Can You Live Off Grid in Newfoundland 

Newfoundland and Labrador are located in eastern Canada and have one of the most extensive histories in the country. The population of Newfoundland and Labrador is approximately 521k. It is neither expanding nor declining, although most of the younger generation tends to leave the province. Newfoundland and Labrador used to be a self-governing province of the British Empire which is great for off grid living.

Newfoundland and Labrador is not a good area for off-grid living since the population density is too low, the unemployment rate is too high, and the majority of the province’s economy is based on fishing and mining, both of which have been declining in recent decades. On the other side, this province permits you to cultivate some crops. The local government provides several incentives and refunds for solar and wind generating systems.

Following many referendums, this province officially joined Canada in 1949. This province was previously known as Newfoundland, and the “Labrador” section was added in 2001. This province has a relatively low population density, particularly in Labrador, as Newfoundland accounts for around 90%. There is only one city in Newfoundland and Labrador with over 100,000 people.

Because of the province’s low population density, most of it is unspoiled, with many reserves and national parks. Newfoundland and Labrador is not popular tourist destination, which is a huge advantage for anyone looking to live off the grid in this region.

Should You Live Off Grid in Newfoundland?

What’s the Climate in Newfoundland? 

Newfoundland and Labrador have two climates: humid continental in Labrador and south Newfoundland and subarctic in the north. Summer temperatures range between 61°F and 77°F (16°C and 25°C), while winter temperatures hover around 32°F ( 0C). During the winter, temperatures in the northern areas of Newfoundland are typically below freezing, and Arctic winds blow on occasion.

Interested in another province with a similar climate? I recommend checking out New Brunswick!

What are the Best Crops to Grow in Newfoundland? 

The terrain’s local climate and limited fertility make most of this region unsuitable for crop cultivation. Crops can be grown in the southern sections of Labrador, but not in large quantities. Potatoes, carrots, turnips, beets, cabbage, and various berries are the most regularly produced crops. If you wish to cultivate your own food in this province, the greatest option is to grow potatoes; nevertheless, don’t get your hopes up because most potato crops fail to owe to high humidity during some years.

What’s Freshwater Availability Like in Newfoundland? 

Newfoundland and Labrador have an abundance of freshwater. Because the population density is low, most of the freshwater is clean. The average yearly rainfall is roughly 57′′ (1400 mm), while the average yearly snowfall is around 100′′. However, it can get as high as 300′′ in the northern portions. The majority of the cities and towns are on the shore. The groundwater in some parts is contaminated by saltwater.

What Type of Wildlife is Found in Newfoundland? 

There are many creatures in Newfoundland and Labrador, both on land and on the sea. The most prevalent creatures are woodland caribou, lynx, muskrat, foxes, black bears, moose, and otters. The most prevalent freshwater fish are Arctic char, northern pike, whitefish, landlocked salmon, and brook trout. Atlantic salmon, herring, mackerel, Atlantic cod, Atlantic halibut, turbot, and redfish are among the saltwater fish.

If you want to fish or hunt, you’ll need to check local permits and regulations.

How can you Generate Off Grid Power in Newfoundland? 

Solar power: Although this province receives enough sunshine throughout the year, the local environment isn’t ideal for generating electricity using solar panels. The good news is that this province provides many incentives, such as the take-charge Program, which is a rebate available to NL Hydro and NL Power customers. Local governments also provide a Home Energy Savings Program subsidy, primarily for low-income families, and has a $5,000 ceiling.

Wind power: Wind turbines may be found along the coastlines. While they are rather expensive to install, they provide far more power than solar panels. Wind energy subsidies and rebates are also available in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Does Newfoundland Have any Off Grid Laws? 

Living off the grid is allowed in Newfoundland and Labrador, and it is a way of life in many towns. Because of the low population density, this province has few schools, most of which are in the main cities. You can also homeschool your children, which is something that many people who live in rural places do; just make sure you obey the local homeschooling laws.

Nova Scotia is another province with virtually zero off grid living laws. I recommend reading my Complete Guide.

What’s Road Access Like in Newfoundland?

Newfoundland and Labrador have poor road access; the province has few highways, many of which are impassable during the winter. There will be no issues with road access in the larger cities. Still, many smaller settlements have no road connectivity, and flights to these locations can be costly, especially during the winter.

What’s the Price of Land in Newfoundland? 

The cost of land and property is nearly identical to that of Ontario. Because of the low population density, there is little need for new housing. While new housing complexes are periodically created in larger cities, they tend to be more expensive.

What’s the Price of Living in Newfoundland? 

The cost of living in Newfoundland and Labrador is greater than the national average. The majority of the population is concentrated in a few locations where few enterprises compete for basic requirements. You might expect the cost of living to be lower in distant places and smaller villages. Still, the truth is that the cost of living in these areas is considerably greater, owing to a lack of road access and the need for things to be flown in.

What’s the Job Market Like in Newfoundland? 

The unemployment rate in Newfoundland and Labrador is 12.4 percent. It is rising every year; there are few industries where people can work. The current minimum wage is $11.65, although there is a strong drive to raise it. Commercial fishing, agriculture, mining, manufacturing, transportation, and even tourism are the most important industries.

Are There Natural Disasters in Newfoundland? 

Earthquakes, storms, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, and tsunamis are Newfoundland and Labrador’s most prevalent natural catastrophes. Because of its low population density, this province is relatively protected from natural calamities.

Can You Live Off Grid in Newfoundland?

Overall, I cannot recommend Newfoundland and Labrador for off grid living. While a low population density region may be ideal for off grid living, in this case, it only raises the cost of living because many locations have no access to highways.

If you want to live off grid in Canada but not sure where, I recommend checking out Prince Edward Island.