[I see my hands]

I agree with you 100%. Well put too.

Unfortunately for me a five year plan has just begun that eventuates with me living off the grid.

I'm learning about solar and wind now. It gets complicated fast, it's a jungle out there. Unsophisticated charlatans abound, so.. it becomes necessary to become expert in all related fields to stay on top of things. Sheesh!

Plus, when I build the tech will still be in its infancy (crap) and more expensive by far than it will ever be again.

Right now it seems so arduous and expensive to live "normal" off the grid that I am considering saying to hell with electricity (save a small DC charger for cell etc). Turn off our minds, relax and flat downstream.

[Stegall Tx]

Unfortunately for me a five year plan has just begun that eventuates with me living off the grid.

Have you checked out the publications available from Sandia National Labs? They have some good stuff that is neither too technical nor whacko. Not terribly current, but it should give you a good start.

And it's already been paid for with your tax dollars.

http://photovoltaics.sandia.gov/

Grab the “Publications” menu and you can download a list of the available docs. I have hard copies, but I think they are all available on the web these days.

GOOD LUCK!