Renewable Energy Tips - Benefits and Affordable Solutions

Earth Day is this month on April 22, but we have the power to think renewable and take action all month and even all year round. Many options are available for those who want to be environmentally conscience through solar energy solutions without breaking their budgets. Also, the rewards can have earthly as well as financial benefits for those looking to make long term solar investments in larger systems such as solar electric panels, solar water heaters, geothermal, and/or solar air conditioning.

Affordable Solar Energy Solutions
Solar walkway lights, solar garden lights, and solar flood and motion sensor lights are affordable (many from under $10 up to $100), easy to install by the homeowner, and come in a variety of styles to suit your home design. They are available at local hardware stores or online with specialty lighting dealers.

Solar cooking can be a great way to use solar power for outdoor recreational activities such as barbequing, backyard parties, picnics, and beach outings. Solar cookers can be made or purchased (kits from $25 up to $300) and are generally good for baking, grilling, or slow cooking. More Details>>>

Solar Attic Fans (many fans from $150 up to $500) offer much needed ventilation and cooling in the attic space where surface heat from the roof is absorbed into the attic and then transferred down into living spaces through ductwork in the home. Solar attic fans also reduce moisture in the attic to prevent dangerous mold and allergens from building up and entering the home through air vents.  More Details>>>

Solar space heaters/solar collectors are an affordable way to supplement your home heating by 30-70% in the winter. They can range from a couple hundred dollars to a few thousand, but rebates and tax incentives may also be available through your local utility.

The Earthly Benefits of Renewables
Renewable energy unlike other forms of fuel-burning energy does not release harmful emissions such as carbon dioxide and methane into the Earth’s atmosphere to generate power. Solar energy in particular is quiet. Solar collectors make no noise while gathering the sun’s energy.

The Financial Benefits of Renewables
The initial investment in larger systems such as solar electric panels, solar water heaters, geothermal, and/or solar air conditioning can be high, but the payback period is short compared to other energy related investments. The reason is once the equipment is set up; the sun’s power is abundant and free! Tax credits and utility rebates are also available to help offset the initial cost.

For more information on solar energy or to find a contractor visit http://elahomerepairs.org/goingsolar.html.