William lives completely off the grid. He collects rainwater via his roof gutters and filters it for his water. He has a septic system. Solar panels placed in the windows of his home juice up a rechargeable battery for limited electrical needs and he uses propane, kerosene and wood for heating in the winter. He stores his perishable food in the cool basement, never watches television but does listen to a battery-powered radio. Absolutely no wires or pipes connect his home to the world at large.

From an article in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette…

A self-proclaimed arch enemy of utility companies, he said, he stands determined to show the world how to stretch a dollar, reduce reliance on foreign oil and live the simple life. He also vows to fight for the right to refuse to use any public utilities.

And if the power company wasn’t enough of a hassle, officials from the local public sewer system are also insisting that he connect his home to the sewers. The threat of a lien on his property if he refuses is being held over his head.

You’d think that once you made it to the age of 76, you’d have earned the right to be left alone if you weren’t bothering anyone else. I hope William wins his chance soon.

Here’s that article from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

[via The Good Human]

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