Alternative Energy

Today we researched Solar, Geothermal, Hydroelectric, Tidal, and Wind as alternative energy sources. The great thing about all of these methods is that there are no CO2 emissions. Solar, wind, and tidal energy is there for the taking. Remember that there is more initial outlay of moneyat this time to have an energy system based on these alternatives that will power a home or a building. But, considering costs at this point, within 8 - 10 years, the owner should reach a break even point. The coast of North Carolina has great potential to utilize wind power. Solar energy is possible in most of the state, although a back up heating system might be necessary for days when there just isn't enough sun to produce enough heat to heat the building or heat water to adequately supply the building. Just recently, several North Carolina energy providers have joined a number of other states that allow homeowners who produce their own energy to upload to the grid and receive credit.

http://www.ncsc.ncsu.edu/news/news_story.cfm?ID=336

There is a real necessity for people who are building or remodeling a home to decrease the impact of that home on the environment. This article speaks to incentives available in North Carolina to help realize energy efficiency and more.

http://www.ncsc.ncsu.edu/information_resources/renewable_energy_incentives.cfm

Remember, we talked about utilizing the constant temperature of the soil or groundwater found right in the backyard to heat and cool homes. Here is are articles that addresses savings to be had by pumping air or water into the earth where the temperature is constant year round!

http://nexplanrecycling.com/geothermal.html

http://www.waterfurnace.com/

These are all methods of heating, cooling, and generating electrical power that will be common during your adult years. Have fun becoming informed before you even think about purchasing your own home!!

I'm also including an article I read this morning on CNN about alternative fuels to power cars. Human beings are very smart! Even though we have depended on the gasoline engine for decades, I am certain that some enterprising soul or company will develop alternative engines that are cleaner and better for the environment and also an affordable alternative to the current vehicles. We just need to change how we think. Change is always hard, isn't it? Sometimes changing for the better will require a little inconvenience.

http://www.cnn.com/TECH/