Off-Grid Living Made Easy: How Discovery Homes Can Help

Your Complete Guide to Off-Grid Modular Living

Off-grid living is no longer just for survivalists and hermits. Modern families across Western Canada are choosing energy independence, sustainability, and the freedom that comes with off-grid modular homes.

Why Choose Off-Grid Modular?

Environmental Benefits:

• Zero dependence on fossil fuel-powered grid electricity
• Reduced carbon footprint through efficient design
• Sustainable building materials and practices
• Water conservation and waste reduction systems

Financial Advantages:

• No monthly utility bills (average savings: $200-400/month)
• Government rebates for renewable energy systems
• Lower property taxes in some rural areas
• Increased property value and marketability

Lifestyle Freedom:

• Build anywhere with proper land access
• Independence from utility company rate increases
• Resilience during power outages and emergencies
• Connection with nature and sustainable living

Essential Off-Grid Systems

1. Solar Power System

Components:

• Solar panels (typically 5-10kW for modular homes)
• Battery bank (lithium-ion recommended)
• Charge controller and inverter
• Backup generator (propane or diesel)

Cost: $25,000-$40,000 installed

Discovery Homes Integration: Pre-wired electrical systems, optimal roof positioning, and space for battery storage.

2. Water Systems

Water Sources:

• Drilled well (most common, $8,000-$15,000)
• Rainwater collection (supplemental use)
• Spring or surface water (with proper treatment)

Water Treatment:

• Whole-house filtration systems
• UV sterilization for bacterial control
• Water softening in hard water areas

3. Waste Management

Septic Systems:

• Conventional septic tank and field ($8,000-$12,000)
• Advanced treatment units for challenging soils
• Composting toilets for ultra-remote locations

Discovery Homes Off-Grid Packages

Pine Off-Grid Package

• Base Home: $183,000
• Solar System: $30,000 (6kW with battery backup)
• Well & Septic: $20,000 (estimated)
• Total Package: Starting at $224,000

Spruce Off-Grid Package

• Base Home: $188,000
• Solar System: $35,000 (8kW with extended battery)
• Well & Septic: $22,000 (estimated)
• Total Package: Starting at $236,000

Custom Off-Grid Solutions

For larger families or extreme off-grid locations, we offer custom packages including:

• Hybrid wind/solar systems
• Micro-hydro power where applicable
• Greywater recycling systems
• Root cellars and food storage solutions

Typical Off-Grid System Performance

Well-designed off-grid modular homes typically achieve:

Energy Independence Results:

• Monthly utility costs: $0 (after initial system investment)
• Energy independence: 95-99% (minimal generator use)
• System reliability: Consistent power year-round
• Cost savings: 30-40% less than traditional off-grid construction

Common System Configurations:

• Solar-Only: 6-10kW systems with battery backup
• Hybrid Systems: Solar + wind for increased reliability
• Water Systems: Drilled wells with UV treatment
• Heating: High-efficiency wood stoves with electric backup

Why Modular Homes Excel Off-Grid

Modular construction offers several advantages for off-grid living:

• Pre-wired Systems: Electrical infrastructure designed for renewable energy integration
• Optimal Design: Roof positioning and space planning for solar installation
• Quality Control: Factory construction ensures consistent energy efficiency
• System Integration: Pre-planned spaces for batteries, inverters, and equipment

Planning Your Off-Grid Project

Step 1: Site Assessment

• Solar exposure analysis
• Water source evaluation
• Soil testing for septic
• Access road requirements

Step 2: System Design

• Energy needs calculation
• Component selection and sizing
• Integration planning with home design
• Backup system configuration

Step 3: Permits and Approvals

• Building permits
• Electrical permits for solar systems
• Health department approval for septic
• Water well permits

Step 4: Installation and Commissioning

• Site preparation and utilities
• Home delivery and setup
• System installation and testing
• Training and handover