Energy independence: what you can reduce, what remains
Complete energy independence is rarely realistic for an ordinary house. What you can do is reduce your dependence on the grid through your own generation, storage, better-managed consumption and accurate information about where the energy goes.
What energy independence means
Broadly speaking, it means producing and using as much as possible of the energy you need. In practice, most houses stay connected to the grid: the grid covers the long winter nights, the consumption peaks and the periods without sun. A well-planned system can reduce your dependence on the grid, but it does not eliminate it by itself.
The elements that contribute
Solar energy
Photovoltaic panels are the starting point for producing your own energy.
Storage
Batteries shift energy from the daytime to the evening and can provide backup during outages, when the system is configured for it.
Energy efficiency
Insulation, efficient lighting and economical appliances reduce the energy needed. It is often the cheapest first step.
Managing consumption
Scheduling the large loads for the hours when the system is producing improves self-consumption.
Monitoring
Energy monitoring shows what is happening and what is worth changing.
Complementary sources
Depending on your needs, you can add solar hot water, a fireplace with a heat exchanger or, in suitable locations, a wind turbine.
Hybrid systems as a middle ground
A hybrid system stays connected to the grid but makes better use of the energy produced on site. It usually strikes a balance between cost, comfort and the degree of independence.
What we do not promise
We do not promise guaranteed independence and we do not guarantee any particular savings. The result depends on consumption, location, configuration and the way you use energy. We explain what is realistic in your case and what trade-offs each option involves.
How to start
Start with the figures: your consumption over the last 12 months, which large appliances you have and when you use them. With these, energy consulting and the indicative calculation show you the concrete options.
See also
Useful articles
Frequently asked questions
Can I become completely independent of the grid?
In certain off-grid configurations it is possible, but it involves higher costs and bigger compromises. For most houses it is more realistic to reduce your dependence on the grid.
What is the difference between self-consumption and independence?
Self-consumption means how much of the energy produced you use directly. Independence refers to how much of your needs you cover without the grid.
What if I only have a limited budget?
You can start with efficiency measures and a smaller photovoltaic system that can be extended later. Tell us your budget and we will propose stages.
Shall we talk about your project?
Tell us your town and roughly how much you use. We will suggest the next steps.