We installed a diesel generator back in 1999, figuring that, if Y2K did knock out the power, it might be a while before they got it back on. Thankfully, that didn't happen, but we did have a big blackout during 2003 throughout much of the North East. I was very glad to have the generator then, or we would have been likely throwing out three refrigerators worth of food.

A buddy of mine just converted his house over to solar power. So far, his most expensive electric bill has been $3, but most of the time they send him money. He's also planning on buying a plug-in automobile, that way he can just charge it off the house. I thought that was a great idea...he would be in better shape than most if gas prices go crazy or if there is a major power failure.