A Guide to Off Grid Living

 Living off grid is a lifestyle choice for some, but an economical necessity for many. Even in the UK the grid does not reach everywhere – and getting it extended to reach your dream property can be a surprisingly expensive proposition. There are even more homes internationally that struggle to get a constant power source.

So how can you live a grid connected lifestyle without the grid? And what steps do you need to consider when you choose to live offgrid? Here we detail some key considerations, based on our experience working with off grid property owners over the last 9 years.

1. Power on site for the build or renovation

The first point to consider if you are undertaking a new build or converting an existing dwelling is what power you will need for the build. Having adequate power on site can help keep the project on track and on budget. Take a look at our case study for the Waterside property above to see how it can make all the difference.

2. Why not just use a generator for your power off grid?

Whilst you can use a stand alone generator to provide your power for an off grid property or project, it is a hugely inefficient system. You will spend large amounts on fuel and servicing costs which are often the hidden costs of a new project, with owners often not being aware of the costs they will be incurring.

With a correctly specified off grid power system, the complete solution could pay for itself within 12 months of installation, compared to a stand alone generator providing your off grid power. And those savings will continue year on year.

Our generator fuel and servicing chart will show you how our EasyGrid system can make significant fuel and servicing savings of between £3,926 and £11,130 per year compared to a stand alone generator system.

3. Renewables - solar, wind & hydro - which is right for you?

Getting the right renewable inputs into your off grid power system are vital. By far the most popular source in the UK is solar; and the Energy Solutions' team are happy to help you assess your opportunity for solar in your particular location and help you with placement. As a starting point you can get an idea of the solar levels available for your postcode here. Wind and hydro are less common but increasingly being specified. The key factor to consider on all renewables is your location. For example, you need a reliable and suitable water source for micro-hydro, take a look at the Powerspout website to find out more.

4. Appliances - plan early!

Heating, cooking, washing, lighting, work equipment, media, security - how do you handle all these power demands when you are off grid? Wherever possible look at alternatives to electricity for your heating and cooking, these are heavy loads that can have very high peak demands. If you can power them efficiently with gas or alternative power options it will reduce your overall electricity demands significantly. With regards to other facilities and appliances - always choose the most efficient appliances your budget will allow, LED lighting and A++ appliances for example. And remember the appliances we don't even think about day to day - a standard domestic kettle has a 3kW power demand whilst a small LCD TV only draws 50W.  Download our Definitive Guide to Living Off Grid which contains a list of appliances and their loads, this will help you establish the size of power system you are going to need.

Published: 06.07.2018