So, you’re thinking of learning how to live off the grid? You’ve come to the right place. Here at Searose Environmental, understanding and educating on off-grid power solutions is one of our primary passions. In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know about going off the grid in Australia.
As the costs and pressures of modern living increase, we see many people looking towards sustainable and traditional practices to increase their quality of life and reduce their environmental footprint. More and more people want to live off the grid, and there are even whole communities living completely off the grid.
Living off the grid means eliminating dependence on everyday utilities such as (gas, electricity and water) and being self-sufficient. At Searose Environmental, we are expert designers and engineers of off grid energy solutions. Whether you are looking for solar panel installation, battery storage solutions or hydrogen fuel cells, we’ve got you covered with all energy requirements to facilitate off grid living in Australia.
The Importance of Learning How to Live Off the Grid
There are many reasons for one to consider going and living off grid. Whether you live in a remote area and lack a stable source of electricity or are looking to increase your energy security and use of renewables in an urban setting, going off grid can provide a solution for a variety of Australians. The increase in flexible and remote working arrangements has allowed professionals to live on their own terms. There has never been a better time to live off the grid. For many, all that is required for their job is a laptop and a stable internet connection. Why live in a cramped and chaotic environment, worrying about your energy bills when you can take charge of your situation and live off the grid?
Australia also has one of the most suitable climates for living off the grid, with an abundance of solar energy and accompanying technology at increasingly affordable prices. To further incentivise transferring to renewable energy, State and Federal Governments offer financial assistance packages to help households and businesses invest in renewable energy solutions.
How to Have Electricity Off the Grid
The next question you’ll likely have about living off grid is “how can I have electricity off the grid?”. Which is fair enough – while you’re choosing to detach from the mains electricity grid, you don’t want to be living like a caveman.
Fret not – there are plenty of ways to generate electricity off the grid. At Searose Environmental, we are the leading experts in renewable, environmental energy and off grid power. The advances in renewable energy and the accessibility to technology has made it easier than ever before to go off the grid.
Solar power is a great way to produce your own renewable electricity. Solar energy utilises the energy from the sun and the photovoltaic effect to produce electrical energy. A typical solar system consists of a solar panel that generates electrical energy and an inverter, making the energy usable for domestic applications.
The key piece of technology to be aware of when learning how to live off the grid would be a solar battery. Solar battery storage has made significant advances in recent years and is necessary for off grid living Australia or when setting up an off-grid house. These batteries will store the excess energy produced from your solar panels so you can use it later on. This is particularly useful to generate electricity at night when the solar panels don’t convert electricity. For larger-scale solutions, you may also consider a hydrogen fuel cell for your property.
When considering going off grid, it’s important to think about how much energy you will require and how you plan on generating it. The size and output of your chosen technology will also impact the initial costs required to ensure you can sustainably live off the grid. On the other hand, if you find yourself generating more electricity than you need, you could consider feeding back into the grid and providing yourself with a system that not only pays for itself but supports you financially in the long run too.
Want to Live in an Off Grid House? Here’s What You Need to Know
In Australia, it is legal to live off the grid. In fact, the Federal Government may even afford you different incentives if you choose to live this lifestyle. An example of this is the small-scale renewable energy scheme which provides financial rebates for individuals installing small scale renewable energy systems such as solar panels, water heaters and pumps. Individual states also have their own initiatives. In Queensland, eligible homeowners can apply for grants or interest-free loans when purchasing solar systems or battery storage solutions.
Although it isn’t illegal to live off the grid, councils will have their own laws regarding zoning allocations and building laws. You will need to make sure that your house and land are all above board before deciding to live off the grid.
How to Live Off the Grid and Make Money: Eco-Tourism
The rise in our collective consciousness of sustainable practices and how our everyday habits impact our natural environment has seen a rise in eco-tourism. Especially in Australia, where beautiful wild landscapes are abundant, more people are seeking off-grid experiences. Part of the allure of these holidays is living or staying off the grid and away from everyone else. If you are a holiday operator and wish to provide your locations with essential and luxury options, the renewable energy solutions discussed above could be key in helping you set up your operations.
While there may be an initial investment required, the long-term advantages in offering an environmentally friendly and sustainable property can provide significant value. You will effectively have accommodation that both powers itself and makes you money!
Learn How to Live Off the Grid in a Tiny House
Heard the hype around living in a tiny house?
There has been a rise in the number of tiny houses across the country. Tiny houses refer to efficiently designed dwellings that incorporate all the essential functionalities of a house in as little space as possible. Some are even designed to be portable and fit on the back of a trailer. Whether they are fixed or portable, owning a tiny house can be a great way to escape the craziness of the urban environment or find comfort in a peaceful remote location. With the increased availability of remote working conditions, it wouldn’t be surprising if the popularity of these off grid houses’ increases.
Small scale buildings such as these are incredibly energy-efficient and a great way of learning how to live off the grid. Their compact nature reduces the energy needs for lighting, heating and general running costs. Implementing an efficient small scale solar system and battery storage would provide an adequate amount of power with the right design and professional consideration.
Learn More About Our Off Grid Power Solutions Today
At Searose Environmental, we can assist properties of all sizes in finding the off grid power solutions without depriving comfort or peace of mind. We are experts in providing off grid power solutions so that more Australians can benefit from complete independence. Our solutions will help you eliminate expensive electricity running costs and reduce your impact on the environment. Whether you live in a remote, rural or urban environment, we will use our 40 years of experience to provide the best-off grid solutions for your site.
If you want to know more about how to live off the grid with our renewable energy solutions, get in touch with our expert team on 1300 48 48 49 or make an enquiry through our website.