Off-Grid Living in Brisbane: Free EV Charging
When my wife and I made the decision to purchase a suburban block in Brighton, on the outskirts of Brisbane, to construct a custom-designed home, we also chose to explore the feasibility of living without a connection to the electricity grid.
After careful consideration and some initial calculations two years ago, we took the leap into the unknown, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome.
Embracing Sustainable Living
With a focus on the future and the desire to mitigate climate change impacts for our children, we opted for an eco-friendly approach. This included investing in a Kia EV6, known for its 77kWh battery capacity that could draw 16A, providing us with a reliable power source.
Upon demolishing the old asbestos-ridden house on the property, we disconnected from the grid with the assistance of Energex, coiling the power line to the nearby pole, marking the beginning of our off-grid journey.
Building a Self-Sufficient Home
Our new home was constructed without a grid connection, relying on innovative solutions for power needs. Utilising the sea breeze from being just 200 metres away from the ocean, we maximised natural ventilation and insulation, surpassing standard construction requirements.
The installation of a comprehensive off-grid solar system, costing $32,000, equipped us with 36 high-capacity solar panels, an 8kW Victron inverter, and three pylontech 5000 batteries, ensuring a sustainable power supply.
Efficient Energy Management
To optimise energy usage, a Victron EV charger was integrated, enabling automatic charging of the Kia EV6 from surplus solar energy when the house batteries reach a set level, currently at 80%. This setup significantly accelerated the car’s charging compared to traditional methods.
In case of battery depletion, a backup plan involves utilising the Kia EV6 as a generator by connecting it to the house, showcasing the versatility and reliability of our off-grid system.
Sustainable Practices and Results
Our commitment to sustainability extended to hot water usage, with a Steibel Eltron heat pump system heating water daily. The success of our off-grid lifestyle was evident as we consistently utilised only 25% of our house batteries at night, with daily recharging reaching 100% regardless of weather conditions.
The tangible benefits of our sustainable choices included zero power bills, efficient car charging, and a seamless energy supply, highlighting the viability and advantages of an all-electric lifestyle.
Looking Towards the Future
The economic advantages of residential solar power are becoming increasingly apparent, prompting a shift towards sustainable energy solutions. As consumers embrace off-grid living, there is a growing need for industry stakeholders to incentivise grid disconnection and support innovative energy practices.
While acknowledging the responsibility of contributing excess solar energy to the main grid, there is a call for regulators and energy providers to adapt to evolving energy trends and ensure a smooth transition towards sustainable energy practices.
By sharing our journey towards off-grid living, we hope to inspire others to consider sustainable alternatives and drive positive change in the energy sector.
