Energy DecisionsEnergy decisions revolve around the two issues of sources and uses. Energy sources will be types of "fuels" like wood, diesel oil, propane, falling water, and sunlight. Uses of energy will include heating, cooking, lighting, and appiance power. Some energy sources are better suited to particular uses than others. For example, while kerosene lights are an option, electric lights are far superior. Conversely, electric cooking (except by microwave) is prohibitively expensive compared to cooking with propane. The table below is a "decision matrix" relating common sources and major uses. Each cell in the table links to a discussion of issues and links to further information. Another way to use this table is to print a copy, and for each energy use checkmark the particular energy source you will use in your own homestead.Note that I have assumed that lighting will be electric, so the arguably seperate uses of "lighting" and "appliance" have been merged and called simply "electric."
You will also want to study our detailed discussion of Electrical Power System Design. |
