Eh, most rural folks I know have wood heaters or fireplace inserts, even in the south. If the power is out, they can still manage to keep a room toasty warm and the pipes from freezing. Same with having a gas stove. It's really nice to be able to have a hot meal when the power is out from a hurricane or whatever.

I'm all for electrifying things, but I wouldn't bet my life on them.