As it says on the title page, this book by Carol Robb is a step-by-step guide for developing energy and water sources and mastering growing techniques to safeguard your family against any disaster.
The book warned that systems sometimes break. She began in the introduction by reminding us that over 3000 individual companies run our power grids in the US. The grid is divided into three regional grids: Eastern, Western, and Texas. High-voltage transformers interconnect power across the country. The transformers take raw power from the power plant and convert the electricity into safe and usable voltages for places like homes, offices, and factories. If something happens to the transformer, these places have no power. Replacing a transformer could take 12 to 18 months. If one transformer goes out, they usually divert electricity from another transformer. Because the grids are interconnected, a problem in one grid can vastly affect the grids on the whole regional grid.
In the book she goes into detail about how we can produce our own power using the best means possible. In some areas solar power might be best utilized. In other areas, wind power could be preferable. Other aspects of energy production are considered as well. Not only is electrical creation considered, but also wood heat and water heating.
From there, she discusses water. Even though, most of the time we don’t even think about turning the tap and letting the water flow, water can be a big issue in an off the grid situation. The book demonstrates ways to not just how to store an abundant supply, but also what to do with waste water that also accumulates.
The book doesn’t stop with energy production and water either. It shares data regarding building an off-grid shelter as how to raise a garden and livestock. The book is full of graphs and charts and is the perfect first book for anyone looking to secure their home, energy, water, and food production against long-term grid situations or as simply a hedge against run away inflation or as a means of protecting the environment.
In my opinion, this book deserves a two thumbs up! I recommend it for anyone who wants to go off grid fast or even slow.