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.
Totally agree with your thoughts.
Growing up very poor, you learn to improvise and adapt. My Father did as well.
We had the best merry go round in our yard. It was the rear axel of a 53 Plymouth, buried with the one end sticking out of the ground. A 16 ft Plank bolted to the rim and that thing would fly.
Prepping is more about sustainability than stockpiling.
The walk in and freezer is so we don’t lose the meat if a cow goes down. This way we can dress and hang them even in the hottest weather. The butcher shops are usually busy and can’t squeeze in or deal with injured animals.
It hurts to throw over 1,000 lbs of meat on the compost pile.
The entire unit was less than $2,000 at auction and is in excellent condition, including compressors.
We have Amish neighbors that run their refrigeration compressors on diesel engines. If there is a way to adapt and overcome an obstacle, it will be done. It’s more fun than work.
Heck, even my Dewalt shop saw runs on air. Adapt and overcome.
A 45 tray sheet pan cart from the bakery makes the best dehydrator. With a little modification it is also an egg incubator.
I look at things based upon potential, not a pile of scrap.
(: