I list many rural properties in Cochise County Arizona. I currently have 2 that are "off grid". They use solar power for electricity and passive heating.
I often receive emails from folks wanting to know details about the property. But recently I received one that asked
" What are some surprising bad things about living off grid?"
After I wrote the response I saw that this is some information that many folks may want.
The following is an excerpt from the email that I wrote. He is interested in a particular property.
The power is generally 100% solar. If there is a greater than regular use of electrical power the back up propane generator will kick in. There is no proprietary power there.
Surprising bad things……It is the wilderness and solar power here so, I suggest that you take a good hard look at your life and the comforts that you take for granted. When you use alternative power it may take some time to know what your parameters are. …ie do you keep all your lights on without worry? Do you have a lot of tv’s or need to have your computer running 24.7? A laptop uses less power as do the flat screens as opposed to the large desktop equipment……curling irons and flat irons use lots of power. …some tasks may be better done if you turn on the generator so as not to run down the power stored in the batteries. For instance if you are using power tools….turn on the generator and use that power.
When I set up my living space I had to start from scratch and build my own system. This home is all set and you may overlook the reality of your power usage since you do not have to start from scratch.
The wilderness brings it’s own set of realities, most of them incredibly beautiful. But…there are real wild animals …coyotes will try to get your cat, cow’s like garbage….except the property you are looking at is fenced with other acreage to keep out cows……Arizona has free range laws. I’ve got a mountain lion that I’ve seen on my property a couple of times.
Spring is very windy here. It is imperative you keep your stuff tied down or stored in one of the railroad containers on the property, or you will be hiking to find it. Those plastic bags from the grocery store are the worst! Having a good all terrain vehicle is important. The summer monsoons are really beautiful but also make the roads muddy. This home is about 4 miles from pavement at Leslie canyon rd.
If you would like to see this listing and some of the other rural homes and land available go to my website;
Got more questions or comments? call me at 520-220-0387 or email maryannead@gmail.com
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Mary Ann, fascinating topic, especially with the implications of global warming and alternative energy. Often wondered of the "off the grid" lifestyle. Sounds very much like a step back into the wild West.
Hi Andrew,
Living off grid in this part of Arizona is much like the "wild west"!
However living off the grid doesn't neccessarily mean that you have to be in the wild anymore. Power, generated by solar means, can be sold back to most electric companies.
I've personally found it amazing that I now know what it takes to live without taking my "services" for granted. Most folks don't even think about the power they get to fuel their appliances. Technology these days has created ways to be more independent. There are solar shingles, they can turn your whole rooftop into your power source.You can have your own satellite dish to get internet.
It's truly an independent way of life.
Peace,
Mary An