ENERGY EFFICENCY
It could be conserving energy via replacement of traditional energy with solar, wind or hydro power with your local power company such as;
ConEd Solutions
Potomac's Pepco Green Energy Services
Montana's Green Power
Georgia's Green Power
Maine's Green Power Initiative
Nevada's Green Power
Organizations such as:
Alliance to Save Energy
American Council On Renewable Energy
Solar Electric Power Association
Union of Concerned Scientists - Buy Green Power Power
American Wind Association
Government green energy programs such as;
Australian Green Power Program
US EPA's Green Power Partnership Program
US Government's DOE Green Power Network.
Hong Kong's Green Power Program
Consumers and businesses turn to certifications by third parties to help determine the green power they might purchase or use. One group is the Green-e program. The Green-e Renewable Electricity Certification Program (non-profit Center for Resource Solutions). Green-e certifies renewable electricity products that meet the environmental and consumer protection standards. In each states where Green-e is active, they work with diverse stakeholders to help ensure consumer protection and environmental standards work.
Energy saving ideas can come from alternative energy sources such as south facing roof solar panels used to heat your water storage tank through flat or evacuated solar collector panels. The pumps used to flow the heat can also use a solar panel or it can be hooked up to traditional fuel sources. Another area for solar heat can be under floor radiant heating tubes. Since heat rises, locating solar generated heating tubes beneath your floor as a radiant heating system can be a possible option. Due to the design layout most home owners find that this type of heating is only feasible in new homes.
Heavy heat and cooling losses due to poor insulation can have damaging effects on your energy bill and usage. Energy Star Partner windows with proper installation by a qualified contractor can help control loss. The National Fenestration Rating Council helps provide independent ratings on energy efficient windows, glass doors and skylights. When used in conjunction with the US Government Energy Star program, a home owner can find capable products. Energy covering or shades can have a large effect on a homes demand for energy and ability to conserve energy. Many different type of shades allow for variable light and heat or cooling reducing such as honeycomb designs. Proper choice of low energy usage lights Finally, the insulation in the walls and ceilings must be properly installed and of the properly rated material. The US Federal Government's Energy Star Home Web Site is a great resource for those looking to conserve energy and lower bills (even through certain federal and state tax rebates).
