DISCONNECT FROM THE GRID, RECONNECT WITH THE PLANET
The grid: that vast network of utilities that includes electricity, water, sewage, gas and telephone lines. Most utility bills are predictably unpredictable. They maintain a monthly grip around the wallet, keeping most people tethered to one monopoly or another.
For a growing number of people, the idea of disconnecting from the grid can be appealing and somewhat intimidating at the same time. The consequences of climate change, geopolitical instability and socioeconomic disparity are creating profound uncertainty, incentivizing many to move off the power grid – in whole or in part.
Small pockets of people around the globe are increasingly disconnecting from the lattice of black wires that almost surrealistically imposes itself against an otherwise harmonious landscape. Seeking to take back power – literally and figuratively – is not easy, but small sustainable communities and individuals are demonstrating that it can be done. Moreover, they are proving that there are many benefits.
UNPLUGGING: TYALGUM, NSW
Several years ago, local businessman, Andrew Price, bought a butter factory in the tiny town of Tyalgum, NSW. His idea was to create a renewable energy center in the small tourist town of an estimated 300 residents, with the aim of introducing the tourists – and the public in general – to the possibilities and benefits of renewable energy as a technology for personal use in their homes. He then realized that the town had all the ingredients to expand the idea into a renewable energy township.
His vision to take Tyalgum off the grid could result in it being the first town of its kind in the country. To move the dream from concept to reality, he enlisted the aid of Kasey Clifford as project manager. Clifford obtained an initial grant of $15,000 and flew in several experts. Essentially, the experts had two chief goals: promote community engagement and conduct a feasibility study.
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