Up North and Off Grid#10 The Coldest Winter in 20 Years: How Did We Manage?This winter in Finland was (still is at the time of writing this) the coldest in 20 years. Temperatures down to and below -40C (-40F, yeah…3 min read·Jan 18, 2024----
Up North and Off Grid#9 Frequently Asked Questions and CommentsOver the years since I started planning this project and discussing it with others (both online and offline) I’ve had a myriad of questions…9 min read·Feb 6, 2023--2--2
Up North and Off Grid#8 Building DetailsAfter my previous entries on water, heating and power, I think it’s time to go back to the house and reflect on some of the details…9 min read·Sep 13, 2022----
Up North and Off Grid#7 WaterThis entry took me longer to write than I hoped. Spring and summer here means there is a lot of work in a short time, and that leads to…11 min read·Aug 10, 2022--1--1
Up North and Off Grid#6 Heating SystemsIn a cold climate, effective and efficient heating systems are paramount. Because I’m off-grid, I also want a heating system that is fail…15 min read·Apr 6, 2022--5--5
Up North and Off Grid#5 Let’s Make Electricity — Part 2: Components and CostsIn part one I analyzed the electricity requirements, so now let’s start putting this in terms of components, and what it all costs. The…15 min read·Mar 16, 2022--3--3
Up North and Off Grid#4 Let’s Make Electricity — Part 1: Sizing the SystemWhen someone mentions off-grid, one of the first things that come to mind is not being connected to the electricity grid so it deserves…9 min read·Feb 3, 2022--2--2
Up North and Off Grid#3 The FoundationIn many countries the foundation of a house is a matter of pouring a slab of concrete on grade, or putting up some pillars, and calling it…7 min read·Jan 14, 2022----
Up North and Off Grid#2 The House: Core Design DecisionsBefore I began writing this text, I asked for some feedback on the previous posts. One of the things that has become clear to me thanks to…8 min read·Jan 11, 2022----
Up North and Off Grid#1 Location, location, locationAfter having compiled a wish-list and a set of goals, the next step in the adventure is trying to find the right plot of land to build on…6 min read·Jan 9, 2022----