Kingston joins a world-wide off-grid movement
Meshcore offers small, simple, cheap communications alternative
AN EMERGING technology that harkens back to the Blackberry, radio and even landline telephones is showing promise as a simple, low-power solution to critical communications gaps in our internet-dependent world.
In Kingston, it could also become an accessible, affordable way for people without homes to stay connected.
Meshcore is a decentralized, inexpensive communications system that enables users to send and receive text messages without the need for cellular networks or the internet. Created in 2024 after a cyclone devastated parts of New Zealand, these off-grid “meshes”, or networks, are now being developed worldwide, including in Canada, says Andrew Gagnon, a local enthusiast and paramedic.
He’s part of a group of 20 or so users who are exploring the potential of Meshcore to connect the Kingston area with companion networks in the region. He and some paramedic co-workers have been following the progress of other meshes in Eastern Ontario and wanted to try it here, he says. “Quinte and Ottawa have had some decent successes, and we wanted to develop our own network.”
The group has already created a system between Sydenham and Harrowsmith and is working towards connecting to Smiths Falls, which would mean users can communicate with people in Ottawa. Continued expansion to the west would connect users to users in Toronto, which has a robust mesh network.
No power? No problem
The system is simple, using “repeaters” — solar-panel-like boxes with antennas mounted on existing towers or trees — that send and receive text messages to hand-held devices. (The solar repeaters have battery backups that can last for several weeks.) Messages move between repeaters and devices (“nodes”), independent of satellites, cell towers and the internet. If one of those nodes fails, the system automatically finds another route. The beauty of the system is that it works when the rest of the communications grid is down, Gagnon says.
“It’s a cross between how a cell network sends texts, and the capabilities of the old copper-line telephones. Messages hop the same way as in any other network, but it’s also resilient, like that old phone.”
The system has other advantages as well. It’s simple to set up, and it’s accessible, because it uses a radio spectrum that’s unregulated, so anyone can use it. Repeaters can be bought for $200 or less, or built for as little as $60. Companion devices can be bought for a one-time fee of $40.. No data plan is required to use them. It makes wireless messaging vastly more affordable.
Gagnon and his group are continuing to seek out repeater locations and expand their mesh. “We’re looking to build resilience in the network, then broaden our horizons.”
A crucial connector
While the main uses for this kind of wireless platform are military, search and rescue and emergency services, one group in Kingston is excited about it potential for another group of users: those without homes. Our Livable Solutions has been working with Gagnon’s group on a pilot project that would provide Meshcore services to the homeless community.
“I’ve been looking for a way for our street outreach team to communicate reliably with people without homes,” says Chrystal Wilson, Acting Executive Director of OLS. “I think Meshcore might be the solution.”
An entrepreneur with a background in software design and development for the telecom sector, Wilson understands the technology. “The system would enable individuals to communicate directly with OLS’s street outreach team and with each other, without needing wi-fi or cell service.”
She has been helping the mesh team identify locations where repeaters could be sited, such as church spires. “This group already has a couple of repeaters in Kingston and estimate that we need 10 to cover the whole city.”
Everyone benefits
As someone deeply embedded in the homeless community, Wilson sees Meshcore as a broad-spectrum solution. Faster communication with vulnerable individuals means faster emergency response times. Being able to send reminders and follow-ups means appointments can be kept. More efficient outreach means support workers can locate individuals, and being able to stay in touch with their supports and services creates a sense of connection and belonging.
But this is also about benefits to everyone, she says. “The key is that no one person controls the communication system and it will work even when power is out and cell towers are down. This network builds community resilience. In times of emergency, having a decentralized, accessible communication system can make a critical difference for everyone in our community.”
OLS has reached out to potential sponsors and private donors to support development of this project, she says, and will be contributing its own funds to help establish a robust system in Kingston, to support people without homes.
To that end, she invites interested community members to a community information session about Meshcore. The Zoom meeting takes place Monday, May 11 at 7 pm. You can email info@ourlivable.solutions for the Meeting Link.