Off the Grid
66 Entries, 23 Prizes
As more people explore ways to live sustainably and independently, the idea of going “off the grid” has taken on new meaning. The Off the Grid Contest is all about creating projects that embrace self-sufficiency without reliance on public utilities like electricity, water, sewer, or gas, and instead use independent, resourceful systems.
We’re looking for builds that rethink how everyday needs can be met through creative problem-solving. This could mean renewable energy setups, water collection and filtration systems, low-tech cooking solutions, composting designs, or anything that supports a lifestyle rooted in independence and resilience. Whether your project is fully off-grid or simply inspired by the mindset, the focus is on thoughtful, self-reliant design.
This contest is a chance to explore how making and building can reduce dependency on centralized systems while increasing adaptability. You might design something portable for remote environments, develop a backup system for emergencies, or create a permanent solution for off-grid living. From simple, clever hacks to more complex builds, projects of all skill levels are encouraged.
Take a look at the resources around you, consider what you can create on your own, and start building a solution that works beyond the grid.
We have four total judges' prizes: Autodesk Design & Make Award for best use of Autodesk software in the creation of your project, and three Student Judges’ Prizes for the best Instructables made by actively enrolled students.
The Honeycomb - a Solar-Powered Water Filter Station (Prototype Concept)
by TheSimonSays in Water
578 Views
AlgaeSense : Grow Algae Automatically As an Off Grid Protein and Nutrient Source Using Machine Learning
by bhuvanmakes in Arduino
507 Views
SIGNAL: Pocket Off-Grid Morse Pacer & Emergency Beacon
by The Uncertified Engineer in Survival
1074 Views
Solar-powered Desulfator for Off-grid Lead-acid Batteries
by thelastjack131 in Electronics
601 Views
I Built a Doorbell That Powers Itself When You Press It
by GeekyElectronics in Electronics
516 Views
SOSync: a Multifunctional Off-Grid Communication & Emergency Device
by Mr_Electronaut in Assistive Tech
6895 Views
The Off-Grid Cup Phone — a Simple Phone With No Electricity
by Judy_hop in Costumes & Cosplay
148 Views
AquaCharge Turbine - a Portable Water Turbine and Hand Crank Generator for Living Off-grid
by sam_havenhand in Gadgets
2097 Views
Hand-Crank Flashlight Made From a Micro Servo – No Batteries Needed!
by CrazyScience in Electronics
4601 Views
Tinder Tool / Emergency Candle - Waterproof, Long Lasting - Keyring, Two Pocket Sizes. Simple and Sooo Useful.
by eastfamilyreddish in Fire
985 Views
LIA — an Open-Source, Off-Grid LoRa Pet Tracker (No Subscription, No Cloud)
by Jon G Aguado in Wearables
5038 Views
