The dome is a completely green house, and fully powered off-grid. We currently generate power three ways -- via wind turbine, a solar voltaic grid and with a permanent propane generator. Generated DC power is dumped into an array of large, marine gel cell batteries for storage, and converted to AC for use in the house via two inverters. The batteries, inverters and control systems are housed in a ventilated power room off the shop downstairs.

The dome has two overlapping wire systems, as well -- one a limited 12 volt DC system for low wattage lighting and the like, and a normal 110/120 AC system for normal lighting and appliances.

The generator has three outputs -- 12 V DC, 110 V AC and 220 V AC. The generator's primary use is to power the well pump and major appliances, such as the dishwasher or laundry. To that end, it's rarely invoked; it's not uncommon to run it as little as once a day for 30 minutes or so. The generator if fueled via a buried, 600 or so gallon tank away from the house.

Although there is a fully functional furnace, heat is generally powered the old-fashioned way with an axe and a little elbow grease -- and there isn't a better way known to man to work up an appetite for breakfast. The fireplace is generally more than sufficient for heating needs.

We've taken to supplying what little power is required for the cabin via a small portable generator when we need it, but there is no reason a more long-term solution as we've used at the dome can't be installed; there is certainly more than sufficient wind.

Finally, two other things of note: Hydroelectric and primary grid power.

Although we have not yet explored the option, it is our belief that there is sufficient fall and volume in the creeks to generate a steady trickle charge to help top the batteries during low-wind periods.

For those who don't wish to maintain off-grid status, there is normalized grid power within reach; a line exists both at the bottom of the road and on the adjacent owner's property at the peak. Access to either source would need to be negotiated -- but it is easily [if a bit expensively] done.

Voice communications can and historically have been handled one of two ways; either through attaching to a beefed up antenna system mounted on the roof or via satellite phone. Internet and television connectivity is generally handled best through satellite -- although we have not yet explored the CDMA approach.