PART TIME GREEN - Living off the grid
Living off the grid
Let get some things straight
Posted by Staff on January 19, 2009 12:46 pm
Off the grid is not for everyone. We can’t be sure how long
our non-renewable resources will remain resources.
What other options exist?
What Is Living Off the Grid?
Living off grid is the term “off grid” in relation to housing, simply means
you’re not using grid power. You’re creating your own energy
such as heating and cooling.
Renewable Energy:
As solar and wind-turbine technology improve,
it will become cheaper and easier for homeowners to provide much of
their own electricity. Use
both solar and wind, as the two energy sources are complementary — when
the sun isn't shining, the wind often blows and vice versa.
Benefits of Living Off Grid
No more electricity bills
No ongoing dependency on the utility grid.
You’ll be lowering your carbon footprint
Cons of Living Off Grid
Start up costs: While you almost positively will save
money in the long run, in the short term start up costs for alternative
energy systems can be high.
See Wiki
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Off-the-grid
For more information see:
A how-to handbook to free yourself from the constraints of modern living.
In
daily life, we can take control of the resources and services we depend
on. Electricity and energy don't have to come off the public utility
grid—alternatives abound in solar, wind, and water generated power.
Design decisions can drastically affect power consumption, and
bio-diesel and alternative fuels can help break the oil habit. Dave
Black describes alternatives for eco-pimping your home and lifestyle
for independence, economy, and a more integrated way of life. Equally
valuable for the urban dweller vaguely concerned about the size of his
or her carbon footprint and the rural self-sufficiency enthusiast, Living Off the Grid can help anyone take control of his or her life and way of living. 50 b/w photographs.
>>Living off the Grid: A Simple Guide to Creating and Maintaining a Self-Reliant Supply of Energy, Water, Shelter and More