Grid Free Living

What exactly is Grid Free Living? There are a lot of different ways to describe what this means, but I'm going to keep it simple. Grid Free Living means your home's electrical power is supplied by something other than the county electrical grid. This would also of course mean that you don't have a monthly electric bill! Confused? Don't be. This is how over 200k Americans currently live and that number is growing each year.

How does someone actually do this? Grid Free Living can be accomplished through a few different avenues. The most common methods used to do this is through the use of solar/wind energy and solar water heaters. Solar panels and wind turbines are fantastic for creating free electricity and solar water heater systems are a phenomenal at heating water.

Can I do this? Are you aware that over 40 states allow you to actually "feed the grid" (county/public that is) with the excess electricity you're producing? Why do that? These states have programs set up that will track the amount of energy you produce and will actually PAY YOU $$ each month. Go back and read that again. No, this isn't something only reserved for retired electrical engineers that have lots of time and money. This is something an average homeowner can accomplish with a little ambition and willingness to learn.

OK, what's next? Well obviously, becoming educated on the subjects that surround Grid Free Living would be a great start. There are many subjects such as, solar panels, home wind turbines, and solar water heaters that need to be understood before making a decision about the subject. The website at the bottom of this article is a great start.

What about the Do-It-Yourself route? Great choice! In my personal research, I've came across many instructional guides out there that cover the subjects of building home solar panel system, home wind turbines, and solar water heaters. I will warn you to, that there are many GOOD ones and a few that could be "left alone", if you know what I mean.

How much does something like this cost? I knew you'd ask that! There are companies that install various types of alternative energy systems like these that can run anywhere from $2k on up. It all depends of course on the size and quality of the system, which is largely determined by the size of your home and energy needs. However, there is the ever popular, do-it-yourself route. The guides that I've personally reviewed usually offer instructions on how to build solar panels and home wind turbines for around $200; solar water heaters for the same amount. The guides themselves can cost anywhere from $30-$100 and I've found these to be packed full of valuable information.

Still reading? Can I assume I've peaked your interest? Regardless, the next most important step outside of educating yourself on the subject is to develop an energy conservation /green mindset. We're talking about more than recycling your cans and changing a few light bulbs in the house. This is where we learn to be aware of the energy we are using at all times. Pretend you are already living off the grid. If that was the case, you would be aware of how many lights are on in rooms that have no one in them. How long you keep the fridge door open. How many loads of wash you are doing. You get the idea. This practice will prepare you and eventually save you money long term when installing your own system by giving you the option of a smaller system. You made it! Ok, well I hope this inspired you to further look into the idea of Grid Free Living.