living off the grid? where is the best place to live?

I don't like extreme heat, 100 to 115 like phoenix. I am just starting to look into this lifestyle and I'm finding it fascinating. I don't own tv, but I love climate control. I can see using the sun for heat, but how do you keep a place cool off the grid?

Public Comments

1. try california, 60 to 80 degrees all the time. Cooling could be the exposure of the sun in relationship to the windows and view of the house. Also you could use running water through the house, a stream, well, or fountain. Lots of insulation would work well in walls, ceilings, floors, attics, etc.
2. I agree about California, but I would expand that to say coastal regions of California. It can get Arizona hot and Utah cold in some parts of the state. The problem is it is pricey there. Perhaps the central or far northern coastal regions would be good. In fact, the far north of California has a very strong tradition of environmentalism and counter-culturalism so you may be able to get a lot of support in your journey.
3. Passive cooling helps keep the temps down in the house. Passive cooling can be shades in the windows, trees, awnings, reflective windows, or maybe better...no windows at all. Another strategy is to have a sod roof. The evaporation off the roof helps cool the structure. (Swamp coolers do the same in the desert southwest.) Several companies have green construction techniques that are suitable platforms for off-grid living. Davis Caves is one. Bale houses, from straw or tire bales, are another possibility.