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When Li and Michelle Tane set out to build their dream home in the rugged Canterbury high country, they knew it wouldn’t be easy. Nestled in one of New Zealand’s most challenging landscapes, their goal was to live completely off-grid, relying solely on solar power to meet their energy needs. At Garden City Solar, we were thrilled to be a part of this incredible journey, helping to bring their vision of a sustainable, solar-powered lifestyle to life.
Tackling the Challenges of an Off-Grid Build
Building in a remote location always comes with its fair share of challenges, and Li and Michelle’s land was no exception. The steep terrain, difficult river crossings, and the unpredictable Canterbury weather made accessing the site and delivering materials a logistical puzzle. Yet, these obstacles didn’t deter them, or us.
At Garden City Solar, we’re no strangers to tackling tough jobs. We worked closely with the Tanes to understand their energy needs, designing a custom off-grid solar system that would power their everyday household activities, while also supporting the construction process itself. Given the remote location, this system had to be both powerful and reliable, providing enough energy to keep their home running in all seasons, regardless of what Mother Nature threw at them.
Designing the Perfect Solar Solution
For an off-grid home like Li and Michelle’s, it was crucial that the solar system be both durable and efficient. After careful consideration of their location and energy needs, we installed a robust setup of 16 x 455W panels on a ground mount array. This system ensures that their home is powered by renewable energy around the clock, even in the harsh winter months when daylight hours are limited.
With this solar solution in place, the Tanes are not only able to meet all their household energy needs but also enjoy the peace of mind that comes from being fully independent of the grid. Whether it’s powering appliances, or keeping their lights on during a storm, their new solar system delivers the reliability they need for off-grid living.
From Vision to Reality
The journey from concept to completion wasn’t always straightforward, but the results speak for themselves. Li and Michelle’s home now stands as a testament to what’s possible when passion, innovation, and sustainable technology come together. Their stunning home blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings while being powered entirely by the sun.
For us at Garden City Solar, it was an honour to be part of this unique project. Working alongside Li and Michelle to create an energy solution that fits their lifestyle and values was incredibly rewarding. We’re proud to have helped make their dream of off-grid living a reality, and to know that their home will continue to thrive sustainably for many years to come.
The Solar Power Behind the Dream
The solar system we installed includes:
- 7.2kw solar array consisting of 16 x 455W solar panels mounted on a ground array, designed to maximise sunlight exposure and efficiency. 12kwh BYD batteries and a Victron Quattro Inverter.
Now, their solar-powered home provides reliable energy, even during the harsh Canterbury winters. It’s proof that off-grid living in New Zealand is not only possible but can be done sustainably, without sacrificing comfort or reliability.
Ready to Go Off-Grid? Let Us Help!
Li and Michelle’s story is just one example of how solar power can transform the way we live, especially in remote locations. If you’re considering going off-grid or looking to power your home with renewable energy, Garden City Solar is here to help. Whether you’re in a similar high country setting or simply wanting to reduce your reliance on the grid, we can design a system that suits your needs and helps you live more sustainably.
Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help you make your off-grid dream come true.