Customer Reviews

The Evolution of an Independent Home: The Story of a Solar Electric Pioneer

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(0)

 

 

As a Biologist, I have been looking for a book that would give a clear and concise introduction to solar energy and photovoltaics. Paul Fowler's book does just that. It is written for the person who has an interest in solar power, but who does not have the technical background to immediately delve into more detailed texts. It's story format is engaging, yet also very informative. I highly recommend this book.

In my quest to utilize this techology, I was delighted to encounter a volume that felt like it emerged from personal experience and not simply a rote tech survey. While I am not a particularly technical person, I found the information and presentation clear and direct. There is an undercurrent of personal charm I found engaging and added to my a sence of confidence in being able to do this. My wife and I are delighted with the results of what we learned and applied based on Mr Fowlers' book. Our second home in the woods was enhanced for it.

Found this book very interesting and easy to read. The book shows the 'human' side of this technology and the enduring spirit of a man who wanted to live independant of the utilities. A man who dared to live the simplier life and enjoyed the hard work to get there.

If only there were 240+ million more like him.

A very readable story of Jeff Fowler's 20+ year development of his independent homestead in the Berkshire Hills of Mass. This is a homegrown story of a hometown boy grown into solar pioneer and returning to a simpler way of life. His embrace of hometown friemdship and simple life-style has been an inspiring wake up call to me. In the past 4 years, I have lived in three regions of the US (Northeast, Florida and Southwest) and have found the technical aspects of the book readily adaptable to each of these regions - a book for all seasons. I encourage you to read and learn and enjoy.

This is much more than a "how to" book. Nonetheless, it contains ample basic and detailed information on energy efficiency and construction of a solar-powered house. It is a must read for those who are thinking about living "off the grid". It is also a fascinating personal history. Fowler has used his innate abilities and creativity to forge an independent lifestyle. The evolution of his wonderful home goes hand in hand with the growth of his family. It's an inspiring story for anyone seeking to redirect his or her life away from some of the more toxic aspects of our culture. And though he's passed away, Fowler's little dog Rollo will always live in my heart.

An excellent book for anyone interested in using solar power. It's especially useful for anyone planning to build a new house. But anyone wanting the basics of solar (passive) heating and solar electricity will benefit.

Paul gives an honest step-by-step account of his own building experiences, including the mistakes and what it took to correct them. I found the entire story very worthwhile and useful.

If you want a solid overview of how to prep any house for alternative electrical power, you should read this book. If you're looking for practical info in the best use of passive solar heating, you can't beat this book.

Jim, Montana
[...]

This fun book taught me how to think in terms of independent living. One of the best on my shelf.