Energy and Sustainability

When I bought my cabin, I had lots of planning to do. It was an unfinished shell and that meant that I had the chance to put decide nearly everything that went into it. One of my goals in moving to the cabin was to have a more self sustained life. That meant that one thing to consider was energy.

Almost all of my neighbors have propane pigs (or tanks) sitting in their yard. While the convienence of oripane would be nice, I elected to go in other directions. My choices might mean some sacrifices for me, but in order to become more sustained and self-sufficent those choices were the way for me to go.

The cabin came with a 100 amp circuit from the road so that was one thing I didn't chose. It does provide all my electrical needs which include refridgerator, lights, computer, well pump, and cooking. However, I installed solar yard lights and hope to continue to convert over to more solar in the future. All the lights are CF lights which helps to minimize consumption.
An interesting thing that I read was to consider using the smallest possible cooking source available that will complete a task. For me, that includes a small microwave, a small broiler oven, a 4 cup and single cup coffee-makers, smallest standard refridgerator, and smallest electric range. I strive to cook one-pot meals rather than fixing lots of smaller dishes.

I also rely on my wood burning stove for heating along with warming meals. It does mean that I have to chop and haul wood, and I have some concern for the emissions, but overall I feel that the trade off is worth it.

as I continue my cabin adventure, I'll be looking forward to calculating my energy footprint and then decide ways to further reduce it. Time will tell if this "experiment" will provide the pay-offs I anticipate.