Going Green … Gradually

The Slow Journey to Reduce my Carbon Footprint

Posts Tagged solar energy

Basics When You Decide To Learn How To Make Bio Diesel On Your Own

Sep 8

Posted by Victor Garlington in Solar Power

Although it is barely a new concept, the idea of making a bio diesel has gained much popularity these days. Actually, the idea was conceived with the development of the first compression-ignition engine, which used peanut oil. This is an important point to remember when one wants to learn how to make bio diesel.

By definition, bio diesel is the non-petroleum-based fuel obtained from animal and vegetable fat. The fuel can be used on its own or blended with normal diesel in ordinary diesel engines. This makes it a viable alternative for the ordinary fossil fuel, which is expensive.

The process of making bio diesel is relatively easy. This means you can learn the trade from various sources. There is also a huge variety of materials which can be used in making bio diesel including oils and feedstock such as soybean oil and rapeseed oil. It is also possible to get diesel from waste vegetable oils such as those used in restaurants. Other viable sources include animal fats such as tallow, chicken fat and lard. Algae is also used but most of these sources are not viable for commercial production.

If you intend to learn how to make bio diesel, you should identify your source first as the process varies with different materials. In some cases you also require specialized equipment referred to as bio diesel processors while in other cases, these are not necessary. A good example when you do not require specialized equipment is making bio diesel from used cooking oil using sodium hydroxide and methanol. However, this method produces very little amounts.

Once you have established the source the next step is usually testing it for properties such as water content and acidity. This is usually important as it helps determine the state of your end product. The level of acidity and water determine whether the resultant bio diesel will be perfect.

The best oil sources, which will make the process easier, are those with relatively low water and acidic content. This necessitates the need to learn how to test the oil using different methods such as heating or using a water testing kit. Acidity is tested by adding the oil to a pH neutral alcohol, a process called titration.

Filtration is the other major step in making bio diesel. This is very important especially when using exhausted vegetable oil as it helps remove food particles and other contaminants. Drum filters are normally used since they are very effective. In filtration, one should learn about micron rating in order to choose the right filter for your equipment. Normally, a smaller rating means smaller filter holes.

Finally, before one can start full production of bio diesel, it is important to have a test batch. This can be prepared from materials purchased from the local shops. This is also the time you will make a final decision regarding the production equipment. Normally these include collection containers, bio diesel processor, oil filter and transfer capability and bio diesel washing vessel.

The intended production capacity will be one of the main determinants of the equipment you acquire. With these you should be prepared to learn how to make bio diesel.

Locate those many choices for renewable energy by looking online. One choice you have will be biodiesel. To learn more about it head online today to learn those benefits. Unique version for reprint here: Basics When You Decide To Learn How To Make Bio Diesel On Your Own.

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The Cost Of Solar Panels Is Dropping

Sep 5

Posted by Joseph Dungler in Energy

The cost of solar panels will become more affordable in the foreseeable future. This is due partly because of new research found that extends the life of a solar panel. Once expected only to last 20 years, new results found that the true life expectancy of solar panels is 30 years. This will encourage more consumers to choose this kind of renewable energy as an alternative to traditional electricity grids.

Green research institutes as well as various governments have been encouraging consumers to choose solar energy. In addition to encouraging consumers, they have also been encouraging financial institutions such as banks to make the finances available for this type of purchase.

Across Europe, and even China, governments have been giving financial incentives for those private citizens who upgrade to solar energy. This, of course, has decreased the cost of solar panels and increased demand. India and the United States have incentive plans in the works but have yet to release and implement them.

This type of renewable energy usually pays for itself, as mentioned above, because the main costs are actually buying the panels and installation. After that, you do not have to pay for your energy source, unlike regular electricity.

The renewable energy industry, the solar energy field in particular, has very enthusiastic goals. These goals include making solar energy as cheap as the electricity we use today. The aim is to make Europe at least half dependent on solar energy as opposed to electricity grids by 2020.

Increase demand for renewable energy is growing around the globe. This means that the solar panel industry will boom, creating more profits for the companies involved, allowing them to cut costs even further.

By learning how to build a solar panel, you can save money and even build a pool solar panel.

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Stop Wasting Energy, Learn How To Reduce Your Consumption

Aug 30

Posted by Allen Anderson in Wind Energy

Find it difficult every time you set eyes on your electric bill to swallow the bill? Its high time and we need to take serious measures to reduce the power bill. Dont fret. Here are some tips to help you reduce your electric bill. Some of these tips include how to effectively use your current appliances and others include how to make your own energy.

If you have a roommate or a family be sure to have a talk with them about energy and reducing their energy intake. You can entice them with a reward such as a family vacation for all the money youve saved from your energy bill.

Make sure to switch off all the appliances even if you are sure to be back in five minutes. Yes, that will help a lot. Every drop of water makes an ocean.

Making a habit of this is great as itll become second nature for you and your family to save energy in your household.

Taking the time to plan on how to save energy is a great way to think smartly about power. Save energy by using energy efficient bulbs such as CFL bulbs. Use these bulbs instead as they use less energy that traditional light bulbs.

You may not be aware but there are energy saver gadgets you can buy. These gadgets are helpful in that they help you monitor your total energy usage in your house.

Most of us assume on the fact that the rise in electricity bill is due to the vast number of electrical items present at home. But the truth is that the electricity bill is not directly connected or affected due to the number of gadgets, but by the way one uses them.

Take a step forward to avoid using those typical items regularly that consumes lot of power:

Take note to switch off the computer monitor when not in use. It consumes maximum power and it just takes a second to switch it again.

Another way to reduce your electricity bill is to take a look at energy saving guides such as Earth4Energy. They have great solutions to help you save energy and to generate your own personal free energy.

Want to learn more about solar power information? Learn more about your own home solar energy system at Go-SolarEnergy.com!

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Searching For Advice On Alternative Energy Stocks

Aug 19

Posted by Trevor Gartreese in Energy

Is it true that money is what makes the world go around? Crazy as it may sound, there can be instances where people face a variety of problems with money as their only solution. It’s true that life can be unfair at times, but if you are someone who wants to have a strong bank balance by the time you retire, taking a little risk can sometimes bring you that luck. A diverse portfolio can be a solution if you are thinking of investing in different categories. Your risk of losing is minimized and you open up new avenues of earning money. Now isn’t that great?

It’s true that investing in alternative energy stocks carry a high risk, but with risk comes profit. If one needs to earn millions of dollars, taking the first step is necessary, and in this case, a little risk of investing in alternative energy stocks.

Predictions made over the years say that by the year 2013, the market for alternative energy stocks could rise up to around 13$ dollars. If your company was one of the lucky few that invested on alternative energy stocks that the whole world agreed upon, the likelihood of ending up as a millionaire is very high. The right choice will determine the future of you and your company

Oil prices are higher than never before making the need for investing in alternative energy stocks important. Companies that are trying to help America eliminate the crisis of oil shortages, etc, are ready to invest in these stocks as it seems to be the only way to a brighter future.

Although the market for alternative energy stocks will look positive, it is advisable that you get the assistance of a financial advisor who has been studying these stocks closely. The market is full of uncertainties and the alternative energy stocks you choose might not be what the world chooses. Therefore, instead of heading for losses, it is beneficial to study the market, get help from a financial advisor and then move on to invest in alternative energy stocks.

Would you like to find more advice regarding puget sound energy? You will get plenty more helpful information on green living having an eco-friendly lifestyle and alternative energy for your home here: http://gogreenenergyforhome.com

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The Whole World Is Looking At Wind Power Systems

Aug 18

Posted by Adriana Noton in Wind Energy

While wind power systems and other alternative sources of electricity are becoming popular, and even common, in many parts of the world, Canada has been utilizing this form of electricity for years. Wind sourced energy has become a natural part of business and residential energy systems in Canada for quite a while. If you are considering moving to Canada soon, or even doing business with a Canadian company, you should really learn more about the way Canada uses wind energy.

Canada is a country brimming with natural resources and has been very progressive when it comes to seeking alternative energy sources to add to the more traditional coal and hydro power systems. Although wind energy still only accounts for 1% of Canada’s energy needs,

Because wind generated electricity is a great renewable resource and is also good for the environment, the Canadian Wind Energy Association has implemented a strategy to introduce more wind energy usage in the country. According to the Association, there should be 55,000 MW produced in Canada by the year 2025.

Wind power used to be the most popular in Ontario, but recently other cities, including Quebec and Alberta, are using wind turbines to generate small quantities of energy for their residential neighborhoods and businesses as well. By the end of the last century and beginning of this century, all the provinces had looked into using some form of wind power to supplement traditional forms of electricity and fuels.

There is only the province of British Columbia that does not currently have a way to source power from the elements. But they are now making progress and will catch up with other provinces soon. They have negotiated a deal to purchase 300 MW of electricity that has been generated by the use of wind farms. The future where all of the citizens of Canada can benefit from the generation of renewable energy is becoming a reality.

Even so, the amount of electricity that is generated by wind turbines in Canada is still fairly small in comparison to other sources, like coal and hydro-power. There are about 85 wind farms in Canada at this time, and this represents almost 2300 MW of generating capacity. But this number is growing all the time.

Detroit and Chicago are beginning to take notice of what is happening just over the border in Canada. They are considering using renewable energies, including the power of the wind, to provide the energy required to supply the many businesses and plants in their region. The effect that this will have on the environment and the budgets of local government and enterprises that buy into it will be fantastic. Even if it is impractical to rely totally on wind power there is the idea to build more hybrid power stations.

But it is not just governments and big business that can benefit from this trend towards using alternative sources of green energy and other programs like the Feed in Tarriff program. Residents can also get in on the act and buy equipment to create their own power from the wind. A small wind turbine would cost approximately $5000 and generate in the region of 25% to 30% of the amount of power that is normally needed domestically. If you have more space you could go for something that generates more energy, even up to 50%, but you will have to pay about $7000 for the equipment. If your requirements are a bit lower than that and you want to power your off-grid cabin you can get a machine that will supply 200 watts for as little as $600.

It’s possible to run your business through more innovative ways by utilizing inventions like wind power and other alternative energy solutions that make your process more environmental and efficient!

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Build Your Own Affordable Solar Panels

Aug 16

Posted by Dr Jon Elsdon in Solar Power

Solar energy is without a doubt today’s number one alternative energy choice. It is no wonder then that one of the most searched for terms on the internet is cheap solar panels.

With the environmental disaster we are seeing unfold off the gulf of Mexico (The BP oil spill) more and more as a society we are finding our consciousness pricked into looking for cleaner and greener ways to help the environment.

For most people the idea of having their own solar system is indeed desirable, but there has always been the major stumbling block of the enormous cost of the solar panels.

Having a solar system installed can cost many thousands of dollars, money that many households simply do not have to spare, no matter how much they stand to save in the long run or how much they want to help the reduce their carbon footprints.

This alternative comes in the form of a DIY (do it yourself) kit. Now I’m sure some of you just tuned out at the thought of building your own solar panels, sounds complicated doesn’t it? Well surprisingly it isn’t, in fact it’s all most child play.

The kits come in the form of an easy to follow video series and instruction manual which you can downloaded in a matter of seconds online

All the materials you need to build your own panels are available from most hardware stores (tip: save even more money by sourcing the parts from your local salvage or junkyard). Armed with the most basic handyman skills, you can assemble your panels in just a couple of days (I recommend freeing up a weekend to give yourself ample time).

It’s a great project to get your children in on, provides them with an alternative to playing computer games all day, gives them a lesson in environmental issues and energy conservation. You won’t believe the buzz they will get when they realize the solar panel they built is powering a laptop etc.

Not only will you stand to save a lot of cash by building your own cheap solar panels as opposed to purchasing them pre built, you will also cut (depending on the number of panels you build and your homes energy needs) anywhere up to 80% (in some cases above this) off your traditional power usage, this can translate to hundreds of dollars saved on every power bill.

So whether you are looking to help reduce your carbon footprint or simply want to save a few dollars, take a look at the following link for side by side reviews of the leading Solar Power Kits and build your own solar panels today.

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Solar Power Help

Aug 15

Posted by Kurt Rose in Solar Power

Solar energy is a great way to run and provide power to many of the appliances in your home. Despite the fact, that there are no abundant campaigns to promote the use of this renewable energy such as making a solar power system, you can instill a positive impact to the lives of other people, when you share your knowledge on how to make solar power.

Since solar power is environmentally friendly, you can provide a benefit to Planet Earth. You should also take note that this equipment is relatively easy to construct but it is also economical and will not hurt your wallet either. It would be very beneficial that you take advantage of the solar power soon, so you and your family can experience a more cost efficient lifestyle.

If you want to make solar power, you will be glad to know that this equipment is easy to construct and not costly. You should switch to this means of providing electricity to all as many of your appliances as possible. The only thing that you should carry out when you plan to make solar power is to research and give out some time to accomplish your solar power tool.

There are numerous Do-It-Yourself manuals and guides on how to make solar power, all you need to do is to appropriately learn about all the procedures as delineated by the instructional guidelines. The comprehensive details on how to make solar power on these guides offer easy-to-do step by step process, which oftentimes even incorporate illustrated images for your convenience. Moreover, you should ensure that the suppliers or dealers of the components and materials you will draw on when making solar power are highly reliable and reputable.

Aside from environmental advantages we can derive from solar energy, there are many other benefits we can enjoy by using solar energy. Having your own solar powered electrical system will give you the freedom to be less dependent or even fully disconnected from you your electric company. When you install your renewable energy system in your home you will increase the value of your home by thousands. You can save hundreds if not thousands of dollars for the rest of your life by installing a solar power system instead of wasting money on expensive power bills. Making your own solar powered device is great fun, you can share doing with your family and friends.

It is important to leave yourself plenty of time when planning to start your solar power project. The extra time and patience you allow during the building process will result in a better constructed solar system that will have less problems down the road.

If you make solar power, you will save some money that you can utilize in other things such as vacations and out of town trips. Moreover, you will have the capability to take pleasure in all the appliances in your house, wherein you can do movie marathon without the hassle of paying an expensive electric monthly bill.

Kurt Rose is an online business owner who writes about such issues as Solar Energy Home and how to Healthy Home.

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Solar And Wind Power Ebooks: What Is The Best Wind And Solar Power Design?

Aug 12

Posted by Darius Cane in Wind Energy

Alternative Power Systems Using Wind and Solar Technology

Wind and solar power design for residential homes are no longer limited to a committed or the elite few. Lots of environmentally aware homeowners have currently chosen to apply sun and wind gathering systems to partly or fully offset their electricity usage. This choice has become increasingly more feasible as new technologies, materials, and analysis continue to produce wind and solar components both more affordable and trustworthy. Alternative energy sources, particularly renewable ones, are becoming ever more attractive with the present fossil fuel emergency. With the correct research and implementation, these systems are able to provide solar and wind power for residential homes and cut back our dependency on fossil fuels.

The first step would be to see which of the various supply of energy would be the most accessible within your area. For places with high in isolation or exposure to the sun, a system of photovoltaic cells and batteries may work best and supply the most cost efficient renewable energy. On the other hand, areas with high average wind rates and little to no obstructions would obviously advantage also from putting in wind turbines. When considering systems for providing Wind And Solar Power Design for residential homes, location is a exceptionally important matter.

There are distinct collectors for solar and wind energy systems. Solar energy systems depend on photovoltaic cells, which utilizes energy from sunlight to generate electricity from special materials. Their success is primarily based on how much surface area they cover, so designs should take this into consideration. Wind energy systems, on the other hand, depend on wind turbines that turn once the wind blows and change their rotation into electricity. This implies that it is the quantity of turbines and their height and placing that are important factors determining their effectiveness. Solar and wind systems for residential homes become much more dependable when these collectors are optimally positioned and set up in the correct manner.

Wind And Solar Power Design: Summary

Wind and solar power design systems can after all be employed together. What proportion every specific supply is tapped will depend on the particular locations attributes. Some owners may select to choose a only solar arrangement, while other people can utilize only wind, whereas other people still use a small amount of both. With the many distributors for either solar or wind energy system components, interested consumers will have lots of knowledge at hand to produce a decision. In any situation, utilizing Wind and solar power design for residential homes will frequently show to be not only environmentally friendly, nevertheless in addition good value for money within the long run.

Want to find out more about Wind And Solar Power Design, then visit Darius Cane’s site on how to choose the best Solar And Wind Power Ebooks for your needs. Free reprint avaialable from: Solar And Wind Power Ebooks: What Is The Best Wind And Solar Power Design?.

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Can Homemade Solar Cells Really Save You A Lot Of Money?

Aug 5

Posted by Dr Jon Elsdon in Energy

Building your own homemade solar cells makes a lot of sense in the current economic and environmental climate we find ourselves in.

Solar energy has been the main contender to take over our energy needs. This form of energy is essentially free (aside from installation costs), limitless (solar is a renewable energy source) and has no harmful impact on the environment.

There is only one major drawback and it’s a big one. Unfortunately purchasing and having a solar power system installed is an extremely costly exercise, one which prevents the vast majority of home owners ever seriously considering it as an option.

There is however a solution to this dilemma, making your own homemade solar cells. Building your own homemade solar cells will save you thousands of dollars that would need to be spent purchasing and having installed a retail system from a solar specialist.

Hold on there! I hear you say, you don’t have a PhD in physics and as far as your handyman skills go you have two left thumbs! Well you need not worry, building your own homemade solar panels is a surprisingly easy and hassle free process. The main thing you need to do is get an instruction book to walk you step by step through the process.

There is no great expense in materials either, all materials can be found at your local hardware store and will set you back around $200.

The financial savings you stand to reap, once you have your cells built and installed, are substantial. With traditional off the grid energy production slashed by as much as 80% this translates to hundreds of dollars slashed of each and every power bill you will ever receive.

So as you can see building your own solar panels can save you a lot of money, why not get to it and build your own system today, simply check out the following link for more information Home Made Energy.

To read reviews of the latest do it yourself instruction guides, check out the following link DIY Solar Power and solar shop adelaide .

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Solar Panel – How To Build Your Own Solar Panel

Jul 27

Posted by Joseph Dungler in Energy

With rising prices, it is good to get cheaper power. With solar power, it is practically energy for free, and could end up earning you money. For even more affordability, it is possible to build your own solar panel.

The first thing is ensure you have the necessary tools and equipment. This will mean sourcing the best solar cells for you, which should be given a good portion of time to decide. There are many out there.

There are a few other items needed. Plywood, a length of 1 x1, copper wire, a diode line, batteries and Plexiglas will be required for construction. You will also need a circular saw, screws and screwdriver, caulk, outdoor paint, soldering kit and glue.

The first step will be to draw a grid, suitable to your solar cells, on the plywood, (use them as a template). Having determined the size of the panel by this, you can cut the plywood to size and the fun can really start.

The 1 x 1 will need to be cut into sections depending on the size of the base, and attached using the screws and the caulk. Once all set, this should be painted with the outdoor paint; though not over the grid of course.

The solar cells now need to be glued into place. However, they first need to be attached in a series. This is quite simple; soldering the tabs at the back of each together. It does need to be done carefully though, as the cells are delicate.

The copper wire should now be attached from the cell to the electrical system and batteries. To ensure no power is lost in the opposite direction, a diode line will also need to be attached at this point.

Finally, a suitable sized piece of Plexiglas should be attached with caulk. This will ensure it is weatherproofed, and cannot be damaged by debris and the like. Having learned to build your own solar panel, perhaps you’ll make enough power to sell back to the grid?

By learning to build your own solar panel you can save money, help the environment, and generate electricity using free energy from the sun with do it yourself solar panels.

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