Living Off-Grid with a Small Plug-In Hybrid or Electric Car
In the quest for sustainable living, many are exploring the possibility of off-grid existence. For those without access to land or public charging stations, running an off-grid life with a small plug-in hybrid or electric car (EV) presents both challenges and potential solutions. This article explores how such a lifestyle can be achievable, drawing insights from practical examples.
The Case Study: Motorway Service Centre at BP Station, Drury
A real-world example is the BP service station centered in Drury, just south of Auckland. This facility was designed with its own solar panels on the roofs to generate power independently. The National Grid was deemed too far away to be connected, necessitating the installation of solar panels to meet the energy needs of the station. This approach can be very inspiring for residents looking to go off-grid.
Similarly, many isolated houses have adopted this method, leveraging solar panels and batteries to meet their power requirements, including the charge needed for their vehicles. By increasing the capacity of the solar panels and batteries, these households can comfortably charge their EVs without major issues.
Plug-In Hybrids and Charging Options
Plug-in hybrids, while offering conventional hybrid functionality when not plugged in, come with their own caveats. One major drawback is the forfeiture of cargo space, which may not be practically justifiable. However, for many, the convenience of a traditionally hybrid car can offset this inconvenience.
On the other hand, an all-electric vehicle (EV) requires regular charging. This presents a significant challenge for those not connected to a reliable source of electricity. In this scenario, one viable option is public charging stations, which are often free or inexpensive for the slower chargers. However, these stations are generally not available ubiquitously, making them an intermittent solution.
An alternative, albeit more infrequent, is charging at a friend’s or relative’s place, which is helpful but not practical for daily or weekly use.
The Role of Generators
For resolving the lack of electricity, one might consider using a generator. However, land ownership becomes a critical issue. Without a property, using a generator would be a noisy, inconvenient, and potentially infringing on someone else's land. This makes it a generally unadvisable option for those off-grid living by choice.
Conclusion and Recommendations
While living off-grid with a small plug-in hybrid or electric car presents numerous challenges, innovative solutions exist. Solar panels and batteries offer a reliable means of generating and storing power for both household and vehicular needs. Additionally, public charging stations can provide a helpful but limited alternative for EV charging.
For those looking to live off-grid without land or public charging stations, focusing on a combination of renewable energy sources and practical charging solutions is key. Solar power and battery integration can significantly enhance the feasibility of a successful off-grid life.