Alternative Energy Sources

Basics of Alternative Energy Sources

Alternative energy is usually considered a break from non-renewable fossil fuels and oil to a renewable, cleaner system of producing energy. Fossil fuels will run out at some point. We can’t get them back – once they’re gone, they’re gone. A major benefit to researching and using alternative energy options is that we waste less of the fossil fuels we actually have left, and protect our ability to eventually maintain energy in spite of few or no non-renewable energy sources.

The biggest benefit to using alternative energy is that it’s a cleaner, safer option for both people and the planet. Global warming is the result of overuse of oil and fossil fuels which don’t burn clean and in fact create massive pollution issues.

Right now of course we have oil and other non-renewable energy available, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t quit using it in trade for cleaner alternative sources. Besides being better for the planet, alternative energy can provide you with an energy efficient house and save you money in the long run. It also means that you aren’t dependent on the energy grid, or electric company. Say there’s a black out due to weather. While everyone else in the neighborhood is out of power, a home powered by solar or wind may still be up and running.

Following are some sources of alternative energy.

Solar Generated Energy

Solar energy is not as unreachable as many think. You don’t have to live in the hot sunny desert to utilize solar. Solar power is actually something most people across the globe can use, even if you live in an often cloudy and rainy area like Oregon, or a place with extra cloudy winters like the Northeastern U.S.

By the simplest definition, solar systems work by absorbing sunlight and converting it into energy – such as heat, hot water, and light. Of course solar systems vary wildly but all are more earth-friendly then using oil or gas for energy. The best solar systems combine passive solar techniques with other active solar technology such as photovoltaics. Solar benefits include:

• Clean energy source that’s ultimately renewable and won’t harm the planet in any significant ways.
• Solar has become mainstream enough, that it’s not expensive to build a solar home or to remodel your existing home for solar.
• The same techniques that work to heat your home with a passive solar system also work to cool your home. When done correctly, passive solar provides a comfortable home year round.

There are many more advantages to using solar generated energy. To learn more check out the resources at the end of this article.

Wind Generated Energy

Like the sun, wind can also be used to generate clean, renewable energy. Wind, thus far is not as predictable as solar power, and can’t be used in quite as many places solo. However, when paired with a solar system, wind is a great compliment system. Such as, when the cloud blocks the sun, wind tends to pick up.

Other countries have used wind power for some time with success and wind has recently gained massive popularity in the U.S., becoming one of, if not the fastest growing alternative energy option around. Like solar, there are plenty of wind systems available. Researching the best wind power option for your particular site and home is very important. Not all systems works as well for all areas. This is one of those times you may want to meet with a renewable energy consultant.

The good news is that wind power options are becoming easier to self install. You can even set up your own home made wind turbine.

To see wind resources visit the resource section at the bottom of this article.

Other Energy Sources

While solar and wind are well-known alternative energy sources, there are plenty of other up and coming renewable energy sources. These sources combined with solar and wind, will hopefully help to completely take the place of non-renewable energy. These are the ones to watch:

• Geothermal energy
• Biomass energy
• Hydrogen
• Hydropower
• Ocean energy

Like solar and wind, all of the above have pros and cons, but all are worth learning about.

Resources

To learn more about the above alternative energy sources, visit these helpful resources for books, websites, and articles.

• The Natural House by Daniel D. Chiras: This great book walks you through how to pull off solar and wind generated energy at your house, among other great topics.
• Primary Alternative Fuel Sources
• 30th Anniversary Edition Solar Living Sourcebook: This book is pretty much considered the bible of solar energy by most green heads. This incredibly useful book also offers information on all sorts of other energy sources, including where to buy products for building.
• Financing Renewable Energy
• Solar Sun Tunnels – one easy way to incorporate solar into literally any home in less than half a day.
• Solar energy: Huge site about solar energy.
• Passive cooling and heating
• Geothermal Residential Heating and Cooling
• Solar powered water pump