Off-grid and blackout-proof solar for Mullumbimby and Main Arm
Mullum people know what it's like when the river comes up and the power goes out. In the valleys behind town it can stay out a lot longer. We design systems that keep the lights, fridge and water running when that happens, or that let you drop the grid altogether.
What power's like out here
Mullumbimby is in Byron Shire and on Essential Energy's network. Town is fed from the coast, while Main Arm, Upper Main Arm and Wilsons Creek run on long lines up narrow, wet valleys.
The Brunswick River at Mullumbimby peaked at 4.98 m in February 2022, above the 2017 peak of 4.36 m, according to the NSW SES.
This is one of the wettest parts of NSW. That's good for water tanks and hard on solar in winter, so off-grid systems here need more battery and a plan for cloudy weeks.
Blocks run from town lots to steep hinterland acreage, plus multiple-occupancy communities on shared land.
How we work here
The design is done by The Off Grid Shop in Lismore, about 45 minutes away. Install is by a vetted, accredited local partner. You get one design that covers house, studio, pumps and any future EV, and a clear choice between hybrid with backup and full off-grid.
- Tell us about the property on our design form.
- We design the system in-house and send you the design.
- A vetted, accredited local partner installs it. See our recent work.
Common questions
Will a battery keep my house running in a flood outage?
A hybrid system with backup can, if it's designed for it. We work out which circuits stay on and how long the battery lasts before you need sun or a generator.
Is off-grid realistic in a place this wet?
Yes, with the right sizing. We plan for the wettest month and usually include generator backup for long rainy spells.
Do you work in Main Arm and Upper Main Arm?
Yes. Access can be tricky, so we note road and driveway conditions on the design form.
Can I add a battery to my existing solar?
Often yes. Send us your current inverter details and a recent bill and we'll check what works.
Get a custom design
Four quick questions and a designer comes back to you:
- Postcode
- On the grid or off-grid?
- Rough quarterly power bill
- Phone number
Nearby places we cover
Main Arm, Upper Main Arm, Wilsons Creek, Huonbrook, Goonengerry, Coopers Shoot, Myocum, Billinudgel, Ocean Shores hinterland, Mullumbimby Creek
More reading
Get a custom design
Four quick questions and a designer comes back to you: postcode, on the grid or off-grid, rough quarterly power bill, phone number.
Prefer to talk it through? Call or text 0483 927 257.