Guide to Off-Grid Communities in The UK

In recent years, as more and more people seek alternatives to traditional grid-connected lifestyles, off-grid living has become more popular. A group that yearns for and practices off-grid living forms an off-grid community.

Most off-grid communities in the UK want to reduce their environmental impact. In addition, some secrets exist to a successful experience in an off-grid community. This article discusses what off-grid communities are and the benefits of off-grid living. Also, we highly recommend Jackery Solar Generator, the portable solar power solution, to charge your off-grid appliances with unlimited solar energy outdoors.

Off-Grid Communities Overview

Most people think off-grid living is living without reliance on utilities such as commercial electricity and water, while others believe it is living entirely self-sufficiently. Living off the grid in the UK means being off the grid from utilities such as electricity, water, and gas.

Own electricity, get your town water, and dispose of your waste. However, many people in the UK have become accustomed to the luxurious comforts of urban life, and being off the grid is a rather tricky task for many people. So, living off the grid in the UK is highly challenging, and most people can only successfully live off the grid part of the time.

After understanding the meaning of off-grid living, it is easier to understand what an off-grid community is. So, what is an off-grid community?

An off-grid community comprises people who live independently and sustainably from the traditional power grid. Members of an off-grid community usually practice sustainable living techniques such as permaculture, rainwater harvesting and composting to reduce their environmental impact while cultivating self-sufficiency.  

Off-grid communities in the UK strive to achieve a self-sufficient lifestyle and cultivate solidarity among members by cutting off ties with traditional energy sources.

Is Living Off The Grid Legal in The UK?

Off-grid living is a way of living that is self-sufficient, sustainable and closely connected to nature. It has attracted the attention of many people in the UK.

But many people have questions: Is off-grid living legal in the UK? There is no specific law in the UK prohibiting off-grid living, but planning permission and local regulations must be followed.

Here are some points to pay attention to when living off-grid in the UK:

1. Land Ownership: Make sure you have the legal right to use the land you plan to live off-grid, whether you own the land, have a leasehold or have an agreement with the landowner.
2. Building Regulations: You must follow local authorities ' guidelines when setting up an off-grid site or home.
3. Utility Connection: In some areas of the UK, it may be mandatory for residents to use utility connections.
4. Safety Standards: In off-grid homes, specific safety standards such as electrical systems should also be followed, and heat protection systems should be installed.
5. Insurance: Insurance for off-grid properties may vary, so please purchase appropriate insurance.
6. Environmental Regulations: In the UK, you must dispose of waste and rubbish by regulations and ensure it does not harm the environment or water supplies.
7. Penalties for Illegal Off-grid Living in the UK: In the UK, if you are caught living illegally off-grid, you may be subject to varying degrees of punishment.

Off-Grid Communities in The UK 

Embracing a simpler lifestyle in an off-grid community can be life-changing or environmentally transformative. Unsurprisingly, many consider location, climate, community size, and shared values or goals when searching for an ideal community. Most off-grid communities in the UK want to reduce their environmental impact.

Here are some of the most established examples of off-grid communities in the UK:

Hockerton Housing Project

The Hockerton Housing Project is an off-grid eco-housing development in Hockerton, Nottinghamshire, UK. Five families initiated a sustainable and low-impact living model to create an environmentally friendly community that operates off the grid, produces energy, and manages resources sustainably.

Hockerton Housing Project's homes require very little heating. Its electricity consumption is also lower than usual, provided by on-site renewable energy generation, with two 6kW turbines and 7.6kW solar panels. Hockerton Housing Project also has a reed bed system that can purify wastewater through various organic ponds.

Lammas Eco Village

Lammas Eco Village in Wales is a well-known example of an off-grid community in the UK. It consists of nine small farms and approximately 75 residents. Lammas Eco Village aims to be self-sufficient in energy, food and other resources. Water, roads and electricity are collectively managed, with electricity from hydroelectric, solar and wind turbines.

The land is used primarily for growing food, land enterprises, growing biomass and processing organic waste. In addition, Lammas Eco Village received some initial funding from the UK Department of Energy and Climate Change to explore low-impact, affordable and climate-friendly lifestyles.

The Community of Scoraig

The community of Scoraig is a decentralised, isolated community. The residents of the community of Scoraig (about 70 people) live in relative isolation, with some houses and schools powered by wind power. Among the residents are tenant farmers with cattle and sheep, violin makers, wind power experts, Russian translators, volunteers and part-time postal workers. This remote British community reportedly lives off the grid.

Tinkers Bubble

Tinkers Bubble is a small, off-grid woodland community in Somerset. Tinkers Bubble aims to minimise its environmental impact and promote a sustainable lifestyle. It practices organic farming and forestry, and its pastures, orchards and gardens are all certified organic, using a combination of no-till and horse-drawn tillage.

Tinkers Bubble residents use renewable energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines. Made up of 6 adults and long-term volunteers, Tinkers Bubble conducts much of its daily life outdoors.

The Development of Off-Grid Communities in The UK

Historically, most off-grid communities in the UK have been associated with alternative lifestyles and counterculture. But in recent years, off-grid living has resurgent in human society. So, how many households in the UK live off-grid?

Statistics show that around 150,000 households in the UK are entirely off-grid, meaning they are not connected to gas or the grid, up from just 25,000 in 2007. However, of the 150,000 off-grid households in the UK, around 10,000 are traditional single-family homes, with the rest being sheds, vans, boats, communes, fields, tents, etc.

A rough estimate puts this at 18,000 boats, 30,000 sheds and 70,000 converted vans. In addition, up to 200,000 households are off-grid, either because they were not connected during the initial rollout in the 1960s and 1970s or because they choose to live off-grid.

Off-grid living has reportedly risen in popularity over the past few years. In April 2023, Tinkers Bubble, one of the most famous off-grid woodland communities in the UK, received permanent planning permission, which can be seen as an essential milestone in the possible solution to the housing, energy, climate and biodiversity crises. Of course, this is also a significant step in developing off-grid communities in the UK.

How To Start Off-Grid Living in The UK?

Starting off-grid living in the UK requires careful consideration. So, how do you begin off-grid living in the UK? The following will provide a step-by-step guide on starting your ideal off-grid life while complying with all the legal requirements.

Step 1: Planning

The first step to legalising off-grid living in the UK should be conducting thorough and adequate research. Take the time to learn as much as possible about the legal framework regarding land ownership, planning permission, building regulations and environmental standards.

Step 2: Choose A Location for Off-grid Living

Make sure there is an ideal location for off-grid living. Essential factors to consider when looking for a new place to live off-grid include:

• The accessibility of the land.
• The distance to available water sources.
• The quality of the soil.

Obtaining legal permission to restrict and utilise the land to suit your needs is vital.

Understanding the intricacies of planning permission and building regulations is essential to setting up an off-grid home. While certain buildings may not require formal approval, the standards regarding permanent homes are considered 100% mandatory.

Choosing the right property is the most complex and most crucial part. There are many things to think about and things you might have to give up. Fundamentally, the ideal off-grid site needs to have these characteristics: 

• Approved for self-reliance
• Plenty of water, greenery, open area, and more supplies
• Simple to increase sunshine exposure
• Stay away from cities
• Not very expensive

Living off the grid will require diverse amounts of land for individuals and families, but at least one thousand square meters is ideal. You have to decide first on your income source. Will you continue to work in your existing career, go into agriculture as your primary source of income, or start a remote online business?

Then, ask yourself what essential resources you hope to extract from your property. Fruits, vegetables, dairy, water, and wood are all possible harvests. There will be different land needs for each of these.

Step 3: Rent or Build Off-Grid House

Disconnecting from your present residence is generally not feasible. This is particularly true if you live in a densely populated area with multiple utility connections. Alternatives, including the following, should be taken into account:

Building An Off-Grid Cabin: Constructing an off-grid residence from the ground up. Collaborate with a contractor with a wealth of experience in constructing off-grid cabins and other forms of off-grid housing.

Be realistic about the time, energy, effort, and expense necessary to construct your off-grid residence. You may want to consider this option.

Rent a Rural House: A rural property that can be converted to off-grid living is available for hire. Review online property listings and enquire with realtors regarding properties that stimulate your interest. Visit a variety of residences to ascertain the amenities and ease of off-grid living.

Residing in A Caravan or Campervan: Modern caravans or camper vans are furnished with kitchens, bedrooms, and toilets, in addition to all other essential amenities for a residence. And you can travel to a new location at your leisure.

Step 4: Ensure Living Needs

Living off the grid requires managing various systems, such as power, water, and food supply systems. The following are the detailed explanations.

Power System

You need to use renewable sources like solar or wind energy to make power when you live off the grid. Because these sites use less fossil fuels and have less of an effect on the environment, they are a good choice for those who care about the environment.

People who want to live off the grid often choose solar energy. Once you know how much electricity you need, consider the best solar panel choices to meet those needs, considering climate, sun exposure, and space.

Solar power has become more popular in the UK for a few years. This is because hardware costs have decreased, more countries are using solar energy, and there is a big push to reduce carbon footprints. We also recommend investing in a portable power system, like Jackery Solar Generator, to charge your appliances with renewable energy.

 Water System

In the UK, residing off the grid necessitates a paradigm shift; water cannot be obtained by simply activating the washbasin or shower. You are obligated to install and supervise water systems.

Numerous individuals are under the impression that they are not susceptible to water scarcity due to the presence of a well or a functioning tap. Construct a dependable system with a fallback plan for acquiring and storing water throughout the year, considering your water consumption over drinking, irrigation, washing, and livestock.

Food Supply System

One of the best parts about living off the grid in the UK is figuring out how to grow or hunt your food. No worries if gardening isn't your thing. Many of the best gardeners and farmers learnt their craft by trying things out and figuring it out along the way. You know what's great about plants?

They're super resilient! Many veggies we know and love can bounce back even if they sometimes don't get the best care.

- Easy Irrigation Setup: Drip irrigation is super efficient regarding water use and helps keep vegetation growth in check, but it does rely quite a bit on plastic tubing. Carrots and radishes seem to sprout best when using overhead irrigation, even though they can be inefficient and lead to more plant issues.

- Hunting or Raising Animals: Taking care of dairy goats, cows, ducks, and other livestock can be a bit more involved, but they provide a lot of food like eggs, milk, and meat. If you want to boost your animal knowledge, starting small and learning from local farmers and fellow off-grid homesteaders is a great idea.

Step 5: Comply with The Law

Legally living off the grid in the UK requires constant attention to various laws, regulations and policies that may affect you. Please know of any potential legal changes that may jeopardise your off-grid living.

In addition, the law stipulates that individuals must minimise environmental damage. So, to avoid penalties and legal repercussions, please take the necessary steps to mitigate your environmental impact.

Step 6: Off-Grid Communities

If you intend to live off-grid in the UK, you can establish connections with individuals who share your interests. The most effective approach to acquiring knowledge about off-grid living is to join an off-grid community.

Moving off the grid may prove advantageous if one participates in seminars on cultivating one's garden, establishing a compost pile, and repairing one's residence. For a comprehensive inventory of community events, consult the local newspaper or library.

In the UK's off-grid communities, many individuals exchange their experiences, ideas, and counsel on maintaining a connection while living off the grid.

Jackery Solar Generators for Off-Grid Living

Investing in a solar generator for an off-grid power system is more straightforward as it operates independently of the primary grid. The intricate nature of the grid tide system necessitates that an expert conduct installation and connecting to the primary power grid.

Jackery is the preeminent supplier of solar panels, portable power stations, and solar generators. Jackery Solar Generators comprise Jackery Solar Panels and Portable Power Stations that transform solar energy into electricity. The power station's integrated inverter converts DC into AC, supplying power to indoor and outdoor devices.

Determine the energy requirements for acquiring a solar generator for your off-grid residence. Jackery Portable Power Stations possess capacities varying from 100Wh to 12 kWh, contingent upon the user's specifications. The equation for determining your device's charging duration is as follows:

Working Time = (Power Station Capacity * 0.85) / Operating Wattage of Your Device

Charging a 500W blender using a Solar Generator 2000 Plus (2042.8Wh capacity) will require 3.8 hours (2042.8Wh*0.85/500W).  

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus

Jackery has unveiled the Solar Generator 2000 Plus, a cutting-edge portable power solution with exceptional performance for off-grid living. Thanks to its substantial capacity and formidable power output, this device can sustain the operation of standard off-grid appliances for several weeks and fulfil all the power needs associated with outdoor adventure or professional activity.

The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus allows adding extra battery packs, which boosts the capacity from 2 kWh to a remarkable 12 kWh, thus enhancing the solar charging capabilities significantly. With the ability to be expanded to 3000W, this solar product offers a 30% higher rated power than other 2 kWh solar goods available in the market.

The Explorer 2000 Plus is an industry's pioneering add-on battery pack that can be recharged using solar panels. This feature enhances versatility, improves charging efficiency, and reduces charging time. The LiFePO4 battery, with its sophisticated technology, guarantees a lifespan of 10 years, even with daily usage limited to once per day. Jackery Solar Panels generate more energy over their lifespan due to their exceptional solar conversion efficiency, reaching up to 25%.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 is an upgraded version which is smaller, lighter, and even more robust for off-grid living in the UK. It is the combination of Explorer 1000 v2 with SolarSaga 100W solar panel.       

The Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station has an impressive 1500W power output, over 50% more than earlier models, allowing for easy operation of high-demand appliances such as kettles, refrigerators and portable air conditioners.

Equipped with USB-A/C connections and capacity for up to 100W dual PD charging, this gadget can simultaneously charge many devices, making it the ideal companion for all your power requirements.

The Emergency Charge Mode, activated via the application, enables the Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station to achieve complete charging in under one hour, providing essential power backup during battery depletion. Furthermore, the ability to charge from 0% to 100% within a two-hour timeframe utilising an AC wall outlet prolongs the battery's lifespan.

Tips for A Successful Experience in Off-Grid Communities 

Joining an off-grid community requires an open mind, a willingness to adapt, and the ability to embrace new experiences and learn from those around you. So, what exactly is the secret to a successful off-grid experience?

Here are some tips to help you have a successful off-grid experience:

Be Prepared: Before joining an off-grid community and starting an off-grid life, you must learn the basic skills necessary to be self-sufficient.

Be Willing To Learn and Adapt: Off-grid living can bring unexpected challenges and situations, so you must develop an adaptable and flexible mindset. At the same time, you need to try new things and solve problems creatively to find joy in the unpredictability of off-grid life.

Keep Your Life Simple: Off-grid living often means a simpler lifestyle, so break away from material pursuits and enjoy the joy of natural simplicity, meaningful relationships, and personal growth.

Build Good Relationships and Communicate Effectively: Good communication is always the key to harmonious living. Connecting with others will provide you with support, valuable advice, and opportunities for collaboration.

It would help if you interacted with members of the off-grid community by joining online forums, attending meetups, or lending a hand.

Off-Grid Communities in The UK FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about the off-grid communities in the UK.

What are the best places to live off the grid in the UK?

There are five best places to live off the grid in the UK:

• Charters Farm, Northumberland
• Guardswell Farm, Perthshire
• Laggan, Ardnish Peninsula
• Old Coach House, Cornwall
• Shank Wood Log Cabin, Cumbria        

Can you pick a place to build an off-grid home in the UK?

You should find a place to build an off-grid home in the UK. According to local regulations in the UK, the land you choose must be suitable for residential use. So, before buying off-grid land, consult your local government.

So, if you want to find low-cost or free land suitable for off-grid living in the UK, please pay attention to the following points:

• Look for remote areas away from cities
• Look for towns that offer free land to attract new residents
• Check government land auctions
• Investigate abandoned properties

Do you still have to pay council tax if you live off the grid?

Generally, yes. Most off-grid homes in the UK still have to pay council tax. If you live in a fixed residence, you must pay council tax. (This tax funds services such as schools, libraries, garbage collection and emergency services.)

However, there are some exceptions. If you live on a boat that can be moved anytime, you may not have to pay council tax.

Final Thoughts

Off-grid communities in the UK are gaining popularity as an environmental-friendly and sustainable way of living. For those who commit to this lifestyle, it aligns with sustainability, self-sufficiency and connection with nature.