What started as a small online shop run from a garage has since grown into Canada’s most trusted retailer for off–grid living solutions—powering cabins, cottages, RVs, boats, and homesteads across the country.“We built this business from the…
For many cottagers, going off-grid isn’t about giving things up—it’s about gaining freedom. The freedom to disconnect, explore, and enjoy life on your own terms, without being tethered to municipal power or water systems. But in 2007, when Gordon Stewart first started renovating his family’s remote A-frame cabin, finding reliable off-grid gear was a challenge.
“There were almost no companies providing everything you’d need in one place,” Gord recalls. “I had to piece together solar power, water systems, and heating solutions from different sources, and there wasn’t much information available.”
That challenge sparked an idea: what if there was an off-grid store that had everything?
From garage startup to Canada’s leading off-grid retailer
Fast forward to 2013, and The Cabin Depot was born. What started as a small online shop run from a garage has since grown into Canada’s most trusted retailer for off-grid living solutions—powering cabins, cottages, RVs, boats, and homesteads across the country.
“We built this business from the ground up,” says Gord. “First with an online store, then a tiny 400-square-foot retail space, and eventually, our off-grid-powered headquarters in New Brunswick.”
Today, The Cabin Depot operates their flagship 15,000 square foot Fredericton, NB location which includes three showrooms where visitors can see their solar, heating, and water systems in action, running entirely off-grid.
Practicing what they preach
What makes The Cabin Depot different? They live what they sell.
Many retailers offer off-grid gear, but The Cabin Depot is run by people who have actually lived off-grid. Their team tests every product themselves—from solar power kits to tankless water heaters—ensuring they work as promised before recommending them to customers.
“We don’t just pick the cheapest options,” says Gord. “We travel to trade shows and factories around the world, building relationships with manufacturers to bring in the best off-grid innovations available.”
This careful curation process has helped them introduce game-changing products to the Canadian market, including:
- All-in-one solar power systems that are easier to install and more affordable than ever.
- Ultra-efficient heating solutions that keep off-grid cabins warm all winter.
- Portable power stations that provide backup energy for seasonal cottagers.
- Advanced water filtration and septic solutions designed for remote properties.
Off-grid living, without compromise
For cottagers, the idea of going off-grid used to mean sacrificing comfort—but The Cabin Depot is proving otherwise.
“There’s a big misconception that off-grid means ‘roughing it,’” says Gord. “But with modern solar, backup power, and efficient appliances, you can have all the comforts of home—without relying on the grid.”
Whether you’re setting up a simple solar panel for weekend use or fully disconnecting from the grid, The Cabin Depot helps customers find the perfect off-grid setup for their needs and budget. Gord personally recommends Camplux tankless water heaters for instant hot showers, Unique solar/DC refrigerators to keep food fresh, and EG4 Electronics power systems for reliable energy solutions. For those looking for backup power, he swears by the Kedron® PowerGEN 20Kw LPG generator for peace of mind, while the Laveo Dry Flush toilet remains one of his top choices for a hassle-free, waterless sanitation solution—perfect for remote cabins and cottages.
What’s next for The Cabin Depot?
The company is expanding fast—with new franchise locations opening in Ontario and beyond. “We’ve seen massive demand,” says Gord. “More people are looking for off-grid solutions that make sense for their lifestyle, whether it’s for a cottage, cabin, or remote home.”
With the latest solar innovations, heating advancements, and DIY-friendly systems, off-grid living is more accessible than ever—and The Cabin Depot is leading the way.
Thinking about going off-grid? Visit thecabindepot.ca to explore the latest off-grid solutions—and don’t miss your chance to check them out in person at the Spring Cottage Life Show this season!
Source: Off-grid living solutions
