Below, we’re unpacking the what, why and how of off-grid living – and pondering whether it’s possible in the inner suburbs. Is it legal? Is it advised? And what can you do to ensure your home is as energy efficient as possible?

 

Defining off-grid living

Where does your mind wander when you hear the phrase “off the grid”?

A caravan in the secluded countryside? A log cabin in a faraway forest?

These are the images that the concept of autonomous living tends to conjure. The technical definition, though? Independence from public utilities: gas, water, electricity and sewerage.

Where you sit on the spectrum of self-sufficiency is up to you. Some Australians (around 2%) do commit to complete isolation and autonomy. But many more are taking smaller steps – like installing renewable energy systems – to increase their independence.

 

What’s the big idea?

Off-grid living is nothing new. So what’s driving the shift toward independence from public infrastructure?

Going off the grid is no longer the lifestyle overhaul it once was. The tools and technology to transition to independent living are more accessible – and more popular – than ever. That’s why we’ve seen Australia’s solar power capacity triple since 2015.

Consciousness for our climate is growing. So more people are happy to forego a few conveniences for a sustainable lifestyle.

The cost of living is climbing, too – and as life tightens its pinch on the hip pocket, the appeal of going off the grid continues to increase.

That’s not to say autonomous living comes cost-free – and the upfront expenses for solar panels and other standalone systems aren’t to be scoffed at. But once you’re set up, you should enjoy significant long-term savings. Along with more control over your circumstances.

 

The law and your location

Going off the grid is synonymous with simplicity. But it isn’t completely without complexities – and there are still legal considerations to keep in mind.

You’ll need to get the all-clear from your council, for starters. The further you branch out, the more realistic it becomes to do things your own way.

That’s why off-grid purists prefer “no permit zones”, which give you a greater chance of complete control over your set up. The only trade-off is that these areas can be quite remote: meaning you won’t be as close to schools, stores and workplaces.

Urban areas have more restrictive planning and permission processes. So, is setting up a self-sufficient lifestyle in the suburbs possible?

Yes – to an extent.

You’ll be bound by the rulebook. But it might give you the best of both worlds – increased independence without sacrificing creature comforts.

 

Exiting the electrical grid

Sourcing your own electricity is your gateway to getting off the grid. It’s the most impactful measure for a sustainable lifestyle – and the most viable one for suburban living.

The usual set-up consists of solar panels, batteries and a backup generator – all of which are becoming increasingly affordable. They’re easy to integrate into most homes, too: whether they’re in the metropolis or the middle of nowhere.

 

Power-saving practices

If you’ve got your own power supply in place, you’ll want to watch your electricity usage. Here are a few small steps that go a long way to preserving your power:

• When it comes to burning energy, climate control is a major culprit. So try to hold off on the heater and air conditioner. Instead, fire up the fans in summer, rug up in winter and ensure your home is properly insulated.
• Opt for LED lights. They require 75% less electricity than traditional incandescent lightbulbs. They also last about 25 times longer and don’t contain mercury.
• Appliances like computers, televisions, dishwashers, phone chargers and microwaves all hog electricity – even when they’re on standby. Unplug these when you’re not using them.
• Changing the way you clean your clothes can be a serious power saver. Cold wash them. Hang them on the line. And don’t leave wasted space in your machine!
• Select the eco setting on any of your appliances that offer it. Even if they don’t, you can always make some adjustments yourself – like dimming screens and bumping up your fridge temperature.
• It’s also worth investing in a solid battery system to store excess electricity. You can tap into this surplus when the sun isn’t shining. Or give it back to the grid to pick up some pocket money.

 

Sourcing your sustenance

Suburban homes might not offer the space to produce all your food, nor the vicinity to freshwater streams. But since we’re talking about the suburbs, grocery stores are in the equation – so food will be readily available.

Still, you can supplement your diet with delights from your patch of fresh produce. Choose plants that thrive in your climate and put them in an area with good drainage where they can soak up the sun.

Paired with the right filtration system, rainwater tanks offer a safe solution for drinking water. And water-saving fittings for your sinks and showers help you make the most of every drop.

 

The big question: can you do it?

Is it possible to go completely off the grid in the inner suburbs? Probably not.

Can you take steps towards a sustainable, self-sufficient lifestyle? Absolutely!

It can be a complex commitment. And your lifestyle modifications might not amount to hardcore off-grid habitation. But they will make a positive difference.

To you – and your environment.