How did you set up your kit, and where have you got it installed?
So the batteries etc are all inside in my bedroom wardrobe. Easy to access and see what’s going on. Solar panels are on the north facing roof.
It was all installed by my electrician.
How did you choose your kit, and did you have to adapt your power habits to it?
I have been living off grid for the last 5 years but on a very basic level. Didn't have to adapt to much. Nice having power points etc. I have a 48sqm house. One bedroom and it’s just me living there. I don’t have many appliances so went with tiny house.
What are you running on your kit? What are you not running?
So I have a composting loo which has a fan running 24 hrs a day and I have it on a really low wattage and my small camping fridge runs all the time too. I will be getting a small fridge freezer at some stage. Lights etc all run on solar too. My oven is all gas. Hot water is gas also. A wood burner to heat the house.
What was it that appealed to you about living off-grid? Why did you choose this lifestyle?
I like the fact I have very few monthly bills. I like the simple way of life.
Why did you choose to have a tiny home? Did you build it yourself or buy it?
I have lived in a converted 20ft container for the last three years, so upgrading to a small house suited me. It’s great having everything under the same roof!
My log house was built by Natural Habitat Homes. Logs imported from USA. Dead standing Engelman spruce.
What challenges have you faced along the way?
I live in Twizel so we get a lot of fog in the winter, so I did have to run my generator for parts of the day and to charge the batteries but I knew I would have to do that with the shorter day light hours.
Why did you choose solar over a generator or mains power?
Mainly to be self sufficient. I have solar and the back up of the generator.
Why did you choose GridFree over another company? How did you find us?
I did lots of research and got solar quotes but all came back expensive for what I was wanting. This was so easy and straight forward.
What’s been the best part of going solar and being off-grid in general? How has your life changed?
Everything is easy to use and I have power when ever I want it with out the on going bills.
What’s the next step in your off-grid journey?
I'm happy with where I am for now!
Do you have any advice to other people that are planning to go off-grid?
Definitely do it. Well worth it.
