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A First Nation in central British Columbia will build what the federal government says will likely be the largest off-grid solar project in Canada.

Nearly $16 million in federal and provincial funding is going toward the solar farm in Anahim Lake, home to the Ulkatcho First Nation, where power is currently diesel-generated.

Amid a global energy crisis where demand often outstrips supply, off-grid power systems are gaining significant traction. The limitations of traditional grid power, such as capacity constraints, lack of transmission infrastructure in remote areas, and the increasing electricity demand, have pushed many companies towards exploring alternative off-grid solutions. This shift toward off-grid power is not driven by convenience; it’s in critical response to the evolving landscape where energy independence is pivotal.

By definition, living off-the-grid means you’re not physically hooked up to public utilities, like electricity, sewer, water or a telephone line. People chose to live off-grid for a multitude of reasons. Some opt for a self-sufficient lifestyle and the freedom to escape urban living. Living off-grid offers a more sustainable, affordable lifestyle and the opportunity to use renewable energy.

Who said that tiny homes equipped for off-grid living can only be rough and rugged? The gorgeous Luan tiny looks every bit as stylish and modern as its more conventional counterparts, and even exudes a luxurious vibe despite being a low-budget model.

The couple have a sign at their house reading “Simple Life,” which they’ve hung ironically.  “People always think that if you live in the bush in a cabin you’re living this beautiful, simple life,” Marrone said. “It is beautiful, but it is absolutely anything but simple.” The isolation takes some getting used to, living in a cabin in the woods is more expensive than some people might assume, and off-grid living takes a lot of hard work, but Marrone considers it all to have been a worthwhile dream fulfillment. 

In an age characterized by hyper-connectivity and rapid technological advancements, a growing number of millennials and Gen Z individuals are seeking a different way of life. They are looking beyond the bustling cityscapes and traditional 9-to-5 office jobs, opting instead for a more off-grid lifestyle. 

Budgeting for the off-grid essentials is one thing, but planning for the hidden costs is harder. Three years in, the savings in rent and utilities alone have already paid for the cost of the property itself. But there were also plenty of big purchases as we set up our homestead. 

Moving off-grid is obviously a big change. What drives anyone to make such a big shift? A healthy shove from the weirdness of 2020 and COVID lockdown obviously helps. 

Energy security and the energy transition has been catapulted into the limelight over the last year, and the idea of living off the grid has grown to become quite fashionable. People like to talk about it, but few actually go ahead and do it. Why? Because it's a challenge. Actually, it's a series of challenges, and while a challenge or two adds spice to life, not everyone is ready to tackle the multiple challenges of off-grid living.