The grid is vulnerable as a system. We have to stop always thinking about being connected to or relying on the utility grid. Think in terms of building an independant 12 volt DC system (low voltage) for the average dwelling to operate independant of the grid by charging batteries from solar or wind and utilizing the energy real time or later from the batteries. It seems everyone has visions of large expensive rooftop systems but starting small and building up over time will reduce the utility bill by substitution. We need to be energy independant on a small scale as well as looking at the big picture. Small systems can easily run lights, TV’s, radios, even a small refridgerator for essentials. You would still need the grid power for large loads like heat, large refridgerators, etc but you can have a seperate system to rely on if you suffer some calamity. With the advent of the “smart” grid, you dont want to be connected to the grid. Remember, the wires are antennas as well as conducting electricity. We owe our reliance on a large electrical system to Nickolai Tesla who developed high voltage alternating current power systems that won out over Thomas Edisons Direct Current system around the turn of the last century. The idea was to minmize power loss over long distances. Therefore we should all promote local or household Low voltage DC solar or wind systems to reduce the use of grid power and for much better reliability. Through the years I have built a very economical system comprised of several solar panels with a capacity of about 130 watts that automatically charge 6 large deep cycle and regular batteries from which I operate some radios , lights and in the event of loss of utility power, a small refridgerator. I also have a couple of cheap store bought DC to AC inverters if I need to operate an AC device, Solar panels have come down in price dramatically and production capabity is expanding, so start now. Think independant and start small instead of suffering mega system price hesitance. A world of 12 volt dc devices are available from hardware, marine, automotive and internet sources. You just have to start. Be the first on your block to confuse the lineman who show up during a power failure. I did.
I posted the above text on the new york times "Green Inc" energy blog back on september 23, 2009 as a comment to an article regarding solar power in africa. The internal discharge in a deep cycle battery is only about 50 milliamps which I consider insignificant.
I dont want to be connected to the grid which I consider "STUPID" and you dont either. Dont follow, think for yourselves.
Think about this..... brain waves operate up to about 20 cycles per second, imagine what 60 cycles is doing to you and the world.
Pat