It is estimated that 200,000 people live off the power grid in the US. Energy and sewerage networks are included. For most of them, it is a choice to reduce energy consumption and live in more natural conditions. You can find out how to live off the grid by considering the following housing and life choices.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Part 1 of 3: Location
Step 1. Choose a place to live that can provide you with wind or solar power
If you intend to use any type of energy in your home, then you will need an energy source. Choosing a sunny or windy location is essential before choosing an off-grid home.
If you can find a place with both energy sources, you will be even more ready for the adventure
Step 2. Find the money for the initial investment
The bulk of off-grid life is building your own self-sufficient house or buying a place that already has independent energy sources. You can add at least € 5000 just for the initial investment of a house with independent electricity.
Step 3. Choose an offline community
If you can't find land that meets your solar and wind requirements, then choose an existing community dedicated to this lifestyle.
- Consider moving to Oregon. The Three Rivers Recreation Area near Bend has a similar community. Breitenbush is another area with very few inhabitants near Salem.
- Search communities with shared income. These include the "Dancing Rabbit" in Missouri, "Twin Oaks" in Virginia or "Earthhaven" in North Carolina. These communities live off shared income, off the net.
- Consider the "Greater World Community" near Taos, New Mexico. Their “Earthship” houses are entirely made of natural and recycled materials. Properties cost between € 50,000 and € 250,000. The "Arcosanti Ecovillage" in Arizona also uses natural construction methods.
- The "Possibility Alliance" in Missouri aims for a lifestyle cut to a minimum, in which members of the community divide the work, cultivate the land and cook with the help of the sun. Although most of the community only lives here a few months a year, a small percentage call it "home" all year round.
Step 4. Buy land where you can get water from a well and install a septic tank
They are essential elements for the management of water and waste.
Method 2 of 3: Part 2 of 3: Building the house
Step 1. Invest in a plan to produce 10,000 kilowatts / h of electricity per year
It is the energy needed for a classic home. Evaluate the possibility of installing solar panels, wind turbines and other sources of electricity.
Step 2. Invest in generators and other storage devices
You need to store the energy you produce. You also need emergency systems, such as propane generators.
Step 3. Dig a well
You will need it for domestic use, but you can also opt for cisterns for collecting rainwater, especially if you intend to devote yourself to agriculture. Initial investments range from € 1000 to € 10,000 for excavation and pump.
Step 4. Install a septic tank
You will need an initial investment of several thousand euros for this device to be kept underground.
Step 5. Build your house or renovate it with heating in mind
If you live in any place that gets cold in winter, you should consider fireplaces and thermal insulation. Some construction companies specialize in the use of efficient and ecological materials.
Method 3 of 3: Part 3 of 3: Lifestyle changes
Step 1. See if you can reduce your overall electrical footprint
If your lifestyle is based on electronics, then the installation of emergency generators is essential.
Step 2. Minimize the electrical equipment in your home
Get rid of hair dryers, dryers, microwaves, game consoles, and anything else that isn't essential.
Step 3. Start composting
Living off the grid means managing your own waste. Composting and recycling can take care of most of the waste, and you'll have to take the rest to landfill.
Step 4. Rent a post office box in a neighboring country
Since you will likely be out of the postal network, you should devise a way to get mail when you go to town.
Step 5. Be ready to adapt the use of water
During periods of less sunlight or wind, you may have to flush water, use the shower or wash clothes less frequently.
Step 6. Consider opening a farm
Planting your plants and storing food can help you avoid going shopping in the country. It also optimizes costs and gives satisfaction.
