The Undeniable Benefits of Solar Energy

Over the past years, solar energy technology has evolved immensely. More people are using solar energy than ever -- which is a good thing because each year, 75 million barrels of oil are saved by those utilizing solar energy. But despite all the good solar energy and green energy services offer, people still aren't quite sure if solar energy is worth the investment. Well, we're here to tell you that it definitely is, and here are just a few reasons why.

It's good for the environment: This is one of the most obvious benefits of solar energy. As one of the most popular sustainable energy options, solar energy has little to no effect on the environment. This is compared to other non-renewable energy sources, like oil and coal, which emit harmful gases and contribute to global warming. When people decide to use energy from a renewable source, like the sun, they're significantly reducing their carbon footprint and overall impact on the environment. So when you choose to consider green energy services and invest in solar energy, you're doing your part to protect the environment from further harm.

It's affordable: Many people make the mistake of thinking that solar energy is extremely expensive and only the wealthiest of people can afford it. But that's not the case at all. In fact, solar panel systems are more affordable than ever because so many people have started using them. While the upfront cost of installing solar panels may be a little expensive, the money saved on energy costs down the line will outweigh that initial cost. Within a few short years, the system will pay for itself and then continue to help homeowners save money on energy bills for as long as the system is installed.

It's a secure energy source: Unfortunately, the resources we currently depend on to provide us energy will run out eventually. And then what? When we invest our time and energy into using things like coal and oil, we're just buying ourselves time. But that big, fiery ball in the sky? That's not going anywhere. That's one of the many great things about investing in solar energy -- you know you'll never run out of an energy source. Solar panels use next to nothing compared to the amount of energy the sun produces, meaning we'll never run out of energy when we utilize solar energy.

As you can see, there are a number of reasons to invest in solar energy -- and other green energy services as well. With the right services and equipment, you can enjoy clean, inexpensive energy from the sun for years to come.

Ways To Keep You And Your Bills Cool

This summer has been so hot it's been breaking records from coast to coast. In fact, in the month of July, Death Valley, California did break the record for hottest month in the history of the United States with an average daily temperature of 108.1 degrees Fahrenheit.

Air conditioners are working overtime these summer months and we're looking at conserving energy as much as we can. Read on if you want to save on energy costs and not be taken to the cleaners by your utility company.

Look out for leaks

Yes, leaks are difficult to actually look out for. However small they may be, they're present and are your enemy if you're looking to save on energy costs. Sealing air leaks can save you up to 20% on annual heating and cooling bills, not to mention making your home a more comfortable place to exist. Don't cool the outdoors, get those leaks looked at.

Tailor your physical environment

It's easy to let an air conditioner do all the work when it's stifling outside, but you have a bunch of manual things that can be done in alliance with your air conditioner. Outside, having trees that block a portion of the sun (especially in the late afternoon) does a great deal to reduce your house's internal temperature. Inside, drawing shades and closing blinds while the sun is brightest will keep the window borne heat at bay throughout the day. Then, at night, open the windows and let a cool evening breeze plus a fan or two recirculate refreshing air.

Get smart

On the other end of the spectrum from the previous point, more advanced technology is your friend. Use programmable thermostats to your advantage. If you know there are certain times of day you won't be home, raise the temperature, then run the air conditioning only when people are home. Reducing energy costs is about consciously using energy directly when it's needed, not cooling an empty house.

Trying to stay cool this summer might seem like a lot of work, but that extra work you put in will be reflected in a comfortable home with a little extra money in your pocket.

Biggest Summer Energy Expenses and How to Reduce The​m​

If you're looking for ways to save some money so you can spend it on fun-filled summer activities, you should start by evaluating your energy expenses. Summer tends to cause an increase in energy bills -- fortunately, there are easy ways to reduce these costs.

Biggest Summer Energy Expenses

Like every other time of the year, summer comes with its own unique energy challenges. Let's look at a few of the biggest culprits for increasing energy bills.

Cranking up the air conditioning: When the temperatures start to rise, everyone's first instinct is to turn up the AC. And while it's nice to have a cool, comfortable home, air conditioning can cause your energy bills to increase significantly. So try to remember that the closer the temperature is inside to outside, the lower your energy bills will be. Try other methods to cool down like opening windows for a cross breeze and utilize ceiling and floor fans.

Letting cool air escape: If your home has cracks and leaks around windows or doors, you may be letting your cooled air sneak out of your home. While this may not seem like a big use of energy, sealing air leaks and ensuring your home is properly insulated can save you up to 20% on cooling bills. When there are even small holes or leaks, your cooled air can easily escape, making your cooling costs skyrocket.

Using more hot water: With the kids out of school, your dishwasher and washing machine are probably running more often. And it's important to remember that you'll use the same amount of water whether or not the machine is completely full. So to avoid wasting water and energy, make sure you're always doing a full load of dishes or clothes.

Renewable Energy Options to Consider

Fortunately, if you consider using sustainable sources of energy, you can save significant amounts on your energy bills all year long. There are plenty of sustainable sources of energy to explore to fit your wants and needs.

Solar panels: With solar energy becoming one of the most popular renewable energy sources, solar panel costs continue to decrease. Even if you can only afford one or two, utilizing solar energy is a great way to save money on energy expenses, especially with the hot summer sun beating down.

Solar oven: If you're looking for more of a DIY source of sustainable energy, you should consider making your own solar oven to cook your meals with. They're easily made out of a few common materials and work by trapping sunlight. This is a great project to get the whole family involved with too.

Hydroelectric power: If you have a source of flowing water nearby, you can make some of the water flow through a turbine to produce energy. While you may need a professional to help install the hydropower generator, it's a great way to utilize natural resources to help power your home.

By exploring some sustainable sources of energy and being smart about how you're using energy at home, you can significantly reduce your energy costs this summer.

Hawaii College on Track to Run Completely on 100% Renewable Energy by 2035

Three years ago, Hawaii pledged to use renewable energy sources to generate all of its electricity by 2045. While the whole state is working towards this goal, the University of Hawaii (UH) is stepping up to do its part. Working with the Hawaiian Legislature, UH set a goal for the university to be "net-zero" by January 1, 2035. "Net-zero" means the total amount of energy that is consumed by the university will equal the amount of energy it creates.

University officials announced that UH's Maui College is set to be the first U.S. college campus to use solar systems to completely make the switch from fossil fuels. The university hopes the system will be up and running by 2019 and will consist of 2.8 megawatts of solar PV.

"We are proud to move the entire University of Hawaii System closer to its net-zero energy mandate, to celebrate UH Maui College's achievement and to position the Oahu community college campuses within reach of 100 percent renewable energy generation," said UH Vice President for Community Colleges John Morton.

Leeward Community College, Honolulu Community College, Kapiolani Community College, and Windward Community College are not far behind the Maui campus and are planning to see reductions of fossil fuel use by at least 70%.

This sustainable energy project is not only saving the state energy and money, but providing educational options for these college students as well.

How Can You Start Saving Energy?

When you see the bill you get from your electricity company, you may be wondering how you can reduce your energy use at home. Let's discuss a few energy saving tips you can try.

Change your lightbulbs: Homeowners can reduce their energy use by up to 80% simply by utilizing today's energy-efficient LED, CFL, and halogen incandescent light bulbs. If you're still using traditional light bulbs in your house, now is the time to make the switch. Your electricity company may even have some suggestions for which light bulbs would be best.

Install new windows and doors. The windows and doors in your house might not be doing their job as well as you may think. Hot and cool air both escape through inefficient windows and doors, costing homeowners money on bloated HVAC bills. By choosing energy efficient models that stop air leaks, you can ensure your home stays comfortable without racking up your energy bill. 

While it may not seem like these little things make a difference, they really do! In today's society, every little bit of energy reduction helps -- so do what you can to reduce your energy use at home.

Who's in Charge of Energy Regulations in the U.S.?

Regulating the energy industry in America is not done by just one regulatory organization, but rather many different organizations that each focus on something specific. These organizations can either be created by federal law or be part of government agencies and provide varying levels of energy regulations. This article provides a brief introduction to the companies that oversee the energy regulations in the U.S. energy industry.

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

DOE was created in 1977 and has the broadest responsibilities in the energy regulations of power generation and electric suppliers and distribution at the federal level.

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)

The NRC was created by Congress in 1974. After the passing of the Energy Reorganization Act, NCR was to oversee the growing nuclear energy industry. The commission is led by five commissioners selected by the U.S. Senate and is in charge of regulating the creation of nuclear energy, as well as the use of nuclear materials. In addition to inspecting and licensing nuclear power plants and reactors, the commission also has the responsibility of regulating uranium mining and nuclear waste.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)

After the Federal Power Act of 1920, FERC was created. This organization oversees the electricity, oil, and natural gas industries. Some additional responsibilities include:

• Reviewing electricity project proposals
• Inspecting public and private sector electricity plants
• Providing licenses for electricity plants
• Regulating interstate wholesale electricity agreements
• Monitoring the electricity markets
• Enforcing regulations

Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE)

Surface coal and related environmental affairs are regulated by the OSMRE. In 1977, the Surface Control and Mining Act created the bureau. A prime duty of OSMRE includes working with Americans to confirm land and water quality after a mining project has been completed.

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)

Founded more than 100 years ago, NIST promotes scientific innovation within areas including:

• Nanotechnology
• Computer Chips
• Energy Production

Research is sponsored by the institute and it also recognizes achievements in areas it supports. It also focuses on sustainable energy development. Renewable energy sources are becoming increasingly available. In fact, about 10% of U.S. energy consumption was from renewable energy sources in 2015.

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM)

With offices in California, Alaska, and Louisiana, BOEM's main focus is environmental protection. The agency's responsibilities include management of oil and gas leases, environmental reviews, as well as additional renewable energy projects.
Another key responsibility is managing marine energy exploration and mining in Alaska, the Pacific regions, and the Gulf of Mexico.

All of these organizations work together in ensuring that all organizations in the United States are following regulations and working towards keeping the country productive yet safe.

Small Energy Saving Tips That Can Lead to Big Cost Savings

It seems like everyone is going green these days, and for good reason. Reducing your personal environmental impact isn't just about hopping on a trendy bandwagon, it can also be a matter of self-preservation.   

Energy reduction isn't rocket science, but energy conservation can seem complicated, especially if you're new to all things environmental. The reality is that conserving energy can be a whole lot easier than you think. You don't have to take drastic measures such as composting, buying an electric car, or completely changing your lifestyle in order to experience major energy savings! By being mindful and practicing of a few simple energy saving tips, you can save on energy costs in some pretty impressive ways.
Here are three small energy saving tips that have a big impact!

Keep up with general home maintenance
A well maintained home is an energy efficient one! Whether it's a season tune up for your furnace, regular electrical inspections, or routine plumbing maintenance, taking care of your home's air, electrical, and plumbing systems ensures they are operating efficiently at all times. Old, outdated, or damaged systems use more energy than needed and may also pose danger. Making sure your appliances and home systems are in good working order will save you money on both energy and repair costs.

Install low flow faucets and shower heads
The kitchen and bathroom provide the most water wasting opportunities, so it's especially important to be mindful of water usage in these areas of your home. Low flow faucets and shower heads take the guess work out of using less water by reducing the amount of gallons per minute without compromising performance. All you have to do is have them installed by your plumber and then watch the energy savings flow back to you. It's really that simple!

Only use energy efficient light bulbs
Here's a bright idea; stop using old school light bulbs and make the simple switch to energy efficient alternatives. Did you know that you can reduce energy usage from roughly a third to an impressive 80% just by using energy-efficient halogen incandescents, CFLs and LEDs? Not only do these light bulbs last longer – which increases their cost efficiency on top of reducing your electric bill – but they also provide better quality light. This is one the easiest energy saving tips that is an absolute must!

3 Great Alternative Energy Sources for Your Home

If you haven't heard, deregulated energy markets are currently sweeping the nation, affording homeowners and businesses the option to choose how they get their power and where it comes from. The deregulation of electricity markets has eliminated the monopoly of municipal entities, giving you more freedom than ever when it comes to your power suppliers. 

The average American home currently used 903 kilowatt hours per month, which results in a bill of $107. You can drastically reduce these monthly  costs by switching to alternative energy sources that both save you money as well as reduce your environmental footprint. Here are three of the best alternative energy sources that you should be considering for your home or business: 

• Solar power. U.S. electricity use in 2013 was a whopping 13 times greater than it was in 1950, and the introduction of solar energy is one of the major reasons that statistic is falling by the year. Alternative electricity companies that offer solar power now have the means to provide affordable solar panels for both homes and businesses due to the decreased costs of the materials used to create them. Since the market was deregulated, you can now even finance or lease solar panels. There has never been a better time to invest in this revolutionary technology. 

• Wind power. One of the oldest and most trusted alternative energy sources on the planet, wind power is making a major comeback since deregulated energy markets began to surface. If you live on at least one acre of land with strong wind resources, you absolutely must consider the benefits of wind power for your home. Conservation groups across the nation continue to support initiatives that lower the cost of wind power systems, and you can save about 90% on your monthly bills once your system is correctly installed. 

• Hydropower. Many homes and businesses are already located in an area that supports hydropower, and the recent deregulation of electricity has now made it possible to utilize this natural resource. One of the largest sources of hydropower in the U.S., the Hoover Dam, is a perfect example of just how inexpensive this technology is. The electricity generated from the Hoover Dam sells as a wholesale price of just 1.6 cents per kilowatt hour, which is exponentially cheaper than most other energy sources. As an added bonus, hydropower is naturally-produced and has almost zero effect on the environment.

Get in touch with alternative electricity suppliers in your area to see what types of alternative energy sources are available for your home or business. The way electricity is used in the U.S. will continue to evolve with each passing year, and you can be one of the first to take advantage of these breakthrough technologies.

What You Should Know About Your Energy Options

Electricity deregulation is a powerful concept that allows consumers to buy their energy from alternative electricity suppliers and still have their power delivered through the regular utility company. More and more areas have deregulated their electrical energy markets in the past two decades (primarily in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Texas), and some states have partial or suspended deregulation (such as California). One of the most powerful arguments for deregulation is that energy rates in many deregulated markets have fallen significantly more than rates in regulated markets since 2008. A benefit consumers get from a deregulated system is that they can choose suppliers that share their values in terms of green electricity generation. But in order to make good choices, it’s important to know what the major sources of electricity in the United States are. Here’s a simple summary of some of the most important players: Coal PowerA significant amount of power generation in the U.S. comes from the burning of coal; as of 2013, coal made up about 39% of the country’s electricity production, and 90% of domestically mined coal is purchased by utility companies for this purpose. However, there are numerous environmental concerns regarding coal, and the Environmental Protection Agency has placed restrictions on coal plants due to their carbon emissions and mercury pollution. Nuclear PowerAs of 2013, nuclear power plants generated 19.4% of the country’s electricity, and the U.S. is the largest supplier of commercial nuclear power worldwide. The environmental impact of nuclear energy is generally considered to be mixed; nuclear power plants are low in emissions, but nuclear waste can cause serious problems if not properly disposed of. Wind PowerWind power accounts for a much smaller portion of the current energy market, but is rapidly growing. In the year preceding August 2014, wind energy made up 4.33% of generated electrical energy. The greatest upside of wind-generated electricity, of course, is that wind is a renewable energy source. The only major environmental concern associated with it is unintentional bird and bat deaths caused by wind turbines. Solar PowerSome homeowners may be embracing solar panels on their properties, but the implementation of utility-scale solar power is much lower in profile. In the year leading up to October 2014, only 0.43% of the country’s energy was produced in utility-scale solar power plants. How would you prefer to have your power produced? Share your thoughts on these energy options in the comments.

6 Easy Tips to Lower Your Electric Bill

As a homeowner or renter, it is always a good idea to look for ways to cut bills. Not only will it save you money, but it will prevent the waste of power. Becoming energy efficient is a trend, so following these tips can help you cut your electric bill. 

Choke Your Chimney 

If you don't use your fireplace then why don't you seal your chimney? This way you will not be paying for heat or air conditioning to be wasted by going up into the sky. Plus, you will get an immediate payback from this investment. 

Put All Your Electronics On Stand By 

Sometimes your appliances use energy when they are not even in use. Make sure to get rid of these power-sucking vampires by ensuring all of your electronics are on stand by when not in use. Or better yet, just unplug them after you are done using them. 

Get New Light Bulbs 

This may be the easiest solution yet. Many energy suppliers offer energy efficient light bulbs that you can put in your house to save money and limit waste. This alternative electricity for your home is a great step towards making your home 'green'. Just make sure you get the soft white light bulbs as they look more natural.

Maintain Your Heating and Cooling System 

In theory, you should maintain your HVAC system twice a year. This way you can ensure it is clean and working efficiently. Also, during the inspection the power suppliers will be able to locate any leaks that could be running your bill sky high. If you are need of a new HVAC system, contact alternative electric companies in order to talk about different methods of being energy efficient. 

Use The Sun To Your Advantage 

Don't want to turn the heat on during that off-season cold day? Then open all your windows and blinds and let the sun shine in! The sun will warm up your home and it won't cost you a single penny! 

Check Your Electric Bills 

Check and compare your electric bill regularly. There is a possibility you are living in one of the nation's deregulated energy markets, which means that you can choose different energy suppliers if you are unhappy with your service. It never hurts to check!

Don't Let Your Energy Bill Sap all of YOUR Energy! Simple Solutions to Save Some Cash

What are the top three expenses in your home? If one of them is electricity, then you may be paying too much! The deregulation of electricity markets has caused prices for electricity and energy usage to rise in the last several years, which can lead to unnecessary spending on your part. The average energy bill per household is still approximately $107, which is a bit steep. So if you're looking for ways to save on your next energy bill, here are a few easy and convenient ways to keep that hard earned cash in your pocket.

Turn off the lights!

That's right, doing something as simple as turning off the lights when you're not in a room can save you money! Power companies may generate the electricity you use, but in the end, you're the one paying for it. If you don't need a light on in the house, then leave the light off! Using the sun coming into your house during the day also provides a more natural lighting and allows you to soak up a little bit of the vitamin D!

Keep the heat down!

If you get cold easily, make sure to throw on an extra pair of socks, because keeping your thermostat at a consistently low temperature can save you some cash! In fact, you can save an estimated 10% on your bills by using a programmable thermostat in your home. Don't let energy companies get the best of you! Besides, wouldn't you rather invest in some quality sweaters than another $50 on your heating bill?

Do you really need to blast the AC?

One of the largest uses of electricity is your AC unit. Annually, AC accounts for approximately 19% of residential electricity use, and that's just in the United States! Keeping your thermostat a little bit higher can save you a lot of money! In addition, by turning your AC off for a little while, you can let those cool summer breezes drift through your home. Fresh air never hurt anyone, especially not those energy suppliers.

The deregulation of electricity markets has provided opportunities for you to look into alternative electricity companies. But whatever provider you choose, you should always choose to save your money!

Does Your State Offer Tax Incentives for Solar Panel Installation?

Nationwide, the deregulation of electricity markets means that many consumers have a choice of providers for their heating and cooling needs. Although some states have not fully completed the deregulation process, many consumers stand to benefit from the ability to pick their natural gas and/or electricity providers. 

Interested homeowners and renters can also save money in a variety of ways. There are currently many tax incentives designed to make the installation of solar panels an attractive option to homeowners. Not only do solar panels have the potential to save money, many electricity companies will actually purchase excess energy generated by the panels and absorb it into the larger energy grid for redistribution to other homes.

Homeowners can save hundreds every year just by the installation and use of a thermometer that can be programmed to lower the temperature at night, for example, or to turn itself to a much lower setting when owners are at work or out of the home. Savings for larger homes that consume more electricity can add up: experts say that just a few degrees' difference can save homeowners hundreds of dollars every year.

The deregulation of electricity markets also means that many consumers have more "green" options for their natural gas and electricity providers. In some areas of the country, large turbines that harness the power of the wind are responsible for generating much of the electricity that consumers use to power their homes. As the cost of generating the electricity goes down, the consumers can expect to harness those savings as well.

Consumers report that deregulated energy markets deliver them more choices, but some states have not yet completed the deregulation process. Energy suppliers in those states do not have many competitors, if any, and some consumers express a desire for a wider range of options. Deregulated energy was designed to introduce competition between energy companies, with an goal of financial savings for homeowners.

With many power suppliers increasingly finding ways to harness low-cost, sustainable energy sources such as solar and wind power, consumers across the country are gaining the power to choose sustainable energy for themselves.

Leading Energy Conglomerate Urges for Alternative Energy Investment at Recent UN Meeting

The 70th United Nations General Assembly was held at the end of September in New York, United States. One of the main topics of conversation was the use and pursuit of alternative energy sources and the power companies that are working to achieve them. Tonye Cole, the executive director of the Sahara Group, was one of the leading advocates urging people to consider investing in affordable renewable energy companies, according to the Nigerian newspaper TheNationOnlineNG. 

The Sahara Group is one of the leading African energy, power, and infrastructure conglomerates on the continent. Cole believes with the right investments from governments and energy companies alike, vast improvements can be made that will improve socioeconomic growth in rural communities around the world by 2030. 

"Substantial investments are required to achieve affordable and sustainable energy in developing nations. Wind and solar energy are possible options that can be harnessed in rural communities where consumption is relatively low," Cole said. "With the right strategy and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders, we will be setting solid foundations for deploying alternative energy sources to transform lives and small businesses for disadvantaged communities across the globe." 

In 1995 it cost about 7.1 cents per kilowatt hour to deliver electricity to investor-owned utilities and generation accounted for nearly two-thirds of the overall price. Today, generating the electricity accounts for less than half the cost, according to the Edison Electric Institute. 

One of his calls to action was for more governments to form partnerships with private businesses in the pursuit of this goal. By working with power suppliers he believes they will be able to more effectively persuade the population at large of the value chain of the power sector to ensure support for policies as well as address any potential problems that arise. 

Sahara Group has been promoting energy companies' use of alternative sources for many years. They've even established competitions and initiatives that promote the research and development of the industry among students and professionals.

Alternative Power Companies Reaching Out to Rural Customers

Since the deregulation of electricity markets in the United States, consumers have had a wider choice of power suppliers, including alternative power companies that harness wind energy or solar energy to power their consumers' homes and businesses. Coupled with a decrease in the price of standard electricity production, many American homeowners are seeing reduced heating and cooling bills at home and their places of business.

Homeowners who install solar panels may feed excess energy back into the larger electricity grid and receive monthly or quarterly payments from their local electric companies. Many homeowners see solar panels as an investment that "pays for itself" over a few years of use, and some have even installed wind turbines on land that they own, citing a commitment to sustainable energy.

Alternative power companies have seen a marked increase in the last ten years: solar power is now more efficient and affordable, and many states offer rebates or tax incentives for homeowners who install high-performance solar panels. Wind turbines are being built across America with the intention of maximizing energy that is generated from sources that are both low-cost and ecologically friendly.

Power suppliers are also providing homeowners with tips to minimize home heating and cooling costs. The average electricity bill is about $100 every month, but homeowners who install thermostats to control their homes' temperatures may save as much as 10% on their heating and cooling bill every month. Thermostats that can be programmed to lower a home's temperature while homeowners are asleep or at work may save over $1000 every year.

In areas of the country with consistently high heating or cooling costs, alternative power companies offering discounted electric rates seem to be expanding their customer base. Many Americans are willing to consider wind or solar energy now that the prices for installation have dropped considerably and report a positive experience with contractors and installers. 

Reaching out to rural areas that may have previously been disconnected from the larger electric grid, upgrading small businesses to solar power, and offering incentives and rebates to homeowners are all helping alternative power companies participate in deregulated energy markets.

Is Your Refrigerator Green? Making Changes to Save on Energy Costs for the Home

Homeowners are always on the lookout for energy savings, and the good news is that recent technological developments are making energy conservation much more attainable. And with the average bill topping $100 every month, the quest for energy solutions can be an important one. 

That cost could drop to $90 monthly just by the installation of a thermostat that turns itself off and on in the homeowners' absence or regulates air temperature at night, when people are asleep. Keeping the house just a little bit cooler for eight hours a day during the winter months can add up to a savings of over $100 a year.

Solar panel systems are also becoming increasingly popular for homeowners who want to maximize their energy savings. There are tax breaks for commercial and home installation available in many states across the country. In fact, many homeowners report receiving monthly checks from electricity companies due to the fact that their solar systems generate more electricity than their home or business can use.

Smart appliances are also helping many Americans save big on energy costs. While the typical family spends about $20 monthly just to heat water for showers, dishes, and cooking, an insulated water heater can generate big savings.

Add in an eco-friendly shower head designed to save water and a washing machine that operates more efficiently, and the savings can mount rapidly. Even refrigerators are now designed to use one-quarter of the energy they did 50 years ago.

The idea of a $0 energy bill is very appealing to most home and business owners, and thanks to recent technological advances the cost of homeownership is becoming much more affordable. Although ecologically friendly appliances and solar panel systems require a financial investment, renewable energy can save thousands of dollars for a home in the long-term, maximizing energy savings and contributing to a healthier home.