I need permission for a wind turbine? Much depends on the size of your garden and the type of wind turbine, but the answer is generally yes – you do need permission from your local authority. Wind turbines are becoming smaller and more compact, however, and government thinking is rapidly changing, so keep a check.
Do I need permission for a solar collector? The rules vary depending upon precisely where you live, but, although you do need permission from your local authority, it is generally given. Once again, as governments are now giving grants to encourage off-grid energy, the likelihood is that you will get permission.
How is rural living different?
Certainly, a country person will know more about country life than a town person, but the inspired town dweller who wants to follow the dream and move to the country is likely to be very strongly motivated. While a town person might be completely ignorant of all the complex and sometimes harsh realities of country living, this in itself can put them at an advantage. Sometimes it is good to look at a problem from a fresh perspective.
Your first fresh, straight-from-the-hen egg will be a joy!
Beekeeping is a good option; it is relatively low in cost, you will be able to join a local group, and there is always a ready market for local honey.
A good-sized polytunnel will allow you to extend the growing season for the greater part of the year – planting a month or two earlier and harvesting a month or two later.
Sheep are a good low-cost option, but your children may make friends with the lambs.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is a country option easier? It is easier in the sense that there is more space, but not so easy in terms of travel and transport. I think that country living is by far the easiest go-green option because land is often less expensive, there is more space, and there is more choice.
Is a country life lonely? Living in the country can be quite lonely, especially if you are seen as being different. Living in a small community can be very restricting as everyone will know your business. If you are of an independent nature, you will feel empowered. Certainly, there are fewer people, but you will have more personal space – a very important factor for some people. Then again, country people can be very caring and protective. If you have school-age children, you will soon be drawn into school and village activities.
Is transport a problem? Transport costs can be high, especially if you live off the beaten track. You will need a reliable van or truck – possibly a four-wheel drive (try to choose a fuel-efficient model).
Is livestock a difficult option? Livestock needs year-round care, even on celebration days. If you have a cold, flu or a sprained ankle, it can be a huge problem. However, while some people see animals as a tie, others see them as an opportunity to de-stress and be more in touch with nature.
Is the countryside as romantic as it sounds? Yes, the feeling of space, the ever-changing seasons, the animal life, the silence, the birds singing, the wind in the trees – the country can be spiritually uplifting. The other side of this coin is that the physical realities of country living can also sometimes be harsh, cruel and relentless.
Is there less pollution in the country? There are fewer car fumes and factory smells, and noise and light pollution are low, but some farmers still use some nasty chemical sprays and dips, and country roads can be noisy and busy.
Is it possible to buy land? Yes, agricultural land – a small field, small wood or patch of scrubby land – is generally low-cost and readily available. That said, you can easily rent fields, spreads and woods.
Is the weather in the country different? The weather is not in any way better or worse, but in the country it makes more of an impact. Whereas adverse weather in the town can make things a bit difficult – the paths a bit wet, the trains running slowly – the same weather in the country can bring everything to a standstill.
Will my children have things to do? If your kids want to build a camp in the fields, climb trees, ride horses or join the village youth club, that is great. Rural activities can be good fun and cheap. On the other hand, they might, to some extent, miss out on visits to the cinema and such like. This needs thinking about.
The reality of keeping livestock for food production will at some point have to be faced.
A good-sized piece of land will allow you to have a large wind turbine that will produce all or most of your electricity.
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