Off Grid Build was originally launched in 2012, born from a personal dream: building a self-sufficient home in a remote, off-grid location. At the time, I was deep in research mode — exploring solar, water systems, building materials, and anything else that might help me turn that dream into a reality. I created this site as a digital scrapbook to track everything I was learning and to share it with others who might be on a similar path.
While the original property never came to be and the site went quiet for a few years, the desire to live sustainably and build off the grid never left. Now, with better technology, wider access to renewable systems, and a renewed sense of purpose, Off Grid Build is back — with a sharper focus and a broader vision.
What You’ll Find Here
This site explores all aspects of off-grid construction and living — from utilities and energy systems to fixtures, design choices, and the challenges of building independently. Whether you’re planning a full off-grid homestead or just want to understand how to reduce your reliance on traditional infrastructure, you’ll find practical, research-driven content to help guide your journey.
I cover a mix of DIY solutions, commercially available systems, and the grey area in between. Expect deep dives into:
- Solar batteries, power generation, and storage
- Water capture and filtration
- Heating and cooling systems
- Waste management
- Tools, materials, and modular structures
- Remote site planning and survival tech
Building off the grid isn’t just about going rural — it’s about making intentional, sustainable choices that support freedom, resilience, and ownership.
Who’s Behind This?
I’m Jamie, a software engineer by trade and a self-reliance enthusiast at heart. I’ve spent my entire adult life working in tech, but I’ve always had a deep interest in architecture, sustainability, and the idea of building something with my own hands.
Right now, I’m based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, a place that contrasts sharply with the off-grid lifestyle — but also offers incredible access to tools, ideas, and landscapes that inspire this project. Whether it’s the mountains of Da Lat or remote areas along the Mekong, this region is full of opportunities for sustainable, off-grid living.
I research obsessively, experiment when I can, and write with the aim of making complex systems easier to understand. This site is as much about documenting my learning as it is about helping others get started.
Supporting the Site
Writing in-depth guides and reviews takes time — which is why Off Grid Build is supported through affiliate links, sponsored content (only for products I trust), and maybe even merchandise down the line.
The long-term vision? To create a full guidebook and resource hub that covers everything needed to plan and build a complete off-grid setup.
If you’re a brand, supplier, or someone working on an interesting off-grid solution — I’d love to hear from you.
Have ideas, suggestions, or a project you’d like featured?
Reach out at brands [at] offgridbuild [dot] co — let’s build something better, together.