Mr. Rawles,
I wanted to send a quick note that one option for a retreat’s power/heating needs could be met with a natural gas well on the property. Here is a link to a map which shows coal bed methane areas in the United States. If someone was so inclined, a well could produce natural gas for a retreat for as many as 100 years and allow for a completely independent fuel source which can be added to other sources such as wood stoves and the like.
Best Regards, – Jon H.