How many people who promote solar and wind as “clean,” “green,” and “renewable” have extensive experience with them? They have a lot going for them, but have a lot of problems. I’m in my fifth year relying only on solar for my electrical power at home. I haven’t plugged an appliance to an outlet in that time, though I did charge my computer and phone from outlets at NYU for[…] Keep reading →

Today is the shortest day of the year, with the sun at its lowest angle at noon. Using only photovoltaic solar power, today I get the least potential for energy. It’s less cloudy than usual, so I’ll get some power, but a tall building a block south of mine blocks the sun for most of the morning. Actually, low buildings do too. Here’s a schematic illustration: Here’s a more detailed[…] Keep reading →

The winter solstice is in one month. During the summer if I need to charge, I can go to the roof any time from around 8am to 8pm, weather permitting. This time of year, the sun only rises high enough to charge from about 9am to maybe 3pm. It’s cold. It’s windier so I can’t leave the panels alone because if the wind catches them, they blow like a sail.[…] Keep reading →

I’ve been increasingly realizing and pointing out that I am not an environmentalist. I surprised myself to discover it. I had long felt misunderstood when people asked, “If you like nature so much, why don’t you go to the woods live in nature?” It had long been obvious to me that we needed to change culture, not escape it, and New York is an influential cultural center. Then I checked[…] Keep reading →

Climate Week NYC was a month or so ago, but its sliminess lingers. I’m writing this post not to complain, but to call attention for the need for leadership, integrity, and credibility. I saw none there, but huge demand for it. I haven’t engaged yet with the event planners so attended passively, therefore include myself in showing no leadership there. It’s further motivation to finish my next book, which will[…] Keep reading →

It’s been close to a year since I first appeared on the Heritage Foundation’s podcast The Power Hour, hosted by Jack Spencer, who has been a guest on my podcast three times. First, I enjoy Jack’s hosting both as a guest and a listener. I really was laughing as hard as I said when I came on. You’ll hear me share more about how America’s founders, Lincoln, Adam Smith, and[…] Keep reading →

Come to my third annual cooking workshop at the wonderful Drew Gardens in the Bronx THIS SATURDAY. Click for all the logistics: Sustainable Living with Joshua Spodek Drew Gardens is one of New York City’s great gems. I love it there. You will too, along with my famous no-packaging vegan solar-powered stew. GREAT NEWS: Past workshops have led to Drew Gardens having their own solar panels, battery, and pressure cooker.[…] Keep reading →

Two things I haven’t kept track of but happen over and over: Sure, I could go for the quick clicks as the guy off the grid in Manhattan. I could probably get a million followers, but to change global culture, continuing the legacy of Abraham Lincoln, requires a solid, deep foundation. I’m getting closer to launch all the time, but not there yet. The reason my material has value and[…] Keep reading →

I tried to remember what I bought this year besides food. My doormen remark when a package arrives for me since I get a few per year. I ask if anyone else gets less. They say not even close. They tell me that some people receive more packages in some weeks than I do in a year, and many such weeks. As for food, I probably spend about $200/month, though[…] Keep reading →