One of the most important aspects of your Off Grid experience is the building site you choose. You want a site that has lots of sun and is free from over head vegetation. Tall trees are wonderful for ambiance and providing shade during hot summer months but this shade lowers the number of hours you can collect sunlight. Choose an open area, ideally south facing with maximum sun exposure. Off grid homes can be constructed on steep terrain but flat building sites make your construction easier and in most cases less expensive. If you are using a well or spring for your water supply remember to factor in the energy use necessary to pump water to your building site. Long distances especially uphill require powerful pumps which require more electricity.
