The Batch

The Batch is an off grid cottage with no mains electricity, gas, water drainage or phone. It is a good example of what can be done to provide modern facilities through the use of technology and enable a high degree of self sufficiency.

Features:

Low cost                       Loft insulation, draught proofing and basic heating controls.

Higher cost                   Internal lime and hemp plaster insulation, LED lighting, low energy fridge and washing machine, condensing liquid propane gas boiler for emergency use only, 8 solar PV panels and lead acid battery storage. 

Heating                         Small solid fuel Rayburn using 40 x 20kg sacks of smokeless fuel per annum for heat and hot water in winter, otherwise hot water via immersion heater powered by PV.

Shower                         Gravity fed.

Cooking                        1 x 47kg liquid propane gas bottle per annum for gas cooker.

Sewage                        Reed bed digester needing minimal maintenance—tank emptied biennially.

Water                           Spring which runs low 2—3 months each year but adequate water storage with 2 x 1000 L storage tanks so have never run out.

The PV and battery storage provides electricity for 10 month of the year. The property gets no direct sun for January / February hence Marlec 1200T wind turbine about to be installed. The turbine is on site to see and discuss, but it is not yet operational.

Directions: The Batch is at the top of Batch Valley, between the fords (no car access please). Please park in one of the two Batch Valley car parks below the ford (donation to NT appreciated), walk up the bridle path about 10 minutes above ford. The Batch is the first house you come to (on the left). There are about 12 low steps up to the front door.