In alt.home.repair
(Doug Miller) wrote:

This is probably against the law and doubtfully cheaper than buying from
the utility.

You're probably right about the cost comparison -- but why would it be against
the law?

I don't think it should, but it is. You are not allowed to compete with
the utilities. That may have changed since deregulation, but I don't think
so. Secondarily, for pollution, noise and safety.