{Solar Power Options}

Alternative Energy Investing
CLIMATE SPECTATOR Q&A: Penny Wong
The federal minister for climate change says that despite the renewable energy target and other policy measures, a cap on pollution is the only way Australia will meet the targets both parties have signed up to. 21 Aug 2010 12:04 AM
Biden on Alternative Energy

Solar Power Questions:

What is the best type of alternative energy to invest in?

If I wanted to use some type of alternative energy (wind, solar, anything else you can think of) to power the things in my house, whats the best way to go to get the most energy out of it at the least cost? Or what would be worthwhile to have in the long run?

Great question, but there isn’t just one renewable energy that gains the title of “best”. Micro hydro, solar, geothermal, bio fuel and wind turbines are all great, but it really depends on your home, neighborhood and your needs.
Micro hydro:
- Ideal condition: access to year-round flowing water and a permit to build a system
- Positive: produces power 24 hours a day
- Negative: if too much water is diverted it may damage the ecoststem
Solar:
- Ideal condition: south-facing areas with no obstructions
- Positive: tax incentives are widely available
- Negative: not all roofs can hold the extra weight
Geothermal:
- Ideal condition: large yard space for digging
- Positive: cuts down on electricity bills as it uses 25-50 percent less electricity.
- Negative: difficult to find experienced contractors
Bio fuel:
- Ideal condition: access to soybean oil or recycled restaurant grease
- Positive: it is a domestic and renewable source
- Negative: it costs more per gallon than conventional oil
Wind turbines:
- Ideal condition: a home or building with at least an acre of property
- Positive: wind energy can lower electricity bills by 50-90 percent
- Negative: there are no federal tax credits for homeowners yet

Here are a few articles that may help you locate what energy is the best for your needs.
In the Market for Alternative Energy

http://www.naturalhomemagazine.com/Inspiration/2002-05-01/ALTERNATIVE-ENERGY.aspx

Energy Efficiency for the Home, Saving Money for All

http://www.naturalhomemagazine.com/2008-08/energy-efficiency-for-the-home-saving-money-for-all.aspx

Do Your Own Energy Audit

http://www.naturalhomemagazine.com/Inspiration/2008-01-01/Energy_Audit.aspx

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