Different images come to mind when we hear the phrase "living off the Grid." Some think of the hippie-style homesteader. Others think of an ultra-modern home on the side of a beautiful mountain. In most cases, living off the grid falls somewhere in between.

New Frontiers

Modern technology has made it possible for people to live comfortably where it was not possible just a few decades ago.

The single most important technological advancement that has allowed people to live a normal life off the grid is the work done in the solar and wind power industries. Solar electric power has made it possible for people living far from the electric grid to have phones, computers, electric lights and many other modern appliances.

Not all appliances work well with solar electricity but solar-friendly substitutes are available. The advancements made in energy efficient electronic devices have also contributed to the ability to live comfortably off the grid. Laptops, for example, are more energy efficient than desktop computers and solar electric systems have no problem powering them up.

There is a lot of information online to help with planning a solar electric system (https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/planning-home-solar-electric-system)
for an off-the-grid home.

Cell phones are another convenience that have allowed people to move far into the country. If a cell phone tower is anywhere near your off-the-grid location, you will be able to find a phone that works well with it.

Smart phone service gives you access to the internet. Although your remote location is far from the utility grid, you can connect with the outside world - if and when you want to.


Getting Started

Most people start by finding and buying the piece of land on which they want to build their new life. The beauty of the land and the scenery are just a few of the considerations that need to be taken into account.

If you plan to have farm animals, such as chickens, goats or horses, check with the local water department. There may be ordinances regarding how much land or what type of well is needed to water animals or raise a good-sized vegetable garden.

As mentioned before, investigate the phone, internet and TV service. Even people who love to be far from the crowded cities still need to dial 9-1-1 for emergency services when an ambulance or the fire department is needed.


Water and Sewer

An off-the-grid home will not be connected to these utilities so provisions must be made. Talking to the local well-drilling services will give you a good idea of how much water you can expect from a well that you have drilled. Also check with the local water department to learn their requirements.

Do the same with companies that install sewer systems. Once the locations of the well and sewer systems are determined, then you will know where your house should be located.


The Off-the-Grid Lifestyle

Many who choose to follow this path also plan to incorporate healthier eating into their lifestyle. This involves growing a garden and raising livestock. People usually start with a dozen chickens. They feed their food scraps to the chickens and, in exchange, the chickens give them fresh eggs. It's a wonderful symbiotic relationship.

The remote locations associated with off-the-grid living usually includes plenty of fresh air. Far from the city, one can find virgin fields and woods that draw you out into their beauty and serenity. However, wild animals enjoy those places, too, so respect for them and the dangers they impose should be considered.

Off-the-grid gardening(http://www.offthegridnews.com/survival-gardening-2/its-the-pain-free-and-overlooked-technique-to-a-bigger-garden-yield/) is almost always part of the experience. Soil conditions should be tested and improvements made, such as with composting, to get the most out of your garden space and the time you invest.

However, the quiet hours in the garden are a reward in itself. There is something therapeutic about nurturing flowers and vegetables in a serene environment that tends to cure the body, mind and soul.

Living off the grid is a wonderful experience. If you feel called to give it a try, we encourage you. Today's hectic, fast-paced world has alienated us from the intimate relationship we used to have with the land, sun and air.

Being close to nature does not have to be limited to a 2-week vacation. It's now possible to live an off-the-grid lifestyle all year long.