
Challenge
A New Zealand household needed a reliable energy solution to transition to an off-grid lifestyle.
Solution
– FranklinWH System: The resident chose the FranklinWH System as the primary power source, becoming the first in New Zealand to use it for off-grid living.
– Backup Generator Integration: The homeowners integrated an existing generator with the system, which automatically triggers the generator as needed.
Result
– Comfortable Off-Grid Living: Achieved a modern, functional home without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
– Financial Savings: Eliminated power bills while maintaining the same energy usage patterns as a grid-tied household.
– Improved Lifestyle: Experienced greater contentment, happiness, and environmental sustainability.
The Power Source Conundrum for an off-Grid Living Lifestyle
Stephen and Maddie Holiday decided to live off-grid in New Zealand. They purchased a property several years ago, when it was a barren plot of land. Their decision to develop the property was spurred during the COVID-19 lockdowns, which prompted a reevaluation of their values and lifestyles.
Since the lockdowns, they have been developing the property into a sustainable and self-sufficient home, deciding to focus on a lifestyle that avoids the “hustle and bustle” of city life.
Initially, they explored various energy generation options, including generators, wind turbines, and the possibility of connecting to the electricity grid. However, they finally chose not to connect to the grid for two main reasons: the cost of doing so and their desire for sustainability. Rather, they became the first people in New Zealand to use the FranklinWH System as the core energy solution for off-grid living.
FranklinWH System: Enabling a Fully Functional Home While Remaining Off-Grid
The FranklinWH System is compatible with backup generators, which is crucial for off-grid living since they need extra backup power in addition to the aPower batteries. Stephen explains, “if we needed the generator, the system automatically monitors that itself, so no need to concern about any backup power at all.” This is what first appealed to them because it helps get rid of the constant worry of running out of power, especially in an off-grid setting.
Additionally, they installed solar power, which has brought a “night and day” improvement in their ability to handle their energy demands. Stephen said “with solar power, I feel there are no restrictions to our energy consumption any more, which is a stark contrast to what we have expected from an off-grid lifestyle”.
Stephen did not want their off-grid life to feel scrappy or uncomfortable, like the stereotypical image of a remote shack built from pallets. Instead, they wanted a comfortable, fully functional home while remaining off-grid. He emphasized they haven’t noticed any significant difference in their daily power usage with the FranklinWH System, and even when using energy-intensive appliances such as a tumble dryer in the evenings, the battery power remains sufficient. In fact, they’ve consistently had enough energy stored to last them through the day, even on bad weather days, when solar generation is minimal.

An Eco-Living Life Filled with the Sense of Comfort and Contentment
Stephen also shared his experiences of using a standalone generator. “While the generator serves as a backup, relying on it as a primary power source would be challenging, especially because we don’t always have the physical strength to start it manually.” The FranklinWH System works so efficiently that they’ve only needed to use their generator sparingly, and they are able to maintain the battery capacity above 75%, even in the mornings after the previous night’s consumption. By the time 10:00 a.m. comes around, the battery is often back to full capacity.

The overall impact on their lives has been significant. “The solar and energy management system has rapidly improved our lifestyle, offering a sense of incredible comfort and contentment.” They now enjoy the simple pleasure of walking into their home, flicking on a light switch, and having it work without worrying about utility bills. The peacefulness that comes with not having the bills while running their household like any other household has made them reflect on why they didn’t make this decision earlier and why more people don’t pursue off-grid living with a system such as theirs.
The Holiday’s journey toward off-grid living highlights the convenience, efficiency, and lifestyle improvements that come with the FranklinWH System, as well as the satisfaction of living sustainably and independently from the grid. The experience has led the couple to feel happier, more content, and empowered in their new home.
Testimonials that will be put on the picture
Stephen Holiday, FranklinWH homeowner: “There are many occasions where we’ve had to use the tumble dryer in the evenings, but it hasn’t depleted our battery at all. Having a system like we have over here, you don’t have a power bill and you run your household just like you would any other normal household. I think the happiness and the whole content level has significantly gone up.”