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04 September 2016

A Life Worth Living, Living Off The Grid

By Harold Stevens


With the high prices of mortgage and rent, many individuals are now looking to become more mobile. As part of the process, a number of individuals are looking to obtain private land. For, if done right, an individual can live off the land while living off the grid. Individuals must decide at any given time, whether one remains off-grid when using tools such as cell phones and other electronic devices.

In some areas, this is accomplished by sharing communal natural resources such as solar panels, windmills and hydro systems. In others, individuals and families live near water sources, while using a generator to create an electrical current. In all cases, if there is no connection to a public utility, cable or satellite station, then the term off-gridder generally applies.

After the publication Today reported approximately one hundred and eighty thousand families were already living this lifestyle, the idea became quite popular. For, statistics now show that this number has jumped over 33% in less than a decade. Many third world citizens have not had a chance, or do not have a choice when it comes to living in this manner. As a result, worldwide statistics now show these numbers to be closer to one and a half billion.

In places like California, the state is asking citizens to use solar and wind rather than fossil fuels or water. For, the drought has also eliminated a great deal of the water supply in the state. As such, wind, solar and fossil fuels are now the most common alternatives used by California residents. Whereas, hydro fuel cell, and wave are still being investigated as to how big an impact each might have on the alternative energy market.

With the main focus being sustainability, there are many other reasons an individual might want to become an off-gridder. For example, there are a number of intentional communities based on common interest. While this is the case, there may be differing feelings about renewable energy sources. As such, these individuals can live in a community while still creating energy from a number of different sources. Whereas, if the group desires to share solar panels, wind turbines or energy derived from a hydro source, then that too is an option.

Whether a group based on lifestyle, common interest, religion or other factors, these communities are often successful. For, by the time individuals decide on living this lifestyle, most have already been friends, or in groups with those that will become neighbors. As such, unlike traditional neighborhoods, there is often far less friction between neighbors.

Generally, groups of this nature are going to have a focus on climate change, the environment and social justice. In others, there may be religious ties which bring people together. The one common thread among all of these groups is a shared desire to live in a community with like minded people.

Others reside in this way due to cost, availability, to reduce carbon footprints, save money and survive. One other reason people give for desiring to become an off-gridder is to prepare for an economic collapse. When it comes to those concerned with World War III or the apocalypse, these individuals often set up alternative energy sources while also stockpiling food and other necessities.




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