Resources

The best resources for off-grid living, ranked by importance. Each entry includes the web address, contact information, a summary of what they offer, and our commentary on why it matters.

#1

Solar Electric Handbook

https://www.solarelectrichandbook.com
Contact: info@solarelectrichandbook.com
Free online textbook covering solar PV design, battery systems, inverters, and off-grid electrical. Technical but accessible.
The single best free resource for designing a solar system. Used by professionals and DIYers alike. Bookmark this before buying any solar equipment.
#2

Backwoods Home Magazine

https://www.backwoodshome.com
Contact: editor@backwoodshome.com
Practical self-reliance magazine. Homesteading, gardening, building, food preservation, livestock, off-grid living.
The granddaddy of self-reliance publishing. No-nonsense, practical advice from people actually living it. Archives are a treasure.
#3

Permies.com

https://permies.com
Contact: paul@richsoil.com
The largest permaculture community online. Forums, articles, videos. Run by Paul Wheaton.
The most active forum for off-grid and permaculture discussion. Real people sharing real experiences. Better than any book because the advice is battle-tested.
#4

Wholesale Solar

https://www.wholesalesolar.com
Contact: support@wholesalesolar.com
Solar equipment retailer with extensive educational content. System design tools, installation guides, product comparisons.
Not just a retailer — their learning center and design tools are genuinely useful. Free system sizing calculators and wiring diagrams.
#5

Off Grid World

https://offgridworld.com
Contact: contact@offgridworld.com
Off-grid lifestyle blog covering tiny homes, solar, water, and alternative living. Project showcases and how-tos.
Good for inspiration and project ideas. Less technical than the Handbook but more accessible for beginners exploring the lifestyle.
#6

USDA Hardiness Zone Map

https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov
Contact: nifa@usda.gov
Official USDA plant hardiness zones. Enter your zip code to know what grows in your area. Essential for food production planning.
The first thing to check before planning any garden or food forest. Your zone determines everything. Free, authoritative, and updated.

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