Alternate Energy Sources

source: The Sassy Homemaker

Heat

Wood-burning stove or fireplace — You will need a very big supply of dry, chopped wood. You must have good ventilation, and make sure your chimney is clean and unobstructed and the flu is open.
Kerosene heater — Kerosene is fairly safe for indoor use, but you should make sure your room is well-ventilated. Never run the heater when you’re asleep or gone from the house.
Blankets — Keep a good supply of bedding and warm blankets and sleeping bags.
Hunker down — Close off most of your house and live in only a few rooms. It will be easier to heat and your fuel will last longer.

Light

Flashlights — For short-term use, these are excellent. Keep plenty of extra batteries on hand, and keep a flashlight by your bed and in your car.
Candles — Regular decorative taper candles will melt very quickly and give off little light. Opt for emergency candles, designed to last a long time. Some can also be used for heat.
Kerosene lantern — Safe to use indoors, this will give heat as well as light. Excellent option.
Light sticks — These are especially good for children, as there is no flame or fuel involved. They are also a good choice if you suspect a gas leak, as they don’t generate a spark.

Cooking

Camping stove/outdoor grill — These are generally powered by propane and should only be used outdoors.
Kerosene stove — This is safe for indoor use and will give off heat as it cooks. (You probably should still crack a window, though).
Dutch oven — If used with charcoal, this should only be used outside. Can also be used in an oven or fireplace.
Fireplace — Consider using roasting forks, aluminum foil packets, or fire-safe pot.
Sun oven — After the initial investment, as long as you have sun, you have fuel.

Alternate Power Sources

Generator — This is a good alternative, but it can be expensive, and it requires fuel, such as gas. If fuel is in short supply, the generator will be useless.
Solar cells — This can be expensive in the beginning, but it will eventually pay for itself in energy bill savings. It is clean, and the sun is free! Look into local, state, and federal grants, reimbursements, and incentive programs to ease the cost.
Human energy — Don’t forget, you can power things yourself, too. Use a manual can opener, a push mower, a bicycle. Walk to the store, hang your clothes out to dry, till your garden with a shovel. It’s hard work, but it can be done, and you might even lose a few pounds in the bargain!