By Tim GaynorBISBEE, Ariz (Reuters) - With energy prices going through the roof, an alternative lifestyle powered by solar panels and wind turbines has suddenly become more appealing to some. For architect Todd Bogatay, it has been reality for years.
When he bought this breezy patch of scrub-covered mountaintop with views to Mexico more than two decades ago, he was one of only a few Americans with an interest in wind- and solar-powered homes. — Now, Bogatay is surrounded by 15 neighbors who, like him, live off the electricity grid, with power from solar panels and wind turbines that he either built or helped to install.
"Electric and gas are going to skyrocket very soon. There are going to be more reasons for doing it, economic reasons," he said.
Bogatay and his neighbors at the 120-acre development are among a very small but fast-growing group of Americans opting to meet their own energy needs as power prices surge and home repossessions grow.
"It has its roots in 1970s hippy culture and survivalism, but it has now superseded that completely," said Nick Rosen, a trend analyst and author of the book "How to Live Off-Grid."
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"I like being my own power company," said Chris Allen, a neighbor of Bogatay's who has lived off-grid for several years.
"I wouldn't take their electricity if they brought it to my back door. Living like this is financially and mentally very healthy."
more/source: http://uk.reuters.com/article/newsOne/
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