Ask an Expert
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JULY 2023 TOPIC: Living Off-Grid: Tips and Advice
T'Alyne
Artist, Environmentalist & Expert on Off-Grid Living |
OUR EXPERT:
T'Alyne is an abstract artist and environmentalist currently living and working in a zero-emissions, off-grid solar home and solar-powered art studio in the mountains of Southern Colorado. She is interested in balance and environmental stewardship as well as modeling a positive impact for an ecologically conscientious way of life. T'Alyne shares: "Environmental awareness and protecting our natural resources are crucial if we are to survive. As a culture, we are too busy to notice the delicacy of this complete system of life. Through my work as an artist, I see the opportunities to highlight these subtle spaces that balance and support our natural environment. It is crucial that we attend to the beauty, tranquility and serenity in order to return to the center of balance. When we take care of our planet, we impact ourselves in a positive way." T'Alyne and her husband, Harry Anderson, are the proud hosts of an off-grid Airbnb located four miles west of Trinidad, Colorado. Its sweeping views of the surrounding canyons and mountains as well as its tranquil environment continually delight guests. |
“Do you have to have full sun exposure for solar panels to do their job well? We’ve heard from others that they didn’t experience the savings they thought they would. Do solar farms do the trick if you don’t have the money to invest? I’ve also heard it takes a long time to make the money back on the equipment.” ~ A.T. (OH)
Dear A.T.,
The more sun exposure the better. Where we live, we receive 360 days of sunshine. It’s the sunniest place in Colorado. On average, we might have to use our backup generator (approximately five days a year).
Concerning the equipment…
As far as the equipment is concerned, the price has come down significantly to buy it outright and continues to. The solar panels are very inexpensive.
Concerning solar farms…
It all depends on how much sun you have in your area. That’s the main point. Solar farms are a good idea in sunny areas. They work very well. In fact, the woman who pioneered solar farms lives in Westminster Colorado.
“I’ve heard that some places don’t allow you to disconnect off the power grid entirely. Is this true?” ~ Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
That’s true if you are tied to the grid. Each state has its own laws regarding utilities. In Colorado, our laws are net metering, which means if the customer produces more power than they need, then the power company is required to buy the excess power back from the customer.
Off-grid is a totally different story. We are fully independent from any municipalities.
“Off-grid living has always fascinated me, but how hard is it? Can your expert explain how long it took to set everything up?” ~ Lynn (PA)
Dear Lynn,
It is easy. Things are only as difficult as you make it. Off-grid living is a quiet, peaceful and stress-free life.
Setting it up took a couple of months. It took some research and phone calls.
“I am attracted to the perceived health benefits of remote living. In your experience, what is the best thing about living off-grid?” ~ Donna
Dear Donna,
There are many benefits to living off-grid. There are no electric or water bills, yet we have all the modern conveniences. We enjoy the freedom and flexibility of being totally independent and self-sufficient. We also enjoy being surrounded by the beautiful natural world. It is the best feeling to live in a calm and peaceful environment.
Dear A.T.,
The more sun exposure the better. Where we live, we receive 360 days of sunshine. It’s the sunniest place in Colorado. On average, we might have to use our backup generator (approximately five days a year).
Concerning the equipment…
As far as the equipment is concerned, the price has come down significantly to buy it outright and continues to. The solar panels are very inexpensive.
Concerning solar farms…
It all depends on how much sun you have in your area. That’s the main point. Solar farms are a good idea in sunny areas. They work very well. In fact, the woman who pioneered solar farms lives in Westminster Colorado.
“I’ve heard that some places don’t allow you to disconnect off the power grid entirely. Is this true?” ~ Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
That’s true if you are tied to the grid. Each state has its own laws regarding utilities. In Colorado, our laws are net metering, which means if the customer produces more power than they need, then the power company is required to buy the excess power back from the customer.
Off-grid is a totally different story. We are fully independent from any municipalities.
“Off-grid living has always fascinated me, but how hard is it? Can your expert explain how long it took to set everything up?” ~ Lynn (PA)
Dear Lynn,
It is easy. Things are only as difficult as you make it. Off-grid living is a quiet, peaceful and stress-free life.
Setting it up took a couple of months. It took some research and phone calls.
“I am attracted to the perceived health benefits of remote living. In your experience, what is the best thing about living off-grid?” ~ Donna
Dear Donna,
There are many benefits to living off-grid. There are no electric or water bills, yet we have all the modern conveniences. We enjoy the freedom and flexibility of being totally independent and self-sufficient. We also enjoy being surrounded by the beautiful natural world. It is the best feeling to live in a calm and peaceful environment.
