Renewable Energy For Newbies

How To Reduce Your Electricity Bill For Almost No Money!

2009-01-09T10:42:00.002-04:00

Many people have made a similar New Year's
resolution. That was to find a way to cut costs
on everything!

With the economy tanking and hearing of massive
job losses, we're scared witless. So the one thing
we CAN do is try to save in every area we can
in our own lives.

Electricity bills are a big money grabber, right? So
what better place to start? If you're not into solar
panels, wind generators or even going completely
off the grid, take heart.

You can start with the basics. Do what ever it
takes to cut your electric bill. And who better to
listen to but a guy who's been there and done that?

He worked in the movie industry for years. He
knows his stuff. Check him out...

How To Reduce Your Electricity Bill Without Spending A Lot Of Money!

How To Build Your Own Solar Water Heater

2008-12-07T20:22:00.002-04:00

Build Your Own Solar Water Heater!

I love hot water. And long showers. Deep
bubble baths. Well, I used to.

Now, I've been timing myself in the mornings.
How quickly can I get my hair washed and
rinsed and the body lathered and rinsed? It's
a record I had never thought I'd be going for.

Why? Because of having an electric hot water
heater. Dang! Those things are monsters for
using electricity.

So long, hot showers are a thing of the past.
That is until I build a solar water heater!
From instructions like the ones below...

Build Your Own Solar Water Heater!

Sustainable Living Becoming More Popular By The Day

2008-12-01T17:32:00.002-04:00

Working in a library, I come into daily contact
with a wide variety of personalities. One thing
I've learned is to never ASSUME anything.

I'm still surprised by the numbers of people
who are requesting books about alternative
energy, renewable energy and sustainable
living. And talking about it! Heck, our town
is now into becoming a sustainable community!

I guess why I'm a little shocked is because up
until this past year, I have to confess, I didn't
pay as much attention to this subject as I should
have.

When we were hit with our 5th electricity rate
increase in 7 years, I just threw a plain old hissy
fit. Enough!

All of a sudden it's ME taking out those books.
Changing my lightbulbs to compact fluorescent.
Doing laundry in cold water. Checking for air leaks.
Watching how I use electricity. They are not
going to get a red cent more than they have to!

Two nights ago I was talking with someone who
has a brother who has gone totally off grid. Oh,
how I envied him!

If I were to build a home again, it would be using
solar energy. This doesn't stop me from dreaming
about solar panels, though. Or windmill generators.
Hmmm, what is possible is so exciting.

I'm looking forward to Obama taking office and
watching what he does with the "Green" plans.
Are YOU green? Do you wanna be?

Are You Fed Up With High Electricity Costs?

2008-11-07T16:34:00.002-04:00

It's official. Our Review & Utility Board have
given the go-ahead for a 9.4% INCREASE
in our energy rates!

That makes it 5 increases in 7 years. Don't
get me started on the cost-of-living raises
that people get. If they even get them.

Everyone is astounded by this decision. We
would like to know what the CEO and other
upper management receive for pay, bonuses
and perks.

We need power to run our lives. They have us
over the proverbial barrel. I know there will
be very cold energy consumers soon.

Of course, the power corporation has no
problem with shutting off someone's power
when they fall behind.

What are we to do? I'm hearing more and more
people talking about alternative energy sources.
Folks that wouldn't have dreamed of renewable
energy resources just a year ago!

But it's getting serious. People have had it up
to here! And, they are fighting back by hitting
the energy corporations where it hurts them
the most. With the almighty dollar!

Heaven help us all!

Californians Know More About Saving Energy Than The Rest Of Us!

2008-10-20T20:16:00.003-03:00

Who knew? I love California and Californians
but...this surprised me. (I don't know why)

Read an excerpt of this article from today.

By TERENCE CHEA –

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — California has saved about
$56 billion in electricity costs and created 1.5 million
jobs over 35 years by using energy more efficiently
than other states, according to a new study.

The report released Monday by an economist at the
University of California at Berkeley found that state
policies that boost energy efficiency aren't just good
for the environment, they're also good for the economy.

"Energy efficiency is very good for real incomes,
purchasing power and job creation," said the study's
author, UC Berkeley economics professor
David Roland-Holst. "Energy efficiency has really
helped us stimulate the economy."

The average Californian now uses about 40 percent
less electricity than the average American. "

Shame on the rest of us. We have to do better with
saving energy. If you read through this blog, you'll find
some energy saving tips. They'll be more to come.

I'll be offline for awhile. In the process of moving.
And, yes! I'll be practicing what I preach. The first
thing that will be going in my new place are the
compact fluorescent light bulbs!

How To Save Thousands Of Dollars On Your Energy Bills!

2008-10-18T20:28:00.003-03:00

How To Save Thousands Of Dollars On Energy Costs!

By now you're probably sick of presidential debates.
Of the mud-slinging, back-stabbing, so-called campaign
strategies. Stick to the issues, will ya?

The only thing you are interested in is, "What are you
going to do for ME??"

We can only hope that our next president tackles the
issue of renewable energy. They have to look into and
implement alternative energy sources.

Not only for the sake of the planet. But for our energy
needs. We can't depend on fossil fuels forever. We cannot
keep paying the escalating costs of these fuels. While we
hear of the beyond-wealthy lifestyles of the rich and greedy
oil sheiks!

Until our government makes renewable energy as common
as apple pie, there is something we can do right now. If
you want to cut the costs of your energy bills, you can
start making your own energy. Right in your own backyard.

Utilizing solar energy or wind power, you can make your
own home made power plant. And it won't cost you a
fortune to do it! How about around $200? Imagine how long
it will take to make that amount back?

Check out our website right now. What do you have to
lose?

How To Save Thousands Of Dollars On Energy Costs!

Solar Water Heaters: Hooray For Hawaii!

2008-10-13T22:21:00.002-03:00

Renewable Energy news to brighten your day...

Hawaii...Paradise is getting even better.

Starting in 2010, all new single-family homes in
the state of Hawaii will have to have solar water heaters,
or they will not be granted permits.

(There will be exceptions if your home is located under
a forest canopy)

Today, Hawaii already has 80,000 solar hot water
heaters in operation. Residents can already get a handy
35% state income tax credit, in addition to taking
advantage of the federal credit of 30% (up to $2,000)
-- but hurry, the federal incentive is set to expire by
the end of this year.

To sweeten the deal even further, several of Hawaii's
leading utilities are offering additional incentives
on a new system. Hawaii's progressive stance is
exciting and encouraging.

Solar water heaters, also known as
solar thermal systems, pay for themselves in four
to eight years. (not a DIY system)

In contrast to using the sun's free rays, the average
family's electric water heater uses 6,400 kilowatt-hours
of electricity per year, releasing eight tons of CO2.
There are different types of solar systems, including
passive ones and those with pumps.

Not surprisingly, as ENN reports, Hawaii must import
about 90% of its energy sources (mostly from fossil fuels),
which is part of the reason why the cost of living is
famously high.

Therefore, it makes a lot of sense for the gloriously
sunny island chain to take advantage of its clean natural
resources, and cut down on shipping and pollution.

Hawaii is known for its unique and spectacular beauty,
and helping preserve the ecosystem's fragile balance
is a top priority for the state's leadership.

Can we dream that all states and provinces will
someday do what Hawaii is doing?

Solar Energy: A Little History Lesson...

2008-10-11T18:57:00.004-03:00

A brief history of solar water heating...

We may think solar water heating is a
relatively new concept. Oh no, it just
ain't so.

Cave dwellers, Native Americans and the
ancient Greeks knew the benefits of the
center of the solar system. The sun!

The Roman Empire was the first to use
the advanced solar technology by using
glass to enhance the effectiveness of
solar heating.

In 1891, the world's first ever commercial
solar water heater was patented by a man
by the name of Clarence M. Kemp.

Then in 1909, William Bailey, a California
engineer, began selling a solar water heater.
He called it "Day & Night".

When Los Angeles discovered deposits of
natural gas, sales of his solar heaters went
kaput.

Savvy business people took these designs to
Florida and were very successful. 60,000
solar hot water systems were installed between
1935 and 1941 during the building boom.

Just imagine. Between 1937 and 1941, 80%
of the homes were solar equipped!

After World War II, electricity rates plummeted
and homeowners found it easier to go with
electric hot water heaters.

Nobody thought much more about renewable
energy until the 1973 Arab oil embargo. Then
President Jimmy Carter made energy efficiency
a priority. He installed a solar water heater on
the roof of the White House!

The federal government considered you to be
patriotic during the late 70s and early 80s if you
installed solar energy systems.

So what happened? We were on the right track.
Well. Imagine if you are selling fossil fuels. You're
going to be pissed, right? This renewable energy
movement is going to cost you big-time money!

Then America witnessed the most expensive
presidential campaign EVER. Part of it was
even financed by OIL INTERESTS.

And then...Ronald Reagan was elected the
President of the United States! And with it,
his love of all things FOSSIL!

He promptly removed the solar water heater
from the White House roof and systematically
gutted the US solar industry.

While North America divorced itself from
renewable energy, other countries embraced
alternative energy sources. Even Third World
countries are weaning themselves off fossil fuel!
Israel even requires all new buildings to have
solar water heaters installed!

Can you believe North America is the backward
continent? What does this tell us? The US is
supposedly the most powerful country on the
planet. For shame!

But, finally...renewable energy alternatives is
gaining momentum. We really aren't left with
much choice, are we? Let's hope our politicians will
help us catch up with the rest of the world.

In the meantime, there are many things we
can do ourselves to not only improve our
planet but also save money in the process.

Prevent Global Warming & Save Money!

2008-10-09T22:16:00.002-03:00

Okay, as promised, we're going to talk
about some of the things we can all do
to make our planet a better place.

Not only does it make a big difference
but it will save you money. And with the
economy in shambles, anything you can
do to add to your financial safety is a bonus.

First up is my favorite pet love...

~~~Compact Fluorescent Bulbs~~~

I cannot say enough good things about this
important way to light up your life!

Now most of us, when we hear "fluorescent",
think of those annoying, buzzing, harsh lights
you see in hospitals, school, etc...Not so!

Compact fluorescent bulbs give off a warm light
just like regular bulbs. And...a 25 watt compact
fluorescent gives the same light as a 100 watt
incandescent!

Although halogen lamps are a bit more efficient
than incandescent bulbs, they are a major fire
hazard. They get too damn hot! For efficiency
and safety, it has to be the CFL.

Something to think about...To prevent 13 billion
pounds of carbon dioxide being released into the
atmosphere, all it would take is for every house
in the US to install a compact fluorescent light bulb
when replacing a burnt-out light bulb!

That's the same as taking a million cars off the
road for a whole year! Jeeze!

Don't you feel like running out to the nearest
hardware store and stocking up? Yes, of course
these bulbs will cost more but when you think
of the energy savings and the good you're doing
for the environment, it's a no-brainer!

Oh, and one thing to check for when buying...
get the bulb which has an electronic, solid-state
ballast. These won't buzz or flicker.

If you want to use them on a dimmer, make
sure the bulb is marked "dimmable". Find
a knowledgeable sales associate if you have
questions.

Don't buy at certain big-box stores, either.
Only hardware or lighting stores. You'll get
better quality. There's a reason why some
places can sell a product more cheaply.
It's called lower-quality. Remember, you
get what you pay for!

Now go light up your world and help save
the environment!

Why We Need To Think About Renewable Energy Resources

2008-10-08T19:36:00.004-03:00

You've heard the news. You're listening
to the politicians. Umm...no matter who
or what party you choose to support, one
thing is very, very clear.

They are all talking about the crucial need
to be looking at renewable energy resources.
Not too long ago, this subject was poo-pooed
by many so-called smart-thinking people.

We laughed. Called them "tree huggers".
Fear mongers. Well, the joke's on us.
Some joke!

Our planet is in deep trouble. Burning
fossil fuels will do us in. It's contributing
to a warmer planet. That may sound
good to someone living in a cold climate
but we must realize the price.

This rise in earth's temperature will cause
increasingly severe weather. We are already
seeing the effects and it will continue to
get much worse.

Thunderstorms, hurricanes, heatwaves,
wildfires, floods, draughts and sudden
temperature swings. Our water and food
supply is threatened. People die from these
things.

Hopefully our governments will forge ahead
with solid plans to combat this issue. In the
meantime, we can do our part. Yes, even
one person can make a difference.

And whatever you do to help, also helps
you. By saving money. In this unstable
economy, cutting expenses any way you
can means a lot.

In continuing posts, we'll look at the
things we can do to make a difference.
If you're considering solar power or wind
power to energize your home and life,
these little things, especially, are the
beginning of helping our planet.

Think about it...I'll be back tomorrow
with some tips.

Renewable Energy: A Debate Winner!

2008-10-07T21:42:00.004-03:00

With two heated election campaigns going on
right now in the US and Canada, the one good
thing to come out of the debating (or lack thereof)
is the topic of alternative energy sources!

Finally! Sustainable living has gone mainstream.
We may be running out of oil but we are not out
of options.

As oil prices rise, there will be a mad scramble to
buy the tools needed to make use of alternative
energy, especially solar energy and wind power.

If you've been thinking of renewable energy
resources to power your home and lives, there
certainly is no time like right now!

Do the research. Get prepared. We need to
become aware of the energy problem. We must
find easy-to-use solutions right now!

Solar Panels For Your Pool

2008-10-06T15:46:00.002-03:00

Pool Solar Panels

You can save considerable money heating your
pool if you learn how to install pool solar panels.
And of course, don't forget the reduction of toxic
emissions.

The pool itself functions as the main thermal
storage recipient. So solar applications have proven
highly successful.

Pool solar panels require the use of unglazed plastic
collectors. Under the action of the pump that controls
the water filtration circuit, the water in the pool will
actually be sent in the solar collectors.

We can consider pool solar panels and light energy
as another type of fuel and it actually behaves as such;
the result is that it will bring the water temperature
at a level that is comfortable for swimming.

Through the diversion of the water through the
numerous tiny passages in the solar energy collector,
water is automatically heated.

The warm water is sent back into the pool by
the filtration pump until all the volume has reached
a certain temperature level.

When the heating process is over, water is not longer
passed through the solar collectors but sent directly
back into he pool.

Most people think that the pool solar panels have to face
south, manufacturers point out that this is not always the
case. The only condition for the proper functioning of the
system is that the pool solar panels be exposed to the
sun light as much as possible throughout the day.

The inclination angle in a certain direction is very often
influenced by the type of mounting used for the
installation of the system.

A heated pool is a great idea no matter what the climate
is like where you live. For home owners who like to take
a swim early in the morning, after a chilly night for example,
the water in the pool will be too cold to be comfortable.

With pool solar panels, you can enjoy every swim and
save a bundle of money!

How To Install Pool Solar Panels!

Don't Waste Electricity: Learn How To Be A Ghostbuster!

2008-10-05T00:18:00.002-03:00

Yup, your house is haunted. No, not by
spirits. But by what is commonly known
as "phantom loads". Say what?

This is the electricity used by devices
when we are NOT actually using them!
Appliances and electronic goodies are
slowly sucking money out of us and we
don't even know it.

Things Haunted By A Phantom Load

We like everything to be instant nowadays.
So for example, when we turn on the television,
heavens forbid we would have to wait. So to
keep the circuits all juiced up and ready for us,
it needs electricity. (money sucker)

Microwave ovens (I never even thought of this)

Cell phone recharger and no, yours may be
drawing power even if your phone isn't hooked
into it.

Cordless phone power transformers

Coffee makers with LED clocks

Stereos, audio and satellite receivers, radios,
power strips....

All of this may not sound like much but they are
money suckers that add up over time. So look
around your house. Then bust the ghosts.

Plug electrical devices into power strips that
can be turned off when not in use. Same for
your cell phone charger.

One thing I never gave a thought about was
my electric alarm clock. Now I have a battery-
operated alarm clock. Which is actually better.
Anyone ever oversleep because the power
was interrupted during the night?

It actually becomes fun hunting down these
little critters. So have a look and see what
phantom loads you have that are money suckers.

As much as I hate to admit to something my
parents always said..."Waste Not, Want Not!"

Alternative Energy: Is Wind Power Right For You?

2008-10-03T01:10:00.003-03:00

How To Use Wind Power To Save Money!

With the economy tanking and the future uncertain,
people are looking into alternative energy like never
before.

One alternative energy source is the wind. But, is
it right for you?

Chances are, if you live in a city or town, it probably
won't be an option. Not that the wind doesn't blow
in those places.

It's because there are too many obstructions. And
that causes wind turbulence. Also, there may not
be enough room to install wind generators.

Wind power is most successfully used as a source
of electrical energy on lots of at least one acre.

The next thing you have to think about...
is there enough wind energy in your location to
work?

According to the American Wind Energy
Association, your average annual wind speed
should be about seven to nine miles an hour.
At ground speed.

Of course, as wind machines are mounted on
towers 80 to 120 feet tall, the wind speeds are
higher. With less wind turbulence.

To check the suitability of a wind system in your
area, you can look at a wind map of your state.

http://www.nrel.gov/wind

In any country, contact your Wind Energy
Association. You can also contact your closest
airport to obtain wind speed data.

If you determine that wind power could
be a viable option of alternative energy,
you may want to get more details on how
to build your own wind generator at...

How To Use Wind Power To Save Money!

Frantic Consumers Turning To Alternative Energy Sources

2008-10-01T22:41:00.003-03:00

I don't need to harp on the state of affairs
in the world today. You've read the newspapers
and are mesmerized by the TV screen as
you watch what the next move will mean for
our economic future.

And all the world over, people are buckling down.
We know it's time to get serious. Sustainable
living has taken on a new meaning.

The very ones who poo-pooed the notion of
renewable energy are now in fact scrambling
to find out more. (yes, I was one of those people)

And we are looking toward the sun. Its gift is
there. Ready for the taking. An amazing source
of free heat.

You can live in a cold, cloudy climate and
still take advantage of solar energy. And
rack up huge savings in fuel bills. Even if
you start small.

To learn more about what the amazing sun
can do for you, check out this solar energy
enthusiast....

Learn What The Sun Can Do For You!

Solar Power For Boats: Taking It To The Water

2008-09-30T21:31:00.002-03:00

Ahhh...is there anything better than being on
the water? Ask any boater. They'll tell you there
is no finer recreational vehicle.

Hopefully, whenever you're boating, the
sun is shining in all it's glory. You know where
I'm going with this, don't you?

Why not take advantage of that glorious sun
in another way? Get solar-powered! Boaters
use portable solar power systems. To recharge
batteries and furnish electricity. And imagine
how good a solar shower feels!

At this time of year, boaters are living in the
warmer climates (lucky dogs) but for the
boating enthusiasts in colder climes, it can't
hurt to be prepared for the next boating
season.

Solar Power For Boaters!

Solar Energy Words You Wanted To Know The Meaning Of But Didn't Want To Ask

2008-09-29T13:34:00.003-03:00

If you're looking into solar energy to power
your home, you could become very frustrated.
You'll see technical words and go..."Say what??"

See if this helps...

Glossary Of Solar Terms

active solar heater......A solar water or space-heating
system that moves heated air or water using pumps
or fans.

array.....A group of solar electric modules connected
together in a power system.

array current....The electrical current output of a
PV array when exposed to sunlight.

cell.....The basic unit of a PV module or battery.

direct insolation....Incident sunlight received indirectly
because of scattering due to clouds, fog or other
obstructions.

electrical grid...A network for electricity distribution
across a large area

fixed tilt array....A solar PV array set at a fixed angle
to the horizontal.

grid-tied PV system....A PV system in which the PV
array acts as a central generating plant, supplying
power to the grid.

Still with me? I know. It makes me crazy too. We'll
stop here for now.

One term you'll see over and over again is PV.
PV is an abbreviation for photovoltaic.

Photovoltaic....refers to converting light into electricity.
Photo means "light" and voltaic means "electric". Called
PV for short. Can be referred to as "solar electric".

Don't let all these terms put you off. Not when all the
answers to a solar-powered home can be found in...

The Beginner's Guide To Solar Panels!

Renewable Energy On The Rise

2008-09-28T03:30:00.003-03:00

There isn't a day that goes by that you don't
hear about renewable energy. It's all over the
media. Politicians know that it's time to go all
out to provide the means to decrease our
dependence on foreign oil.

Thanks to advances in technology, renewable
energy sources could soon become large
contributors to global energy.

Solar cells, wind turbines and bio fuels are
poised to become major energy sources. New
policies could dramatically accelerate that
evolution.

~~~Daniel M. Kammen, Scientific American

It truly is a new era. No longer thought to be a
passing trend. This is serious. It's our future
and our children's future.

Right now, you aren't concerned with what the
government will have in place in the future.
With the exorbitant rise in fuel and electricity
costs, homeowners just like you are making
decisions about renewable energy.

And finding ways to harness alternative energy
to help you right now. Whether it's for building
a full-scale solar home or off-setting your high
electrical bill on a much smaller scale. The power
of the sun and wind are being put to use.

Now is the time to become self-sufficient. With
the proper knowledge, you can learn exactly how
to bring solar and wind power to your home.

A cleaner, safer environment . And lower electricity
bills. Can it get even better?

How To Go Solar

Alternative Energy Resource

RV Solar Panels: A Solar Powered Trip

2008-09-26T22:07:00.002-03:00

Did you ever think about taking solar power
on the road? It's the perfect way to start on
a smaller scale with solar technology.

If your wanderlust takes you off the beaten
track, there will be no power receptacles. Solar
power systems gives you the freedom to enjoy
nature by having a dependable source of electricity.

RVs already run on DC. You have the roof space
for the PV modules. Your generator you are now
using is more expensive. And let's not even talk
about the noise!

If you're going to be travelling through California
or Arizona, think about the amount of solar you
can store each and every day! One to three
PV modules should provide you with enough power.

Adding solar panels to your RV is something to
think about, isn't it? Now you get to enjoy your
time under the sun even more!

Solar Powered Road Trip

Alternative Energy: It's Hot!

2008-09-25T14:26:00.003-03:00

Some things to think about...

Did you know that you can totally slash your electricity bill
and even have the power companies pay you?!

Turns out "going green" is not as complicated as I used
to think. You just need to learn a few basics.

Did you know:

- Renewable energy is becoming more popular...

- There are federal programs that exist to help you
get started

- Most "starter kits" for solar energy are set up with
"do-it-yourself" people in mind. So you save money!

- You can start small and slowly work your way
towards going totally "green".

Even starting small amounts to big savings. Hey,
with the cost of electricity, it all helps, right?

To help you get on the right track, you may want
to check out this Solar Power expert...

Look what you'll find in his guide...

- Solar Panels 101: what they are... how they work...
the different types and how to determine what kind
is right for you

- The top 3 things you absolutely must have before
you should even think about installing solar panels
in your home

- 5 reasons why you should switch to solar power
right away

- Planning on "doing-it-yourself"? Then you absolutely
need these 5 tips on installing solar panels yourself that
will help you save time and energy

- Everything you need to know about the various federal
and state rebates, grants, and financial incentives you could
qualify for if you decide to use solar panels

- Top 10 ways to use solar energy to save a truckload
of money each and every month around your home

- How to sell power back to the power company,
make money and beat them at their own game

- Plus much, MUCH MORE!

This just scratches the surface of what's in the book.
You'll have everything you'll need to get started using
solar panels.

Within a short time you can have your home running
off solar energy and never have to pay a cent in electricity
again. Not only that, the power companies will be
paying you!

What adds even more to the excitement is knowing
that you're helping save our planet for our children
and their children's children.

Hurry and check this out now... he's offering some great
bonuses for a limited time only.

CLICK HERE

Solar Power: Here Comes The Sun

2008-09-22T15:54:00.002-03:00

Think about it. THE SUN.

Our ultimate energy source. It radiates
energy. Good thing it's 93 million miles
away or we'd be toast!

We know solar energy works. Just open
your car on a hot day. Native Americans
were the first to use residential solar
heating.

They built their homes into the rock cliffs
that faced south. This gave them ample
solar thermal energy.

Then the government stepped in. As they are
known to do. Now, their hearts were in the
right place. They put millions of dollars
into building houses for the Navajo and Hopi.

Electric heating and air-conditioning! Woot!
What's not to like? You guessed it. The
whopper electric bills, that's what.

So many Native Americans simply moved back
to their grandparent's homes. Hey, it was more
efficient and way less cost.

This was not lost on the government. They
turned around and built the largest residential
solar power system. In the world! The residents
moved back...

Yes, solar power works. The sun is always there.
Even when clouds try to block it out. The sun
can give us both heat and electricity.

Finally, government is listening. They use it
and encourage homeowners and renters to use it.
They even offer tax incentives and rebates.

The time has come. Sun provides us with FREE
energy. New technologies give us the means
to bring solar power into our lives.

Even for the people who scoff at being "green"
or don't worry about the environment, we all
worry about the rising cost of our electric bills!

So use the sun. Just don't stare at it!

If you're a newbie and don't know where to begin,
I highly suggest learning from this guy...

How To Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient

2008-09-19T19:10:00.004-03:00

Before you invest in alternative energy sources, you
need to make sure your home is energy-efficient. First
things first! This cannot be stressed enough. (jumping
up and down)

"Every dollar you spend on making your home more
efficient decreases the cost of your power system by
approximately $3 to $5!"

~~~Home Power Magazine

Do A Home Energy Audit

This simply means you will do a study of how
energy is used and lost in your home. You can do
the audit yourself. Hire a contractor. Or ask your
energy provider.

How do you do it yourself? Take a good look around
your home. Drafts and air leaks are the bad guys.
You will need insulation, caulking and
weatherstripping to give 'em a beating.

The obvious places are windows and doors. If you feel
cold air blowing a gale around either one of these,
grab a caulking gun. You may want to consider replacing
windows and doors if do-it-yourself measures won't cut it.

And don't forget to check around fireplace dampers,
window air conditioners, gaps around pipes and electrical
outlets, vents and attic hatches. Anywhere and everywhere
there is an opening, picture money squeezing out
through!

Most energy is lost through ceilings and walls. You'll
want to find out what kind of insulation is in your home
and if it's up to snuff for your climate.

If you have your building plans, check the R value of
your home when it was built. This is the laboratory standard
which describes the insulation's resistance to heat transfer.
You may want to consult an insulation contractor.

How's your heating and/or cooling system? If it's at
least 15 years old, you should consider replacing your
system with the newer, more energy-efficient models
of today. I know it costs money now but you'll be
amazed at the improvements.

Lighting accounts for at least 10% of your energy bill.
Remember when your parents hounded you to
turn off the lights when you left the room? Okaaay...
They were right! Now you get to say it.

Along with conserving light, buy the new compact
fluorescent bulbs. They are said to last 10 times
longer and use a quarter of the electricity.

If you're able to afford a professional contractor to
do your energy audit, seriously consider it. Why?
They have the knowledge and tools to give you the
most bang for your buck. They will spot things
you've missed.

And don't forget. Your public utility company may
do one for little or no cost.

Either way, before you even consider solar power
or wind power, get your home in the best shape
it can possibly be.

There's something sexy about an energy-efficient
home!

If you are inclined toward Solar Power, your best
bet is to check out...

Beginner's Guide To Solar Panels

For a super-duper course in Solar and Wind Power,
click on the banner at the top of the page.

Got Wind? Harness This! Looking Into Wind Power

2008-09-15T15:15:00.003-03:00

How To Make Your Own Power

Do you get sick to your stomach when your
electrical bill arrives in the mail?

Are you tired of the increased rates? The
power company I buy my electricity from had
5 rate increases in 7 years! And the next one
coming in January will be a 9.5 increase!

My cost-of-living raise wasn't half that!!!

It's time for a change. Disgusted electricity
consumers are shopping around for better
options.

One of the answers is wind power. Converting
wind power into electricity to power their homes.

Wind power generation increased fivefold between
2000 and 2007. That tells us something!

In Denmark, wind produces 19% of electricity
production. They're on to something good!

Why wind power?

* It's certainly plentiful
* It's renewable
* It's clean and green
* Considered by many experts to be more
environmentally-friendly than other energy
sources
* It's affordable!!!

When you're ready to research wind power,
take a look at these highly-recommended DIY
guides by expert alternative energy specialists.

The power belongs in your hands. Now you have
a choice...

How To Make Your Own Power

Windpower Rocks

Got Sun? Go Solar!

2008-09-07T18:12:00.004-03:00

Solar power is going mainstream! Everyone
is talking or thinking about it.

We know of soaring energy prices.

We hear the calls from across the political
spectrum. We must decrease our dependence
on foreign oil. Nobody will argue with that one!

Consumer interest in solar energy has been
driven into the stratosphere. And we all must
agree that is a very good thing.

We have to take charge. We have to fight back.
Enough of making the wealthy, wealthier.

No matter which way you lean politically, we
are all on the same page regarding alternative
energy.

The best thing is that we can help ourselves.

--Whether with a small solar component to provide
a modest contribution to your home...

--Building a new home which is totally solar powered...

--Or anything in between...

The power is in your hands. Literally!

For strickly going with Solar Power, check out

Beginner's Guide To Solar Panels

To learn about Solar power and Wind power,

Click Here!

Labor Day Makes You Think Of High Electrical Bills

2008-09-01T13:31:00.004-03:00

Cold weather coming!

Consider yourselves lucky if you live in
a warm climate. Fall has been in the air
where I live for a couple weeks already.

The shorts and sandals will soon be packed
away. Brrr....my nose and feet are cold and
clammy right now.

And I'm already wondering how much it will
cost me this year to keep warm? Basic living
expenses, right? That keep going up!

But, of course, it was reported in our
newspapers that the CEO of the electrical
corporation who has one hand in our pockets
and the other around our throats, is being
given an even bigger bonus!!! Say what?

We've had it. All of us. Even the ones who
were never concerned about being "green"
are looking into new ideas.

The major trend is alternative energy sources.
More and more consumers are taking back
their power. They are going to make their own!

We are studying solar power. Wind power.
Finding out that for a small cost, we can use the
earth's energy abundantly supplied to us by
Mother Nature!

We can make our own power, thank you.
And we will! How?

Click Here!

And if you're just interested in Solar Power, you
will want to go with...

Beginner's Guide To Solar Panels