[silent majority rising]

Might want to consider a generator. We have a Generac that is capable of running all the power in the house and comes on automatically when electrical power from the grid is lost. We have it fueled by propane, and have a large enough tank to keep us with electricity for at least a month or two at full power (a lot longer if we ration by zones). They are expensive systems (our costs $12,000, but we survived 15 below temperatures and didn’t lose all of the freezer food in the process.

[Pollard]

we survived 15 below temperatures and didn’t lose all of the freezer food in the process.

Could have brought the food outside if need be but protected from critters of course. Maybe in a shed. -15 is deep freezer temps.

[Bob Ireland]

I sort of envy you guys for your hi tech preps - and their expense. Still, both of you are depending on the system. Your walk in freezer needs dependable power; and your propane generator depends on propane being available and delivered on time.

I had a small solar system that I used for emergency water via a 24VDC deep well pump. My neighbor planted a couple of fast growing trees and soon... the predictable.

Rather than grouse at the neighbor, I decided he provided motivation for expansion. Forgetting that I am 78 years old, I built a large frame about 8 feet off of the ground and purchased two 420w solar panels. With my original 200w panel combination that amounts to about 1kw of generation - on good peak sunny days. I live in Florida so I hope for good results in general. Well, OK; I now have to buy $1200 worth of batteries, a charger and perhaps more inverters than I have now. My investment is substantial also, not to mention my age. But the sun shines brightly most days and I have tried to erect the system reasonably storm proof. I don't think we have ever seen winds here over 50mph.

It is my legacy to my son. This new administration is doing everything that it can to weaken the family and weaken America. They have no public mandate to do it - they are just doing it. I want to be as free as I can from govt controls. There are already rolling blackouts here and there, even in New York City.

We can have all the power we need, but not if we keep electing America hating politicians. If I did this project in California, I would have to provide all my power to the state grid, gaining nothing. America is dying little by little.

[tired&retired]

My generator is a 38KW propane Generac with a 2,000 gallon reserve.

It has the same engine as a Dodge Dakota so it is easy to service and repair.