PowerSwitch

Not very green this one. But falls under preparations...

I was thinking that with the fall in the stock market and uncertainty in the banking system, plus the high likelyhood of inflation over the next few years. That buying a couple of tons of coal and piling up behind my shed could be a reasonable investment. and if the SHTF then it will be good store of energy to heat my house with or something to trade with others.

Any views where one could get cheap, bagged coal in Herts? or should I get smokeless (more expensive and if the SHTF nobody will care if it was or not).

Cheers

Philip

Prices of coal and smokeless fuels dont vary that much, suggest the nearest coal merchant.

If you dont want to advertise your preperations, then paying cash and collecting the fuel would be better than having it delivered.

Coal has the advantage that it is easier to ignite than smokeless fuel, and it may be safer since the strong smelling, dark coloured smoke, is readily apparent if a defective flue allows it into the room. The less offensive (but just as dangerous) fumes from smokeless fuel might kill you before being noticed.

On the other hand smokeless fuel is cleaner to handle and store, and would assist in keeping a low profile in any emergency. Do you really want everyone to see smoke from your flue in times of shortage?