Thoughts on Solar (with battery storage so you have off-grid capability)?
Are the roof panels an invitation for looters to target your home, and are they worth the risk?
Major solar installer, home improvement contractor, or self-install?
How much solar - enough to run everything you use now (30 to 42 or more panels), or enough for subsistence (6-18 panels)?
Other thoughts/considerations?
Thoughts on generators? [how much power, how much fuel is prudent, opsec considerations, gas/diesel/propane (anyone have the instructions for biodiesel and actually tried it for practice?), etc.]
All professional installers I've seen do not provide for power storage. Only a system that compliments the grid and doesn't run without it. Batteries are somewhat dangerous and there are numerous code issues for installing inside your home. The only legal way to have indoor batteries would be UL-listed UPS systems but they cost a fortune.
Putting together a battery bank from marine batteries is not complicated and reasonably priced. I would recommend an outdoor enclosure and completely independent wiring from your home (basically outdoor extension cords that you'd plug into the batteries only when needed).
That way you avoid code and permit issues. Don't go cheap on the charge controller or inverter since mischarging batteries can result in explosion.
Also, some jurisdictions may require permits for anything electrical attached to your home. This includes low voltage panels/wiring on the roof. You can avoid that with free-standing panels.
That reminds me, I was reading some articles on getting kits to change generators to combo of ethanol fuel, and instructions on how to make it. I think I also read that people made their own fuel during the shortages of depression/WWII era.
We’ll stick with wood for long term heat and cooking though.
I think evidence that you have power lights at night will draw far more attention than the panels themselves.
Depends what you are prepping for short term gas (Natual or Propane) powered generator. Long term Solar, but you can’t just live anywhere it has to be somewhere with lots and lots of sunshine.
You need to be a power miser. What can you get your absoute min on power need?
Me a small fan, battery changer, a few dc ligths for 4-6 hours a night. I am look at building something portable. That I can roll out during the day and roll back in at night.