Off-grid homeowner transforms rooftop solar panels with bold renovation: 'Looks awesome'

Living off-grid offers a number of benefits, from increased independence to lower living costs and a more sustainable lifestyle by relying on renewable energy and homegrown food. 

"I love it so much out there! The smells, the scenery, the solitude," wrote one homeowner about their off-grid cabin in East Texas on a post in the r/Cabins subreddit. 

The homeowner shared a photo of their cabin, complete with an upstairs deck that had been built using the work platform that had been assembled for the installation of their solar panels. The deck now benefits from the shade the panels provide, offering an extra space to lounge outside. 

There has been a rise in people turning to off-grid living as they look for ways to lower their living costs while also being more mindful of reducing their impact on the environment. Off-grid living also provides a closer connection to nature and allows people to be more resilient to extreme weather events by not relying on utility services. 

While the initial startup costs can be high, homeowners can save hundreds or thousands of dollars each year on utilities, groceries, and other costs. This is especially true if people use rain barrels to collect water, grow their own fruits and veggies, and use solar panels like this homeowner to generate their energy. 

Off-grid living isn't for everyone, but you can still reap some of the benefits by installing solar panels and batteries to allow you to generate your own electricity, independent from the grid. This will help make your home more resilient to extreme weather events while also saving you lots of your utility bills every year. You could also consider growing some of your own food, which can help ensure you have healthy options on the table while reducing the amount you spend at the store. 

Commenters were impressed by this homeowner's new build. One commenter wrote: "Looks awesome, thanks for sharing!" 

Another added: "Ahh. I can smell the Piney Woods through that picture...and the pollen. ETX native here. Love that place."

If you were to install home solar panels, which of these factors would be your primary motivation? Energy independence ⚡ Lower power bills 💰 Helping the planet 🌎 No chance I ever go solar 🚫 Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.