A New Energy

There has been much talk about renewable and/or alternative energy sources in recent months as a result of the last year of high energy prices. Now that crude oil and natural gas prices are down sharply from their highs the sense of urgency seems to have faded.

Why would anyone switch their energy mix? Let's look at it from the perspective of a single family home. We want all our lights available when we want, hot water, every appliance running, and comfortable temperatures. Is this possible with ways other than current electrical grid and home heating options? The Solar Decathlon shows that it can. Obviously, this event is an display of excellent engineering talent but it demonstrates that with some changes it would be possible for "average" citizens to live using solar energy. You may not want to make these complete changes but you could make some changes and add solar, wind or other sources to your power supply. With grid-tied systems and net metering becoming more widely available it will be easier to live in a hybrid system where you have the constant supply you are used but with the ability to generate your own electricity. In addition, numerous tax and financial incentives in the U.S. and Canada the financial costs are reduced even further.

There is loads of information out there on the internet for you to find out more about the energy decisions that are right for you. To make a difference you need to be proactive and find ways not only to reduce your overall energy use but to change the type of energy you do use.