Sustainable energy is an energy that comes from a renewable energy source that will never deplete and creates minimal environmental impact for future generations. While we love the idea that sustainable energy sources generate less pollution and environmental risks--we may not know what we can do as consumers to use more sustainable energy sources at home. Do we have the choice to use non-fossil fuel-based energy sources? How can we incorporate more sustainable energy usage into our home life?
Do your Research and Make Plans. If you would like to incorporate sustainable energy into your home--begin researching and learning everything you can about the pros and cons of the various options. Following energy industry sources like Douglas Healy or organizations like EESI can keep you informed in energy-related advances and news. Once you have found a potential energy source that you feel is right for you--it is time to plan a course to harness that energy. This planning may involve a move to a more suitable area, researching financing options, or considering the pros and cons of blending sustainable energy with traditional fossil fuel-based sources.
Consider the Value of Solar Energy. While every home in America may not be suited to full power via solar energy--there are certainly ways for many of us to take advantage of this renewable, sustainable source of energy. Using solar power, homeowners can reduce traditional energy needs and lessen environmental impact. However, bringing this energy to a residential home does come with a pretty hefty price tag and some homes cannot take advantage of the option due to location or shading. New resources exist that allow for government funding in part to reduce the costs of installation--and improvements in solar technology are making it smaller, more efficient, and easier to maintain for homeowners to implement even in combination with on-grid energy sources.
Wind Energy Sources Exist. If you have ever driven by the large wind-turbine farms in Indiana--it can be fascinating to consider using the power of wind and nature to energize your own home. Wind turbines depend on the weather and are not capable of fully powering a home consistently in most locations without additional energy storage capabilities. However, technology is improving to allow better storage of wind energy for use during times when wind speeds decrease. Those considering wind turbine energy must consider the space requirements and costs needed to install a wind turbine--and find an area with weather patterns suited to its sustainable operation to weigh the pros and cons of wind energy.
Is your Home a Candidate for Hydropower? Or BioFuel Technology? Hydroelectric power may be a more reasonable, reliable, sustainable energy option than wind or solar energy for homeowners near a proper, flowing water source. While environmental concerns arise from aspects of production and land management from plant energy production, research and development into the areas of biomass energy and biofuel sources continue to grow--and improve.
While these sustainable energy options may not be presently affordable and available in mainstream homes--the technology may someday become more accessible. Planning now may allow you to adopt more sustainable energy practices sooner rather than later.
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