary rivers and streams. Of course you would need to re-plant (fast-growing maple,ash,pine) to re-establish the harvested forest. The water from the stream should be tested to ensure that it could be used in the garden and for washing. A well or purification system would be required for potable (drinking) water. And a septic system. Almost all other waste could be recycled and composted in the garden. Plastics are a problem and should be avoided. Renewable Energy Sources: Again, the combination of Solar and Wind Energy is best. Windmills must be on towers to raise them above windbreaks (trees). A good wind site should employ more turbines and fewer solar panels. A tremendous amount of power can be generated from wind and can run during the night. Wind Energy is also cheaper. A $2,800 investment can provide a one-kilowatt turbine. To get a kilowatt from solar would cost $8,000. Batteries store excess power for use during peak periods; the typical Canadian home consumes between 650 to 750 kilowatt hours /month, conservation is key to a successful wind or solar power installation. Check out the latest news on living of the grid on our Blog |
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