For some people, an unavoidable worst case scenario will come to mind when thinking about the realities of off-grid living. On a good day, they might get to devour whatever slim pickings they’ve managed to harvest while foraging. As for the facilities?! Don’t even remind them about having to bathe daily in an ice cold stream!
In reality, all of this is a million miles from what can now be achieved thanks to incredible advances in off-grid technology. Whether you’re a hardy type who wants to pit yourself against nature, or a more mainstream adventurer, the lure of sustainable living shouldn’t mean sacrificing all modern trappings. Ultimately, even those who have rejected the excesses of city living will enjoy no-frills amenities like heating and clean water.
In this blog we’ll plunge headfirst into the very latest off-grid technologies. You’ll soon realise that being comfortable, cosy, and completely off-grid is surprisingly achievable.
4 Fabulous Forms of Off-Grid Technology
If you’re excited about the possibilities of sustainable living but also expect convenience, there are tons of interesting options out there. From sources of alternative power to world-class water filtration systems, a plethora of off-grid technologies have been designed to make your new life a literal walk in the park.
The following solutions show that you can make positive changes to your habits without compromising on quality of life:
Solar Panels
Solar power is one of the most popular off-grid technologies for good reason. Because energy independence and sustainability are two of the biggest drivers for investing in this growing movement, solar energy excels by offering tangible benefits for both. If you want to enjoy cost-effective energy solutions, this is the way to go.
The full benefits include:
- Energy Independence: With fuel bills constantly rising, more and more people are looking for ways to achieve financial independence. Solar panels can remove your reliance on the traditional grid, regardless of where a shipping container is situated.
- Savings: Although installation isn’t always cheap, you could reap the benefits in the long-term. In some cases, you might even be able to say “goodbye” to energy bills altogether.
- Eco-Friendliness: Keen to reduce your carbon footprint? Solar energy is one of the cleanest forms of renewable energy around.
- Adaptability: If space is a problem, don’t worry. Solar panels are extremely adaptable, and can be fitted on roofs or side walls, depending on where the most space can be found.
- Reliability: You could be forgiven for wondering if the UK’s iffy weather could affect power supplies. However, this form of off-grid technology can be paired with traditional batteries, offering a reliable power source even when the dark clouds refuse to budge.
- Easy to Maintain: Once they’re up, solar powers are very low maintenance. This makes them a hassle-free option.
Air Conditioning
One concern for people who are curious about sustainable living is temperature control — especially during those balmy summer months. The latest shipping containers make light work of these worries, as they’re kitted out with the latest off-grid technologies, such as powerful air conditioning units. Crucially, they often run off alternative power sources, like solar and wind, making them almost as beneficial for mother nature as they are for their owners.
Complete Connectivity
The very best shipping container spaces offer a unique balance of comfort and serenity. However, when you’ve got every possible convenience, from electric shutters to air con, you’ll also need a slick and seamless way to stay in control. That’s where the likes of Live Off-Grid’s class-leading Smart Container Hub comes in.
A leading new off-grid technology, this handy little app is packed with amazing features. It can preheat your living space, schedule air con and lighting, control your shutters, and more. In effect, it’s got everything you could possibly need to create the environment you want, just when you want it.
Internet
Worried that living among the elements means you won’t be able to check social media or binge your favourite shows? Your fears may be unfounded. The reality is that there are a few options for keeping connected off-grid, from basic suggestions like smartphones to more ambitious alternatives such as satellite internet.
If this is one of your priorities, it’s best to check coverage before you settle down. You should find that all but the most remote areas have a signal you can use. Once established, you can choose from the following:
- Mobile Phone: With a strong signal you can use your phone’s data to perform basic tasks, such as browsing, shopping, and replying to messages. If you need to use your laptop, you might even be able to use your phone as a hotspot. However, there could be fairly strict data limits, so if you’re heavily dependent on being online, you might need a big package or a little more oomph.
- Fixed Broadband: Although it can be slower than a phone — and will depend upon availability — some internet providers will install an antenna that you can connect with via a typical Wi-Fi router.
- Wireless Hub: If you don’t want your connection to be dependent on a power generator, this could be a life-saving form of off-grid technology. The reason? It uses powerful lithium batteries that act as a backup if the main power supply has a problem.
- Satellite Internet: If all else fails, satellite might be your last remaining option. It’s not the fastest — and it won’t be unlimited — but it could provide everything you need to keep online in small doses.
Water Filtration Systems
There’s no doubt that the ever-expanding range of water filtration systems are some of the most essential off-grid technologies. The latest gadgets use elements like gravity, UV, and ceramics to filter and purify natural sources, leading to clean, safe drinking water for you and your family. And many of them are compact and portable, so you can enjoy a refreshing drink wherever the wanderlust has taken you.
You Can Have it All With Live Off-Grid
It’s clear that pursuing a natural lifestyle doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort and convenience. There are already a whole raft of exciting forms of off-grid technology out there — and this march of progress refuses to slow down. However, not everyone will want to install boilers and WiFi themselves. Some people demand a ready-made dream home that is already equipped with the latest mod cons, fittings, and gadgets.
Live Off-Grid came into existence with one singular purpose — to help people reset, recharge, and reconnect with nature. Driven by this restless spirit, we’ve harnessed the amazing potential of repurposed shipping containers. In the process, we’ve transformed these sturdy metal frames into a stunning range of fully-functional — and highly-desirable — living spaces.
Because they can be stacked and interlocked in countless ways, the only limit to what our units can do is your imagination. Our biggest container home, the Saturn, is a perfect case in point. Two units combined, it boasts full electrical installation and plumbing, two sizable bedrooms, modern fittings, and plenty more besides. All in a stylishly spacious, portable package.
Our lines come fitted with the latest off-grid technologies, from LED lighting to underfloor heating and air con. So wherever you roam, you’ll always be home.
To find out more about how Live Off-Grid could be your passport to a rewarding new life — without compromise — get in touch today.
