How do I build my home off the grid on raw land

8/12/2012 at 9:29:10 PM

Check this http://www.magnacoaster.com/magna/index.html might help you with power problem.

8/13/2012 at 10:31:02 AM

Jared,

Each method has its own merits. A client of mine has a combination of a generater and solar. He has looked into wind but the consistency doesn't appear to be good enough for a small operation.

Geothermal also has its issues. I'd suggest approaching major suppliers of all sources that interest you and look at their benefits and payback (time it takes to realize return on the investment).

Some factors to consider are where you are, (hills, mountains, flat land, etc), Type of ground depth (rock, soil clay, mixed), and weather conditions (general). All the method of generating power have potential but not all are practical. Each area that you check into will offer you the benefits and why their products are the best, but some will also supply the pros & cons. Take the time to do the research for your needs.

Remember, there is more to it than just the initial unit (i.e. solar panels & batteries).

The client I mentioned is also keeping an open ming for other combinations. As the materials become less costly it's may be to your advantage to keep your ideas open.

Wish I could say more but you are doing the right thing by asking before you buy.

Good luck.

8/13/2012 at 11:52:08 AM

Wow!! A tall order if you want the convenience of electricity. However It can be achieved. You need to search for a source. The best I have heard is some guys in Australia have come up with a power plant that run on its own power. Or you can go all solar or wind mill. You have lots of options these days. Just have to spend the time researching.

Your home can be built the same as a normal house except you should pay strict attention to energy saving Items and the best in insulation.

Hope this helps.

Good Luck,

David

8/14/2012 at 9:05:48 AM

50K is a large number, but if your goal is money driven then that is the best route. You won't have any maintenance or equipment to ever replace once the power is in, and resale is much easier and possibly higher.

If saving the planet is your motivation, then go that route. Off grid houses need to be very efficent and have low power consumption, compared to traditional homes. Wind power will not work in every area, so you need to check that first. Solar with batteries to run a house will run around 100k. Geothermal is great, however the power needs are similar to running an AC unit year round. So you need to consider that when calculateing your power needs.

Depending on the type of system, geothermal runs 25-50k. All these prices are general and will vary wildly, depending on your location, type and size of system, etc. You willl need to do a lot of reaserch your self, to figure out what works best for you.

Don't take any one companies word as gosspil truth. Going green is not cheap, if it was, it would be more common.

1/27/2013 at 3:34:10 PM

Hi Jared,

A business associate of mine has built a ' passive home ' in Toronto. It has no furnace - cool in the summer, warm in the winter months.

PS - I will be doing the same as you within the next two years ( building my own off-the-grid home )

Best wishes !

Glenn Durkin

SPICA Construction Management

647-875-9656