I use standalone and only turn it on when I am going to be using maps or something I need GPS location for.
There are two GPS icons. One is to the left on the notification bar and that is only on when GPS location is being used, the other is the emergency 911 crosshair next to the alarm icon.....no way to turn this off yet unfortunately. For this you will most likely need to install a custom ROM or flash a fix when/if they become available.