Twelve Volts for Today

We don't think much about electricity. Flip a switch or push a button and you have power. Power for the lights, the kitchen, and the entertainment center.

What happens when the power goes out?
In 2003, there was a was a massive blackout in the northeast United States. It was an inconvenience. People threw out spoiled food from their refrigerators and freezers. The gas pumps didn't work. Autos were used only when needed.

E.R.s became packed. Even hospitals started to shut down because they had no electricity in order to service the sick.

About two weeks later, the power came back on. Life was good again. For awhile...

The interval between blackouts and brownouts has increased since that time. In many areas, these power blackouts last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Amazingly, we haven't really been paying any attention to this.

The power grid continues to degrade. Attempts to fix it have apparently resulted in temporary shore ups instead of long term solutions.

It's time to start seriously thinking of other sources for electricity.

The most readily available, and most common, alternative to the grid is a twelve volt system. The recreational market for boats and campers offer us a reasonable solution to the blackout problem. It turns out there are a lot of twelve volt gizmo's to provide the creature comforts. Everything from coffee makers to televisions.

It's true that some d.i.y. maintenance is involved. You'll have to check and take care of a battery bank.

But look at the benefits! You could lower or even eliminate your electric bill. When the grid goes down, you'll still have power for the lights and more. In a very real way, you'll become more secure and free from worry.

What happens when the grid goes down...forever?

You'll have twelve volt power. Not just for today, but for all your tomorrows.

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In the first issue of The Conserver Reporter, I explain P.O.D. POWER – a twelve volt system for home use.
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Until then, here are some good starting places....


The 12-Volt Bible for Boats

RV Electrical Systems: A Basic Guide to Troubleshooting, Repairing and Improvement

And last, some necessary 12 volt appliances:

http://www.skingco.com/c-4-cooking-and-kitchen.aspx