Going off the grid

I've heard from some blogs and other articles that it is possible for most people, even suburban dwellers, to go off the grid and live independent of the Utility companies.

I've already planned on buying a house with no mortgage in the future (probably take me 10 years, but whatever), but I'm also intrigued by this as well. Having little to no utility costs because I'm able to generate my own power and water is something I'd very much like to be able to do as well. It would beat having to deal with the electric companies and the water companies. Sure, it would require a little more work on my part, but I think the benefit outweighs the cost.

Considering that there could be a civilization crushing event in the next few decades, this is certainly an option to take seriously from my point of view.

Anyone here have any insight into this?

We've got an 8kw solar array in our backyard. We do not, as of right now, have the batteries required in order to off the grid. If we remain in our house when the kids have left we might just do that, as we could easily supply enough power for just my wife and I.

But with 3 kids still at home, even a huge solar array won't supply all the power we use. We could get a diesel generator, and that would be a wise move on our part, but I have not done so as of right now.

I could fairly easily rig up a bunch of batteries and keep them charged off the solar array....did that on my boat. I just don't know how long we'll be in the house....could be forever, could be for 5 years.

I suppose I could build up to it. Of course, solar panels won't work all that well where I am right now, but they could prove useful. The batteries are the major concern. Until someone develops a better method of energy storage, I guess we're stuck with those.

Can't wait until someone develops a portable nuclear-powered generator.