"Off the Grid" (Energy sufficiency in Southern Vermont)

"Off the Grid" (Energy sufficiency in Southern Vermont), originally uploaded by roddh.

This "Russian Stove" fireplace is the centerpiece of this energy efficient ('off the grid') Southern Vermont home.

Designed by my uncle, this stove can heat most of the house, burning only a couple 3 to 4 inch split logs twice a day.

Key features of the design are an airtight combustion chamber (which draws air directly from the outside), and the huge mass of stone, which stores and slowly releases the heat from the morning and evening 'burn'.

The photo also demonstrates an alternative use of the stove as an indoor climbing wall :-)

Note: For more information about energy efficient living you can write Paul at myerspe@starband.net.