And now ...

 ... we have received an email from Alabama Power ... it appears we have some choices to make. Honestly, it never occurred to me that we'd have to make some decisions about staying on the grid and how. Don't get me wrong, we didn't expect to be 100% self-sufficient, but ... well, I guess I just didn't know quite what to expect.

Regardless of what your solar company salesman tells you - as they are likely to work with many different utility companies - be prepared to handle some stuff with your power company, if they'll even play. We are fortunate, I feel, to have Alabama Power.  They have been more than helpful and happy we are 'going solar.' Apparently not all power companies feel the same way.

• Alabama Power's Solar Information page / They also have information about hydroelectric power, and nuclear energy.

But wait, there's more! It's confusing ... I mean for the average 74-1/2 year woman to clearly understand, that is. Alabama Power emailed me way more information than I could possibly need and it's overwhelming. But, I know who to contact and I've already sent an email. Stay tuned!