Owning Land, Off-Grid Living, and Solar Power in BC

There’s something deeply satisfying about waking up to birdsong instead of traffic, surrounded by trees instead of rooftops. That dream of living off the grid—free from utility bills and closer to nature—is becoming more than just a fantasy for many British Columbians. And here at BC Land Lots, we understand that dream better than most. We live it ourselves.

Whether you're searching for a remote piece of land to call your own, or you're planning your solar-powered homestead, here's what you need to know about owning land, off-grid living, and harnessing solar power in beautiful British Columbia.

Choosing the Right Land for Off-Grid Living

BC is a massive and diverse province. From the wet coasts of Vancouver Island to the dry, sunny hills of the Okanagan, no two lots are quite the same. Choosing the right land is the first—and arguably the most important—step in your off-grid journey.

Zoning and Regulations

Before falling in love with a property, make sure it’s actually usable for your intended purpose. Zoning bylaws vary widely across regional districts and municipalities. Some land is zoned strictly for agriculture (and may fall under the Agricultural Land Reserve),which could limit what you can build or how you can use the land.
It’s always worth a call to the local planning department or a quick dive into the official zoning maps before making an offer.

Access and Maintenance

Some off-grid properties have no legal road access, or they might rely on unmaintained forestry roads. Consider how you’ll get to your land year-round. Will you need a snowmobile in winter? A 4x4 in spring? Does the driveway cross someone else's property?
Access can make or break a deal—especially when you're hauling in building materials, firewood, or solar panels.

Water Sources

No utilities also means no municipal water. Options include drilling a well, capturing rainwater, or using surface water from a creek or spring. Each option has different costs, permitting requirements, and seasonal limitations. Wells are the most common long-term solution but vary greatly in depth and flow depending on geology.
If you're eyeing a piece of land, ask about existing water rights or prior well reports.

Terrain and Soil

Flat land is easier to build on, but sloped land may offer better sun exposure for solar. Forested lots give privacy and firewood, but clearing land for a build or garden can be labor-intensive. Look at sun exposure, drainage, soil depth, and how usable the land really is—not just how pretty it looks from the road.

What Off-Grid Living Really Means

Going off-grid means you're not connected to public utilities like hydro, water, or sewer. For some, it’s a way to disconnect from modern noise. For others, it's about resilience, sustainability, or simply necessity when you're miles from the nearest power pole.
But it’s not just a lifestyle—it’s a mindset.

Expect to take full responsibility for:

• Electricity (solar, generator, or a hybrid system)
• Water (from a well or captured rainwater)
• Waste (composting toilet or septic system)
• Heat (wood stove, propane, or passive solar design)

It requires planning, creativity, and a willingness to be hands-on—but the reward is freedom. And yes, it’s 100% doable. We live off-grid ourselves and wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Solar Power in BC: Is It Worth It?

One of the most common questions we hear is: Does solar even work in BC?
Yes—it absolutely does. While coastal regions get their share of overcast days, areas like Walhachin and Highway 33 near Kelowna are ideal for solar setups. They get long stretches of sunny weather, particularly spring through fall, making them great locations for solar-powered off-grid homes or cabins.

A basic off-grid solar system typically includes:

• Solar panels
• A charge controller
• Deep cycle batteries or lithium storage
• An inverter
• (Optionally) a backup generator for winter months or cloudy periods

You don’t need to go all-in overnight, either. Many of our buyers start small and expand over time as their energy needs grow.

There are also federal and provincial incentives available for renewable energy projects, including rebates and tax credits that can offset your upfront investment.

Land for Sale: Walhachin & Highway 33

If you’re ready to take the leap into off-grid living, we’ve got some great land options available right now:

Walhachin, BC – Sunny, quiet, and remote, with wide open skies and panoramic views—ideal for those seeking privacy and space. Whether you're planning a cabin, tiny home, or a private retreat, these properties give you options: they’re connected to BC Hydro, but solar power remains a great alternative if you prefer to stay off-grid.

Highway 33 near Kelowna – Closer to town but still remote enough for real off-grid freedom. Beautiful rolling land with good year-round access and a strong potential for a productive solar setup. You're not far from amenities when needed, but you’re far enough to feel truly independent.

Both of these regions offer exactly what off-grid enthusiasts are looking for: usable land, room to breathe, and sun exposure that makes solar energy a practical and reliable option.

Getting Started

If you’re just starting to explore the off-grid lifestyle, here are a few first steps:

• Check zoning and access on any property you’re considering
• Research off-grid power and water systems
• Talk to people already living this way (we’re always happy to chat)
• Be realistic about what you’ll need for comfort and safety

Off-grid living isn’t for everyone—but for those who want it, there’s nothing better. It’s peaceful, empowering, and surprisingly achievable. And if you’ve got the land, you’re already halfway there.

Ready to find your own slice of freedom?
Take a look at our Walhachin and Kelowna Highway 33 listings, or contact us to talk through what you're looking for. We live this life ourselves—and we’re here to help you live it too.