Any homeowner that is building a house in the country and that wants to be primarily self-sufficient if possible should look into the different energy and water options that are available. You can have a house that has all the amenities and benefits of a home that is connected to city gas and water, and that gets electricity from a local electrical company, but without the high bills and hassle. Here are some of the features you should consider getting throughout the property so you can function more independently when possible.

Solar Roofing Panels

Solar roofing panels can be placed on the backside of the house if you don't like the way they look, and they can soak up UV rays all day to help power your home. This could substantially reduce how much energy you need to use when you are home, and it could even prevent you from needing any power. For days when there isn't enough solar energy, you could have a backup generator to help power the home.

Underground Propane Tank

Have propane as your gas option for heating and hot water instead of a natural gas line. These tanks are filled and you don't have to pay bills or fees afterwards until you are out and the unit needs to be filled again. These can also be placed underground now, unlike in the past, so you don't have to worry about where it will set around your house, or how close to your home it will have to be.

Well for Water

A well for water is one of the easiest ways to get clean drinking water and water for the property, and it's to use at your discretion. You don't have to worry about paying high bills to water your grass, not having water if something happens and the city water gets contaminated, or having a water bill that goes up regularly because of the costs of city water.

Geothermal Heating and Cooling

A geothermal heating pump to cool and heat your home greatly reduces a need for heating and cooling appliances, and the use of energy and natural gas. This type of unit cools by removing hot wet air, and heats by taking warmth that already exists around and below your home.

If you want to build a home where you don't have to rely on the utilities and things that the government and city regulate and control, look into some of these options. They will help make your home very self-sufficient.