I don't know how much you need to cook if your electricity goes out but I have one of these:
http://www.idealtruevalue.com/servlet/the-138843/Detail
I have used that during a power outtage. But, I also have a "hobo stove" I don't know what else you call it. But, you use an empty large can, like a restaurant size huge can. Turn it upside down and using an old can opener like we used to open a soda can with you punch 3 or 4 holes on the SIDE - not top - of the can. Turn the can around and punch 4 more holes on the opposite side. That flat top of the upside down can then becomes your burner. For the flame use an old washed tuna can. Cut some cardboard strips the same width as the height of the tuna can. Curl the strips up in spirals and stuff them in the tuna can in a swirl. The more of the cardboard the longer your fire will last. THEN, melt parafin and pour it in the tuna can over the cardboard swirl to about 1/8 inch below the cardboard. The cardboard will absorb some of the parafin. Light the edges of the cardboard when it's time to cook. Place the large can upside down over the tuna can. In a few minutes you'll have the "burner" hot enough to cook.
I have fried bacon, made coffee and heated soup over these. I keep several tuna cans filled and ready in case of emergencies. I also have my little sterno stove like I copied the link to and I have several cans of sterno to go with it. The sterno gets old so you have to replace it from time to time. We camp so I just rotate my supply.
Wow great idea. I also like the little sterno cooker and it’s cheap too.
I used to keep sterno on hand when I lived in California because of the threat of earthquakes.
Thank you for the detailed explanation of how to make the cooker out of the coffee and tuna cans. Very easy to understand. :)