Renewables For Tourism
5-Star Power for Your Glamping & Holiday Site.
Without the grid.
No monthly energy bills, no connection fee to national grid.
An average return on investment of 4-7 years.
- Qualified Installers
- Wind & Solar Systems
- Bespoke for your holiday home
- UK Based Business
Off-grid Holiday Homes
The Real Cost of Connecting to the Grid in 2026
Many landowners start their journey by requesting a quote from the National Grid (formerly Western Power). With remote connection costs often spiralling between £15,000 and £50,000+ due to “Assessment & Design” fees and complex trenching, a bespoke off-grid system isn’t just the “eco” choice—it’s the smartest financial move. At Offgrid Western, we design systems that typically pay for themselves in a fraction of the time a grid connection would, while giving you total energy independence.
We don’t just install these systems; we live with them. As owners of our own Canopy & Stars-hosted cabin, we understand the specific pressures of the luxury glamping market. We know that a guest doesn’t want to think about “battery voltages”—they want a hot shower, a charged phone, and a warm welcome. We build our systems to be invisible, ensuring your guests enjoy a seamless “plug and play” experience without the risk of tripping the power.
Navigating 2026 Regulations: C5 Use Class & Compliance
The holiday let landscape changed in 2026 with the introduction of the C5 Use Class and the mandatory National Register for Short-Term Lets.
Safety First: Our installations are fully compliant with the latest fire safety and electrical standards required for your registration.
Efficiency Matters: With the 2026 push for “Sustainable by Nature” certifications, an Offgrid Western system helps your property stand out to the growing demographic of eco-conscious travellers.
The Benefits
01
No connection fee, no monthly bill, no energy price rises.
02
We’ve got accessible renewable energy solutions for your Devon holiday home regardless of its size and location with full installation.
03
Our solar and wind energy systems are a renewable and sustainable source of power to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Something more and more travellers are looking for.
04
We know that the decision to switch to renewable energy is a big one. We promise the very best installation with guarantees on parts to protect your investment.
Scalable Systems for Every Budget
Whether you are starting with a single “unplugged” pod or a multi-unit luxury retreat, our systems are modular.
The Entry-Level Cabin: Focused on high-efficiency LED lighting, USB charging, and water pumps.
The Luxury Lodge: Capable of powering 230V appliances, coffee machines, and even energy-efficient “off-grid” hair dryers.
The Future-Proof Microgrid: For owners planning multiple units, we can design a cluster system that shares power across your entire site.
Take a look at some of our work.
Off-Grid Class Q Barn Conversion – Solar & Battery System Case Study
Off-grid Class Q barn conversion in Devon powered by solar PV, battery storage and modern heating. A real-world renewable energy case study.
Mid-Devon Farmhouse Solar, Battery & Heat Pump Case Study | Offgrid Western
A Mid-Devon farmhouse upgraded with solar PV, battery storage and a heat pump, cutting energy and transport costs by over £4,000 per year.
1. Stop the “Grid-Entry” Sunk Cost
Connecting a remote cabin to the grid in the South West now often costs £25,000 to £50,000+.
The Problem: That is a “sunk cost”—money handed to the utility company that you’ll never see again.
The Solution: Invest that same budget into an Offgrid Western system. You turn an expense into a tangible assetthat increases your property value.
2. Escape Rising “Standing Charges”
Since the 60% hike in network levies this year, grid-connected owners pay heavy daily fees even when their cabins are empty.
The Gain: With our systems, your monthly bill is £0.00. You own the power, so you keep 100% of your booking revenue.
3. Command a “Premium Nightly Rate”
Data shows guests on platforms like Canopy & Stars now pay up to 20% more for “Net-Zero” stays.
The Hook: Your off-grid status is a powerful marketing tool. Guests aren’t just booking a cabin; they are booking a “guilt-free” sustainable escape.
4. Fast Payback: 4–7 Years
When you avoid the grid connection fee and eliminate monthly bills, most systems pay for themselves in under 6 years.
The Long Game: Victron gear is built for a 15–20 year life. That’s over a decade of pure, bill-free profit.
The Bottom Line: ROI in 2026
In 2026, the financial landscape for rural development in the South West has reached a tipping point. With grid infrastructure at capacity and network levies rising, energy independence is no longer just “green”—it is the most profitable way to run a holiday business.
| Cost Factor | National Grid Connection | Offgrid Western Victron System |
| Initial Outlay | £25,000+ (Sunk Cost) | £12,000 – £18,000 (Asset) |
| Fixed Monthly Costs | High (2026 Standing Charges) | £0.00 |
| Energy Unit Cost | Variable (Market Dependent) | £0.00 |
| Property Value | Standard | Premium “Eco” Valuation |
| Total 10-Year Cost | £45,000+ | Initial Outlay Only |
Common questions
How much money could I save?
How much does it cost to install?
Our off-grid holiday systems range from £8000 to £15,000. This really does depend on which kit you choose with our installation service. Get in touch to discuss any support you might need.
Are there grants avaiable?
There are still some grants available to those looking to improve the energy efficiency of their properties and reduce the environmental impact. The best place to check is with your local authority as most government support is currently geared towards improving inefficient properties and supporting those in fuel poverty.
Do I need planning permission?
A single domestic wind turbine or roof mounted solar panels are normally covered under ‘permitted development’ regulations and therefore do not need planning permission before installation. There are of course exceptions to every rule and if you’re unsure please do contact us to discuss your individual circumstances.
Can guests use hair dryers?
Yes. While many off-grid sites ban them, we can specify high-draw inverters (like the Victron MultiPlus-II) that handle luxury guest demands safely.
What if my property is in the shade?
Of course a south facing, unshaded roof would generate the most power but that’s not to say it’s the only option. If your holiday home is in the shade, there are other options, including ground panels where you can control the direction and angle of your installation to capture as much Devon sunshine as you can. Whatever your set up, we can help suggest a solution that works with your home. Please do get in touch to discuss.
Will it work in a British winter?
Absolutely. We use oversized solar arrays and high-capacity Lithium (LiFePO4) storage, and in some cases small efficient backup generators, to ensure your cabin remains “winter-ready” even in the depths of December.
Is it difficult to manage?
Not with our remote monitoring. We can set up “Owner Alerts” on your phone, so you know your battery status before your guest even arrives.
What about EV charging?
This is the #1 request for 2026. We offer smart-integrated EV solutions that prioritize cabin power while letting guests top up their vehicles using surplus solar.
We're able to give you a free quote for your project
Just as every home is utterly unique, so is every renewable energy solution. We’ll work with you to understand the specific requirements of your project and provide a quote for a renewable energy solution that works.
