Alternative and Renewable Energies – Save the Planet and Save Money Too?
There is always something new to consider when researching alternative and renewable energies. Rising oil prices, tax incentives for those who use alternative energies, as well as the creation of more and more alternative energies each year, is leading to a global change in energy use.
Most homes today are actually damaging the environment, and people don’t realize that things can be done to rectify this. The average North American household produces approximately twice the amount of greenhouse gas emissions that the average car does. And dollar for dollar, half of the energy costs go to either heating or cooling the home. There are things that can be done about this, however, if homeowners take the proper steps.
Americans spend, on average approximately $1500 per year on their home energy. Up to 40% of this could be saved with minimal effort. Rooftop gardens, for one, will improve a home’s air quality as well as providing a natural cooling system, which means less money spent on air conditioning bills. Well-insulated garages and basements prevent heat from leaking out of homes. New, well-insulated windows and doors will pay for themselves many times over in energy savings. By paying attention to these things and taking steps to change them, people can fix their homes in order to use less energy without even spending a dime on alternative and renewable energies.
For those who want to move further along the path towards alternative and renewable energies, there are many choices. Some require fabrication and installation, but they can make a big impact on the amount of energy that is used in a home.
1. Solar Homes – These are energy-efficient alternatives. In 2007, a poll revealed that nearly 90% of people think that solar power is a good idea for new homes. The premise is that the home will generate more power than it uses, which means that there is no need to have other types of power for the home.
2. Wind Energy – This is another form of renewable power that a lot of people believe in. Generated by turbines, it can serve many different energy needs. Price-wise, it costs about the same, or less, than other types of electricity.
3. Micro Hydro Power – Is another form of renewable energy which can provide power for areas further away from the power grid. It is installed in rivers and streams, and doesn’t disrupt the environment because it isn’t a dam. Water wheels turn with the natural flow of the water, producing power.
It’s definitely worth checking out the many types of natural and renewable energies that are gaining popularity. They’re good for the environment, and can be very good for your wallet too!
For free tips on how to save money by using alternative and renewable energies in your own home, be sure to visit http://www.green-earth-power.com Subscribe to our newsletter and grab a free report on Energy Efficiency for your home
Author: Cindy Milling
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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