Frequently Asked Questions

 Being "off the grid" means not being connected to public utilities, such as the electrical grid, water, gas, or heat. Off-grid homes are self-sufficient and rely on their own energy sources. These sources can include: Solar power, Wind, Small-scale hydropower, Septic tank, Field bed, Outhouse, Propane, or a Composting toilet. Living 100% Off-Grid is not easy, you are 100% in charge of your infrastructure. It requires hard work and dedication and is not a free ride.

 Clean freshwater is essential for life. It's used for drinking, sanitation, agriculture, livestock, industry, and recreation. Clean water also supports ecosystems and helps prevent disease. Having a good well on site is much better than having to haul your water. Test your water for bacteria and contaminants frequently. Clean pure water is life.
 

Solar energy is the energy generated by the sun. It can be converted into electricity or used directly for heating and lighting purposes.  Solar energy can be harnessed using a variety of technologies, categorized as either active or passive.

Solar panels are installed on your roof or property. These panels absorb the sun's energy and convert it into DC electricity. A solar inverter then converts the DC electricity into AC electricity, which is used to power your home.

 Yes, if you want uninterruptible  power. Days of autonomy refers to the number of days a stand-alone power system can rely on its batteries before needing a fuel generator. Two days of autonomy means the batteries can provide continuous energy for two days without charging. Three to five days of autonomy is generally considered standard. I started with a gasoline powered construction unit and switched to a propane powered unit recently to eliminate hauling and storing gasoline.