Every day, we literally plug into the grid and live a comfortable life with instant running water, electricity, and sewage disposal. Today’s world means that most people in first-world countries are entitled to these things.
While these things provide comfort and safety in our everyday lives, they do create a dependence on utility companies. They also tether us to places where these companies reach.
Would you rather be self-sufficient so you have more freedom to live in more isolated places? Then keep reading to find out how to live off the grid.
Find a Good Piece of Land
Where you live will have a huge impact on how easy it is to live off the grid. So it’s worth it to take some time to find the perfect piece of land.
In general, you’ll want to look in a remote place, as chances are, there won’t be strict laws surrounding licenses and permits for building. Also, the land will be cheaper, meaning you can get more bang for your buck, and the property taxes are usually lower too.
In addition, search for pieces of land that have rich resources, such as soil, trees, and water. Year-round access is great too, so you won’t get stuck during bad weather.
If you aren’t able to do this and have to stay in your existing house, then don’t worry too much. You should still be able to at least go partially off the grid. If you’re lucky, you can do it completely in some cases.
Build Your Home
For the hardcore off-gridder, you’ll build your home from scratch. Otherwise, you’ll completely disconnect your house, which isn’t always feasible.
Many opt for a small cabin, as it’s a cozy shelter that’s perfect for living remotely. You can also build a yurt or go with a tiny house.
You should decide which type of home you want before you purchase land. Or if you’ve already got it, then think about the surroundings and how you can take advantage of them with the house you build.
You can always DIY things, but to be on the safe side, work with a housing contractor. More specifically, choose someone who has experience building off-grid properties. That way, you’ll hit fewer road bumps along the way.
You can contact tiny home companies too. This can be a cheaper route, and some companies can deliver portable ones!
If you don’t want to deal with building a home, then consider purchasing a camper or RV. This gives you the flexibility to move around too.
Get a Solar Panel System
Solar energy is one of the best ways to sever your ties with the grid. It’s one of the cleanest types of renewable energy since there’s no pollution when collecting and using it.
What’s great is that you can add solar panels to practically every type of property, even RVs and campers. While it’ll take a hefty sum of money to get set up, it’ll pay off in the long run when you go solar. Plus, there are both federal and state incentives, so those will help take some of the burden of costs off your shoulders.
This system can essentially power everything in your life. From making your lightbulbs turn on to heating your hot water heater, solar panels will enable you to be fully self-sufficient.
Set Up Backup Power
While not all solar panel systems have batteries, we highly recommend you get one. Battery storage will give you power if you run into cloudy days or panel malfunctions.
You don’t want life to come to a grinding halt if things go wrong, so you’ll want to set up a backup power system, even if you have a solar panel battery. That way, you have extra security.
The secondary power source will depend on where you’re situated. For example, you can install a micro hydropower turbine if you’re by a river, or you can get a wind turbine if the wind’s strong in the area.
Grow a Garden
You probably won’t be able to grow enough food to live off of 100%, especially if you’ve got a family. But you can definitely supplement a good part of your diet with homegrown greens!
Search what plants do well in your area and sow seeds at the appropriate times. Whatever you can’t eat, preserve through freezing and canning. That way, you’ll have access to these foods all year long.
Get Food From the Land
If you don’t want to bother with a garden, or want to supplement your food even more, then take advantage of the land around you.
Educate yourself on the local plants to learn what you can forage. For instance, you can gather fruits, berries, and nuts from trees.
You can also hunt wildlife and go fishing. Just make sure you’re following the law and apply for the proper permits and licenses if needed.
Now You Know How to Live Off the Grid
Knowing how to live off the grid can be a real life changer. Not only can you build something you’re truly proud of, but you can also become self-sufficient and reduce your carbon footprint too.
We can’t promise that it’ll be an easy journey living off the grid. However, it’ll certainly be a memorable experience, and you’ll also gain energy independence! Even if you end up connecting back to the grid, you’ll have a newfound appreciation for those who can maintain the lifestyle.
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