In Oz we have been threatened with a 65% increase in electrical charges over the next few years. According to the TV news, some poor souls have had their bills doubled already, even when using the same amounts of electricity as before. We have also been told according to a 'current affairs' program that the days of cheap electricity are over!
We have had solar panels installed, to take advantage of the rebates now offered. I don't know how much longer that will be on offer.
I am also one of those who feels that I would rather outlay the money now, and be prepared than to have to panic when things go wrong.
Yesterday I received a parcel from DX with a solar 'thingy' (I love technical talk!) that will power my K3, SatNav, iPhone and some other goodies.
As you can tell, I am also one of those who believes that solar flares are bound to affect the power grids some time in the future.
On a lighter not - it can't hurt!
Cheers.