High winds caused another utility company power outage early Saturday morning. I was sleeping and didn't notice it at first, but then it got very cold in the house. I switched my stove (corn-burning fireplace insert) to battery power and connected bathroom lights so the kids could get ready for church.

My small PV system has come to the rescue on several occasions in the past year. Power from the system kept us warm, kept water pipes from freezing and bursting, kept food from spoiling, and provided electricity for lights, communications, and entertainment. Recently, some of my neighbors had to move out of their homes when a severe ice storm caused a power outage that lasted more than a week. The cost of dealing with that outage alone for the average family could almost have paid for a PV system like the one I have.

The economics of solar PV extend far beyond comparing the cost of the system with the cost of power from the utility company. My system is small, and growing, but it already meets our basic needs. With each upgrade we gain additional functionality.

On the other hand, if your utility power never fails, and you expect the rates remain reasonable, there is no need to consider an alternative system. Perhaps you live in a warmer climate, and are not concerned with a loss of power for heat. If you want to continue to purchase electricity, most of which is produced by coal-fired power plants that poison water sources and spews out carbon monoxide, that's your choice. I chose to prepare for emergencies and to be as kind to the environment as I can. I try to help others do the same by writing about my experiences on my blog:

http://solarjohn.blogspot.com

John