For Bretch, the self-sustaining lifestyle is about being financially secure and keeping his costs down.

"My biggest expense from my Social Security check will be my DirecTV," Bretch said.

Photos: Industrial Country Market

Published On: Sep 17 2012 04:09:09 PM CDT
An off-the-grid Solar compound

Houstonian Dan Bretch has created a completely self-sustaining facility called the Industrial Country Market a little over an hour outside of Houston. The 6,000-square-feet store, a home and art store all run on solar power and use a combination of well and rain water.

Industrial Country Market
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The Industrial Country Market is located off of Hwy 71 just past Columbus, TX.