Portable Generator For Sale

wood burning generator/ steam engine generator?

Since there is a lot of unrest in the world, our economy is in some trouble and I live in an area plagued by hurricanes... I want the ability to generate my own electricity to run my home. What I am searching for is not intended to be used under normal conditions, but as an emergency source of power that could do things like heat water for a shower, keep a house (or part of a house) warm or cool during the night.... stuff like that, not a full scale, every day, all day electricity source.... emergency. I looked at generators, but when there is trouble, there is almost always a lack of gasoline. If supplies are cut off, it could be months to resupply and one can only keep so much gas around, and it is a fire/explosion hazard. I want to create some sort of wood burning electricity generator. I was thinking a steam engine type setup. I could burn wood and debris to power it. Are these available? Could I build one on my own? Maybe an oil drum, some pipes and a modified generator? In addition, how much does it cost to rent an arc welder? How difficult are they to use? And, where can I find an old oil drum.... to use as a boiler?

Public Comments

1. Sounds like a fun project. Below is a link for "Reliable Steam Engine Company" which has lots of good information. They have engine castings and boiler plans. Well made boilers are safe but bad ones are very dangerous. A diesel powered generator would probably be more cost effective. Diesel fuel is not as dangerous as gasoline.
2. the first answer is a good one,but besides wood you my want to keep charcoal around also.Mesquite charcoal is long lasting and even burning.
3. Why not use Renewable Energy ? Some solar panels or a windmill ? Here are some links to help. Soon a $1 per watt solar panel. http://www.nanosolar.com/products.htm The back up generator to use is propane, it will out last all others.
4. The answers above are all good ones, and you might want to consider buiding a generator that runs on plant material as well, or fermented plant material (methane or alcohol).