Living Off-the-Grid with Solar Energy

This might be an extreme way of living in today’s society, but there are several places in Northern Canada with people and communities living the so-called “off-the-grid” lifestyle with major help from solar energy. Solar energy is playing a major role in the conservation of energy and the elimination of our carbon footprint already, but how is it impacting people trying to live a minimal and simple life?

Here is what we found about communities doing exactly that:

Extreme Living Situation

In Northern British Columbia, Canada, a family of seven is living off-the-grid and is utilizing solar energy to do so. Although, their solar energy system isn’t powering everything in their home. They do use solar to power several utilities in their home to reduce cost and energy.

They have two solar systems, which include one that generates 12-volt power to power lights, and smaller electronics. The other solar system is a 2.5-Kilowatt system located on their roof with a lithium ion battery bank to power the fridge, chest freezer, washing machine, mixer, blender and toaster. A backup generator is used but only when needed during cloudy and snowy seasons.

Life Off Grid

In 2016, a documentary was released about several individuals and families that are essentially living off the land all around Canada. Life Off Grid is a film that tells the tale of real people who have chosen to live their lives utilizing renewable energy.

What does Off-the-Grid Living Mean?

When it comes to solar energy and living off the grid, these people are generating their own energy, which means they aren’t using the commercial electrical grid in Canada. In the documentary, these people explain why they are doing this, and how it has been challenging, yet ultimately rewarding in the long run. Most of the people that were interviewed have similar views of the electrical grid. They would accept the invitation of being on the grid if it didn’t cost them any expenses. They’re using solar systems of their own to power their entire lives, which allows them to not need the commercial grid.

When you’re self-sufficient, you realize what is most important in life. The material world seems very unnecessary when money is a major priority.

What Does this Have to Do with Solar Companies?

A company like Pope Energy specializes in the production and maintenance of photovoltaic solar projects around the Northeast. We provide system owners, farmers, commercial real estate owners and landowners with a solar system where they can save money on energy and help the environment. Although living off-the-grid can be an extreme way of living, there are ways to save on energy costs, help the environment, and live better by investing in solar power. Pope Energy believes this and is dedicated to helping those get to that point. Contact us at 855-767-3363 today to learn more about our solar services and products!