By Steve Nicholson

 Scientists have confirmed that enough solar energy falls on the surface of the earth every 40 minutes to meet 100 percent of the entire world’s energy needs for a full year.

—Al Gore

We live off-the-grid, in the hills of Caroline, NY. We have a small, 820 watt photovoltaic array, and a tiny, 600 watt wind turbine. Our high performance windows, state-of-the-art insulation, and energy-efficient lights and appliances allow our family of four to lead...