Category: Energy

  • 10 Tips for Finding the Best Low-Cost Electricity Provider for Your Home

    10 Tips for Finding the Best Low-Cost Electricity Provider for Your Home

    In deregulated states, there are many electric providers to choose from. That can make finding the best plan for your home difficult.

    Luckily, there are several tips to help you find a low-cost electricity provider that fits your needs. Using these tips, you can save time and money while choosing an excellent electricity plan for your home.

    Know Your Needs

    You must first know your needs to find the best low-cost electricity provider for your home. According to research, people who identify their needs are more likely to get what they want and feel more stable.

    Needs can be anything from financial security to a stable relationship. Writing down a list of five to seven critical needs helps you narrow your search and make a more informed decision when shopping for electric rates.

    When looking for a plan, consider your needs and how long a provider will allow you to lock in a fixed rate to protect yourself from market fluctuations and rate hikes. You can also hire experts like a commercial energy broker to guide you in finding. You should also check to see if you can switch suppliers without incurring an early termination fee.

    Look for Discounts

    When shopping for your home’s best low-cost electricity provider, looking at all the offers and discounts is essential. These may include energy-efficient appliances, rebates, or time-of-use programs encouraging you to use less electricity during peak hours.

    During these times, REPs charge more since generating and distributing electricity that day costs more. By encouraging customers to reduce their usage during these periods, REPs can save money in the long run.

    In some areas, REPs offer discounts to help customers pay their electric bills, including those participating in state and federal assistance programs or receiving a fixed income. These discounts can save you hundreds of dollars a year.

    Compare Plans

    When shopping for a new electricity provider, it is essential to compare plans and prices. This can help you find a low-cost plan for your needs and budget.

    Electricity rate plans typically come in two types: variable and fixed. Variable rates change based on market prices, which can cause your monthly bill to fluctuate significantly.

    Many shoppers choose a fixed-rate plan to avoid these seasonal fluctuations and get a more consistent price. These plans usually last 6 to 12 months.

    Alternatively, some energy suppliers offer indexed plans, which shift costs based on changes in the energy market. These plans work well for people who follow market prices closely and like the option to switch energy suppliers frequently.

    Shop by Zip Code

    When shopping for your next electricity plan, you’ll want to compare offers by zip code. This will allow you to find a plan that fits your needs and has the lowest rate.

    Many retailers ask for your ZIP code because it’s an easy way to determine your address. They can use it to target you with sales ads or catalogs that might otherwise get tossed in the trash.

    But while it may be a significant business decision, revealing your zip code can come at a cost. It can lead to more junk mail and telemarketing calls. That’s why it’s essential to think twice about whether you need to provide your ZIP code in the first place.

    Ask Questions

    When choosing a low-cost electricity provider, ask plenty of questions. These will help you understand each company’s plans and features.

    For example, find out if the supplier can offer a price to compare alerts that tell you when the cost of energy changes in your area. Also, learn about each provider’s plan lengths and how they protect you from market fluctuations and rate hikes.

    In addition, ask about time-of-use programs that encourage you to consume less power during certain hours of the day. These can save you money because wholesale electricity prices are higher during peak hours. You can save up to 5% on your bill by using electricity during off-peak hours. This can be especially helpful in the summer when it is often hot, and you’re likely to turn on the air conditioning.

    Look for Independent Providers

    If you are looking for an electricity plan that will fit your unique electrical needs and budget, it is essential to look for independent providers. These companies can offer a variety of different services and can save you money on your electricity bill.

    The energy market in some areas is deregulated. Consumers can purchase electricity from a utility company at their default power rate or shop for a cheaper rate from retail energy suppliers (REPs).

    Once you’ve found a few potential options, looking at each plan’s plan’s features is essential. You might be most interested in a company that offers green or renewable energy sources, or you may want to choose a plan with a fixed-rate option. Be sure to check your Price to Compare, the number you see on your electric bill.

    Get a Free Quote

    A free quote is a great way to save money on energy bills. It lets you focus on finding your home’s best low-cost electricity provider.

    Electricity companies often offer incentives for switching to a new plan, such as a discount for updating your appliances or lower rates if you lower your usage during peak hours. Some companies also provide incentives for switching to renewable energy.

    To get a free quote, start by reviewing your current costs. Look at your “electric supply charges,” expressed in cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh).

    Compare Fees

    The best way to save on your electricity bill is to shop around. This is especially true if you’re looking to upgrade from your current provider to a more cost-effective one.

    You’ll need to research to find the right supplier for your home, but the results will be well worth the effort. Once you’ve researched, you can compare and contrast plans from different providers to see which will save you the most money.

    The valuable tool helps you compare electricity rates and packages from multiple providers in your area. This easy-to-use and free tool will save you time and money on your next electricity bill. The best part is that you can also track and compare your energy bills, making it easier to see if there are any opportunities to reduce your utility costs.

    Choose a Plan That Fits Your Needs

    The best low-cost electricity provider for you will be the one that works with your needs and delivers a simple, straightforward plan. To find the right strategy, you’ll want to know how much energy your home uses and what type of electricity or natural gas you use.

    You’ll need a current bill to determine your supply rate, shown in cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Have this handy to compare electric and natural gas suppliers’ prices.

    Some providers offer fixed-rate plans, which lock in a price and keep it for the length of the contract. These are great options to avoid rate hikes if market prices go up.

    Take Action

    Once you’ve decided to shop for a low-cost electricity provider, it is essential to take action. This can include calling your current provider to cancel service or visiting an energy advisor to discuss your options.

    Taking action also includes monitoring your new plan’s rates. If you are careful, your electric rate could stay the same during your contract period.

    An excellent way to avoid this is to sign up for price to compare alerts. This will let you know when a new rate will help you lock in a cheaper plan.

    It is also important to remember that electricity rates fluctuate monthly based on supply and demand. If you need to be made aware of this, you can get caught in the cycle of paying a higher electricity rate when your needs are lower.

  • 3 Ways To Get More Solar Incentives

    3 Ways To Get More Solar Incentives

    Recent statistics show a staggering population of individuals in Oregon opting for renewable sources of energy. Using solar power for lighting, heating and cooling and other uses is increasingly becoming common for business owners and homeowners. Although solar offers clean energy, it has many incentives and rebates designed to make it more financially attractive. If you’re considering making the switch to solar energy, you’ll want to take advantage of as many incentives in Oregon as possible to maximize your savings. Here are four effective strategies to help you get more incentives.

    1. Research Local and Federal Incentive Programs

    When it comes to solar incentives, knowledge is power. Thoroughly research the available Oregon solar incentives at both the local and federal levels. Oregon offers tax credits, rebates, and other financial incentives to encourage people to adopt solar power. Familiarizing yourself with these programs will enable you to identify which ones you qualify for.

    Visit the websites of the state’s agencies, as well as the U.S. Department of Energy’s Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE). These resources provide comprehensive information on available incentives in Oregon, eligibility requirements, and application processes. Also, reach out to local solar advocacy groups or consult with a reputable solar installer who can guide you through the incentive landscape and help you navigate the complexities of the various programs.

    Washington State solar incentives may vary depending on your location and the type of solar installation you’re planning. Some incentives may be specific to residential properties, while others may be geared towards commercial or industrial applications. Keeping yourself informed will ensure you get any available opportunities and maximize your solar savings.

    1. Leverage Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs)

    Oregon offers Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) as a means of promoting the generation of solar power. These credits can be traded or sold on the open market. For solar system owners, SRECs provide an additional source of revenue that can help offset the initial cost of installation and ongoing maintenance.

    To take full advantage of SRECs, familiarize yourself with the requirements and regulations governing their issuance and trading in Oregon. In some regions, SREC markets operate through state-run programs or third-party vendors, while in others, they may be traded on specialized exchanges. Knowing how the SREC market functions in your area will enable you to develop a strategy to maximize the value of your solar generation and optimize your earnings.

    The value of SRECs can fluctuate based on factors such as market demand, renewable energy goals, and regulatory changes. As such, it’s essential to stay informed about developments in the market and adjust your approach accordingly. Luckily, a knowledgeable solar provider in Oregon can help you to navigate these complexities.

    1. Explore Financing Options and Incentive Bundles

    The upfront cost of installing a solar energy system in Oregon can be a barrier for some businesses and homeowners. Fortunately, there are several financing options available to make solar more accessible and affordable. In addition to traditional loans and leases, many Oregon solar providers offer innovative financing solutions such as power purchase agreements (PPAs) and solar leases, which allow customers to enjoy the benefits of solar energy with little to no money down.

    When evaluating financing options, inquire about any incentive bundles or special promotions that may be available. Some solar installers partner with financial institutions or government agencies to offer exclusive incentives, such as discounted interest rates, cash rebates, or extended warranty coverage.

    The Bottom Line

    Maximizing solar incentives in Oregon requires research, strategic planning, and proactive engagement with incentive programs and financing options. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to reduce your energy bills or a business seeking to enhance your sustainability efforts, incentives can help you achieve your renewable energy goals.

  • What Types of Green Cars Exist?

    What Types of Green Cars Exist?

    Protecting the environment is everyone’s responsibility. We share the planet, so must share its care. Recycling and using organic products that maintain sustainability are part of the equation. Transportation also plays a major role.

    Standard cars burn fossil fuel and put contaminants into the air. Neither is good for the environment. New technology has provided cars with alternative engines that burn less or no fuel and significantly reduce emissions, in some cases to zero. Driving one of these green cars is a way to be a part of the solution. It’s good to know what kind of green cars exist to make an informed decision about which to buy.

    Hybrid Vehicles

    The most common of these cars are the hybrid vehicles. They are readily available and you can learn more at GreenCars. Hybrids combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor. The electric motor powers the vehicle during normal driving operations and the standard gas engine kicks in at high speeds or when more power is needed. When the standard engine is running it powers the battery and under braking, the battery draws power and helps slow the car. Hybrids are can potentially be more expensive than standard cars but the savings in fuel makes up for that. These cars only put out harmful emissions when using the gas engine. The total output is greatly reduced.

    Plug-In Hybrids

    Another type of hybrid, the plug-in, has a battery that can be recharged at a charging station. These cars get even better mileage than standard hybrids but you do need to have a place to charge them. This can be a problem for people who live in areas that don’t have charging stations and rent their homes or apartments and thus, can’t install a charging station at home.

    Electric Vehicles

    A type of car that is becoming more common is the electric vehicle. These cars run solely on an electric motor, use no fossil fuel, and give off no tailpipe emissions. They provide an innovative and excellent solution to environmental concerns. However, they do have a limited range and you must have access to charging stations to keep them powered. An electrician can install a Level 2 charger in your garage to help expedite charging time.

    Conventional Green Cars

    For those who prefer a vehicle powered by a standard internal combustion engine, there are models that are greener than the typical car. Some of these run on biofuels which means no consumption of fossil fuels. Through the use of catalytic converters and similar devices, these engines have a reduced output of gases that harm the environment. When looking for a new vehicle, ask about alternative fuel cars.

    Choosing a Green Car

    Fighting against global warming and protecting the environment is a job that everyone should be a part of. When considering buying a new car, think about the green options. Information on them is readily available. Choose the one that suits your needs and then drive around confident that you are doing your part.

  • Understanding the Impact of Energy-Efficient Roofing on Residential Properties

    Understanding the Impact of Energy-Efficient Roofing on Residential Properties

    Key Takeaways

    • Discover the cost-saving benefits and comfort provided by energy-efficient roofing materials.
    • Learn about innovations like cool roofs and their role in reducing a home’s carbon footprint.
    • Explore financial incentives and the increased market value associated with energy-efficient upgrades.
    • Understand how proper installation and maintenance are pivotal to maximizing energy efficiency in roofing.

    Introduction to Energy-Efficient Roofing

    The shift towards energy-efficient building practices is increasingly becoming a priority in residential construction. For homeowners, an efficient roof can mean more than just a shelter—it’s a critical investment for energy savings, improved comfort, and reduced environmental impact. Progressive roofing technologies bolster a home’s defense against the elements and enhance its thermal performance. The concept of a home’s ‘energy footprint’ is significantly influenced by the choice of residential roofing materials and the methods employed during installation. The function of a roof extends beyond the simplistic role of protection—it’s an integral part of the building’s envelope, a contributor to its aesthetic appeal, and a key player in the energy efficiency drama. With complex heat flow dynamics, the roofing material’s ability to resist heat transfer — both into and out of the home — is essential for maintaining a comfortable interior without undue stress on heating and cooling systems.

    Types of Energy-Efficient Roofing Materials

    The varied landscape of roofing materials offers homeowners a multitude of options when it comes to energy efficiency. From asphalt shingles that have been a historical favorite to modern metal roofs that reflect the sun’s rays, the material choices are more varied and technologically advanced than ever. However, not all materials are equal in their ability to conserve energy. Innovations in roofing technologies have given rise to materials specifically designed to keep homes more relaxed in the summer and warmer in the winter, thereby reducing the need for mechanical cooling and heating. One standout example is the market for cool roofs, which are engineered to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard roofing materials. A cool roof can significantly lower surface temperatures by up to 50°F, thus decreasing the heat transferred into the building.

    Many modern materials come with an added layer of insulation built-in, contributing to their energy-saving prowess. A discerning homeowner can also look for roofing materials rated by the Energy Star program, which certifies products that meet specific energy performance criteria. The options range from reflective metal roofs and recycled shingle materials to slate or terra cotta tiles, offering varying energy efficiency and environmental benefits.

    The Financial Benefits of Energy-Efficient Roofing

    While the environmental advantages of energy-efficient roofing are clear, the financial benefits are equally compelling. Investing in an energy-efficient roof can immediately impact a homeowner’s utility bills. With improved thermal control, the reliance on air conditioning during hot spells and heating during cold snaps diminishes, leading to considerable energy savings. Furthermore, lucrative government incentives are available for those who upgrade to more efficient roofing systems. Energy-efficient roofs can qualify for federal tax credits, and many local governments offer additional rebates and incentives. This makes the upfront investment more palatable and the long-term rewards of reduced utility costs more attractive.

    Beyond the direct energy cost savings, energy-efficient roofs contribute to the property’s overall value. This is increasingly relevant in the current real estate market, where buyers are looking for homes with sustainable features. This forward-thinking investment in energy efficiency can result in a higher resale value and a smaller carbon footprint, making the property more attractive to environmentally-conscious buyers.

    Professional Roof Inspections and Maintenance

    A regular roof inspection and maintenance schedule is essential to maintain the highest energy efficiency. Recognized professionals in roofing can offer valuable insights into the condition of a roof and suggest ways to enhance its performance. By proactively identifying areas where energy is being lost, such as damaged shingles, inadequate insulation, or blocked ventilation, one can improve the roof’s ability to conserve energy.

    A well-maintained roof is less likely to succumb to the wear-and-tear that can compromise its energy efficiency. Regular check-ups can lead to minor repairs, preventing more significant, expensive problems. An ounce of prevention in roof maintenance is worth a pound of cure when it comes to keeping energy costs in check and extending the longevity of the roofing materials.

    Choosing the Right Contractor for Energy-Efficient Roofing

    The key to adequately constructing an energy-efficient roof is hiring the correct contractor. Homeowners should look for experts with credentials and track records in the newest roofing technology. An accomplished contractor who can show off their portfolio of energy-saving projects might be a great advantage. They can advise what materials and design options are best for a given home’s requirements, considering the local climate and the existing architecture. Homeowners want to seek contractors with a proven track record of producing excellent work and staying abreast of the most recent developments in energy-efficient roofing. Building a solid working rapport with such a contractor guarantees a positive installation experience and continuing assistance with roof maintenance and energy efficiency improvement throughout the roof’s lifespan.

  • Designing a Remote Power Supply System for Industrial Applications

    If you’re thinking about adding a small power supply to your industrial or commercial application, there are several considerations that you should make. These include the power source and the power output. Aside from that, you’ll also have to decide what type of remote power supply system best suits your situation.

    Bentek Systems

    Bentek Systems is a Canadian-based manufacturer of industrial power products and services. They have been in business since 1988, and their facility is in Calgary, Alberta. Their product offerings include over-molded cable assemblies, solar panels, solar regulators, AC inverter systems, and complete remote power supply. These systems are designed and engineered to meet all your power needs. In addition to these standard offerings, they provide turnkey privately labeled OEM solar products.

    Bentek Systems also offers custom engineering designs to cater to the needs of any organization. As part of their service offering, they offer installation services for remote power systems. The company also provides battery backup systems to augment its grid power offerings. Bentek Systems is the one-stop shop for all your power requirements, from the best power supplies to the latest in battery technology.

    Although the company’s core expertise is in Power and control, they also offer a wide array of electrical and electronic products to a broad spectrum of industries. Known for its quality in electric utility substations, the company also manufactures sensors, indicators, and mechanical power transmission products.

    DuraComm Power Supplies

    For its part, DuraComm has produced a range of power supplies that serve clients in various industries. From simple desktop units to wind power generators, they have something to suit your needs. They are known for their ultra-reliable AC to DC switch-mode power supplies and battery management systems. Designed in their Kansas City facility, the company also boasts a large and diverse workforce willing to help you get the job done.

    Several of their offerings are aimed at the communications industry. It includes the RLP, as mentioned earlier, Series, and the DC-RMCU1, as mentioned earlier, which have much to offer. The company has been designing and manufacturing products in its Kansas City-based labs for nearly 23 years. With that much expertise, it’s no wonder they’ve been able to develop innovative products for critical infrastructure.

    Although they’re not the first company in the power supply business, they certainly have been in it for the long haul. With their ability to design and build custom solutions, the company’s product portfolio can be tailored to meet your needs.

    AEG Power Solutions

    AEG Power Solutions is a leading global supplier of power electronic systems, providing innovative solutions for various industries. With over 60 years of experience in the industry, the company offers a comprehensive portfolio of solutions for industrial, telecom, oil and gas, and renewable energy applications.

    AEG’s DC power supply systems offer reliable, high-quality Power in demanding environments. They feature an efficient, heavy-duty design with proven microprocessor-controlled thyristor technology. Integrated energy storage allows the reinjection of excess energy during high-demand periods, improving grid stability.

    AEG PS also provides a full suite of solutions for railway infrastructure. Whether it’s critical loads related to the rail infrastructure or a high-speed train, AEG can answer to guarantee safety and maximum uptime.

    AEG Power Solutions has extensive expertise in integrating DC and AC power technologies and offers a comprehensive product portfolio, including industrial UPS and solar inverters. The company also provides preventive maintenance and remote monitoring, which gives users 24×7 access to experts.

    Solar Power Australia

    Solar Power Australia (Solar Power) is an Australian-owned company that specializes in designing large photovoltaic systems for industrial applications. The company’s services include professional engineering and customized documentation, ensuring each product meets the highest industry standards.

    In recent years, many public schools and museums have installed solar panels on their roofs. The State Parliament and Adelaide Airport also utilized solar PV.

    Western Power is now trialing a hybrid power system for its electricity network. The trial has generated a lot of interest from customers keen to learn about stand-alone systems.

    As an off-grid solar power solution, the AMP Solar Generator provides quiet, reliable, and clean Power. It can also provide Power to communities during disasters. The generator is configurable to meet site requirements. Combined with a deep cycle battery bank, it offers an energy self-sufficiency option.

    With the development of concentrating solar thermal technologies, electricity generation is increasing. As such, the Clean Energy Initiative’s Solar Flagships Program has committed $1.5 billion to fund the construction of up to four large-scale solar power plants in Australia.

  • Importance of Saving Electric Energy

    Currently the use of electricity is essential to carry out a large part of our activities, thanks to this type of energy we have a better quality of life.

    With just pressing buttons we get light, heat, cold, image or sound. Its use is essential and we hardly stop to think about its importance and the benefits of using it efficiently.

    Saving electrical energy is a fundamental element for the use of energy resources; saving is equivalent to reducing fuel consumption in the generation of electricity, also avoiding the emission of polluting gases into the atmosphere.

    Our country has a large number of energy sources. Most of the electricity generation is carried out through oil, coal and natural gas, significantly impacting the environment by relying on non-renewable resources, such as fossil fuels. When using them, a large amount of greenhouse gases is emitted into the atmosphere, which cause global warming of the earth, whose effects are manifesting and are devastating.

    How to save energy from my workplace?

    Saving and using electricity efficiently as well as caring for the environment, are not synonymous with sacrificing or reducing our level of well-being or the degree of satisfaction of our daily needs, on the contrary, a change in habits and attitudes can favor a greater efficiency in the use of electricity, the rational use of energy resources, the protection of the family economy and the preservation of our natural environment.

    The Jalisco Ministry of Education presents tips that are easy to apply in schools and offices, which allow children to be trained in the education of saving electricity and modify bad habits in offices, reducing the environmental impact generated from our workplace.

    Below, you will find a list of tips that you can apply in your school or office.

    Turn off electrical equipment

    Establish as a rule that computers, printers, fans, water heater / cooler and even coffee makers are turned off and if possible disconnected at the end of the workday.

    Clean air conditioning filters frequently

    Permanently establish maintenance and cleaning program for electrical equipment for example, lamps and air conditioners.

    Turn off equipment when not in use

    Computers and other equipment (photocopiers, printers and lighting system) are usually on all day and even at night. Turn them off at the end of the workday.

    Turn off computer monitors

    You can save a lot of electrical energy by turning off the monitor it uses a high consumption of electricity.

    Take advantage of solar energy

    Allow the sun to filter into the offices by raising curtains and or blinds.

    Do not allow energy to be wasted through windows

    If the office has air conditioning make sure the windows are closed tightly.

    Turn off the lights

    Turn off lights whenever offices are unoccupied.

    Reminder to turn off equipment

    Posting reminders helps to acquire this important habit. Make new reminders every so often  to get the user’s attention again.

    Turn on only what is necessary

    If you work at night, illuminate only the areas you need and turn off equipment you are not using.

    Use technology that saves electricity

    A company should always choose a server with the highest energy efficiency available.

    Optimize apps

    Inefficient software, even software that generates little business value, will need to be refined  optimized or discontinued.

    Computer center maintenance

    Data center managers must improve the efficiency of their facilities to ensure that all equipment is operating optimally and reduce cooling requirements.

    Presence detectors

    Use presence sensors. They turn off the lamps automatically when no one is around.

    Power-on verification

    Asking the last people to leave the office to turn off the lights or give notice to turn off.

    Avoid electricity consumption in standby

    . Disconnect the load, removing the plug from the contact.

    . Use a manual switch or a multi-contact from which the supply current can be cut off.

    . Use a more sophisticated element, such as regulators, to completely turn off the equipment without DE configuring its functions.

  • 5 Signs Your Home Is Using Too Much Energy

    5 Signs Your Home Is Using Too Much Energy

    Have you ever experienced walking out to your mailbox, opening up your electricity bill and saying to yourself “OK, how did it get to be this high?” If so, you’re certainly not alone. Lots of people have times when they feel like they are doing all that they can to keep their energy costs down and yet, it only seems to go up in the process.

    That’s why we wanted to take out a moment to provide you with a few signs of how you can know if your home is using too much energy, contact Corporate Electric Company LLC to learn more about how to become energy efficient. If you pay attention to these five things, we’re pretty confident that by the time you get your next energy bill, you’ll start to see a noticeable difference—for the better.

    Your energy audit is telling you so. A simple thing that all homeowners should to do to see if they are wasting energy anywhere in their home is to have an energy audit conducted. Although you can hire a professional to come in a thoroughly inspect your home, there are also websites that will walk you through how to do it yourself. One site that we recommend is Energy.gov. (Just put “DIY energy audits” in the search field.)

    You leave your doors and windows open. If you’re someone who sometimes opens up your windows to let in a cool breeze but you forget to shut them when you turn your HVAC unit on, or you have a habit of talking to a neighbor while standing in your front or back doorway, you are wasting energy. Remember that air is going to go out of whatever crack, crevice or hole there is and so you want to make sure that you do whatever you can to keep them shut.

    You keep things plugged in (unnecessarily so). Did you know that there are some household items that drain a lot of your electricity simply by you keeping them plugged in when you’re not using them? Reportedly, plasma televisions waste around 1,400 kilowatts each year, game consoles waste about 230 kilowatts, and even DVD players can waste close to 78—all because they are plugged in when they’re not in use. It would a shame to spend money on something just because it’s connected to an outlet even when you don’t need it. Take the extra step and unplug it.

    You don’t have Energy Star appliances. The great thing about Energy Star appliances is that they’re designed to save energy by as much as 30-40 percent each year. So, if you don’t own an Energy Star refrigerator, dishwasher or a service technician just told you that you need to explore some R-22 replacement options for your air conditioner, you might want to consider swapping out what you currently have and getting an Energy star item instead.

    You don’t have a low-flow showerhead and toilet. Although most of this article addresses signs that you’re wasting electricity, water use within the home also requires energy. By adding a low-flow showerhead and toilet, you also can save about 30 percent in annual energy costs. You can get both things for around $250-300 and it’s well worth the investment, so consider putting in on your to-do list and getting them soon.

  • 5 Cities that are Mostly Run on Solar Power

    5 Cities that are Mostly Run on Solar Power

    Overview 

    Over the years people all over the world have had to deal with the hefty recurrent bills that come as a result of power consumption by means of electricity. This trend has from time to time puzzled the minds of many and as a result led to the discovery of solar powerful energy systems by engineers from various nations across the world. The following cities across the world have greatly reaped the benefits of this wonderful discovery.

    Freiburg City in Germany

    This world class city is one of the sunniest cities in Germany with more than 1800-hours of sunshine each year and a radiation intensity of 1117 kilowatts per square-meter annually. The city of Freiburg is not only renowned for its success in renewable energy, but for the citizen’s high standards of environmental awareness and strategic political interventions that have immensely contributed to the city’s economic development hence elevating it to become a solar capital as well. Solar panels in this city are evidently found almost on the roofs of all buildings from schools to private houses, City hall, churches and the list goes on. Major advantages that the city has benefitted from the use of solar energy involve economic growth and climate protection.

    The City of Lancaster in the US

    Lancaster city is ranked a fast growing solar city in California. The city has made drastic and fruitful developments in the conservation of energy; hence these developments have made it possible to significantly reduce the level of carbon emissions, pollution and the increasing budget constraints by means of renewable energy production.

    The city has gone a long way in benefiting by these solar energy installations as business people, homeowners, schools, and stadiums among others have significantly improved and remained much healthier. The companies and government too have had their fair share in these remarkable developments due to the installation of large scale commercial solar power systems that have not only enabled the them to meet their sustainability but also financial goals.

    San Diego

    San Diego a famous City for its magnificent coastline and sunny weather is ranked as the second largest solar city in the United States. The city of San Diego is known for its push in renewable energy initiatives. The city makes one of the sunniest cities in the United States leading the way to solar energy. San Diego has a rank for having 107-megawatts of solar energy installed. This has gone a long way in earning it a solar energy capital title. Businesses, private homes, companies and schools have been on the list of beneficiaries of this great and clean energy.

    Los Angeles

    The city has a name for its clean streets, wonderful landscaping and it magnificent structures all over. The city has the largest school districts installed with clean power solar systems totaling to about 4.5MW across 17 school sites. The installation of solar energy systems in the City of Los Angeles has kept it ahead of things creating showing great improvements from to the private sector, government and many other institutions. School districts in Los Angeles have seen installations of solar shade structures that offset between 25% to 100% electricity usage in the schools. Los Angeles is the leading solar energy producer in the United States.

    New York City

    New York City, diverse and famous for its mega buildings and skyscrapers. People who live in New York and those who come as tourists cannot afford not to love Big Apple all the way to Niagara Falls. New York has it all and even more, solar power systems have made the New Yorkers have another reason for a radiant smile. New York City having gone solar made it possible to reduce the dependence on fossil fuels and save lots of money which can be put to better use. Homeowners, business community, schools and buildings across the wonderful City of New York know what it means to have clean solar energy. It saves not just your electricity bills but gives the people a clean environment.

    Summary

    Cities that run on solar energy reap a lot from it and save a lot thereby creating good avenues for economic growth and healthy living for its people.

  • 5 ways to save energy to make you money

    5 ways to save energy to make you money

    People these days are suffering from the latest round of gas and electricity price increases, especially at the outset of winter. In these difficult economic times, wages and salaries are nowhere near keeping up with fuel rises and more and more people are entering what is known as ‘fuel poverty’.

    However, there are a few inexpensive things you can do to reduce those horrendously expensive fuel bills. The following are 5 ways to save energy to make you money.

    1. Tools and gadgets to help save money
    • Plug in thermostat – if your heating system is not thermostatically controlled, you will continue to use fuel after the desired heat is reached. A plug in thermostat can be used to set the temperature and will switch off once this is attained.
    • Electric blanket – these can be used to warm beds in cold bedrooms. Once in bed and warm, you can choose to switch it off or keep it running in ‘sleep’ mode.
    • Radiator shelves – a shelf above a radiator bounces the heat forward into the room rather than going upwards like most hot air.
    • A radiator key – used to ‘bleed’ radiators. Bleeding releases gases which cause the top of the radiator to be cold and allows the radiator to heat up properly, increasing energy efficiency.
    • Radiator reflector panels – these can be made of aluminium foil stretched over a piece of cardboard or can be bought already made.
    • Sealant – this can be used to fill in small gaps and holes which cause draughts such as window frames and skirting boards. Draught seals and strips are also effective.
    • Internal letterbox flap – an inexpensive way to stop draughts from your letterbox.
    • Thick and heavy curtains – these can eliminate heat loss through windows, especially if closed when it gets dark.
    1. TVs, computers, laptops etc.

    All electrical appliances use energy when not in use, if not switched off. TVs are often put into standby mode when not in use and computers, laptops and printers are often left on all day. Most laptops etc have a ‘hibernate’ facility which will switch the appliance off after a certain time of inactivity. When buying a new TV, consider choosing a medium sized  LCD model rather than a large plasma. Generally, the smaller the TV, the cheaper it is to run. There are TVs with optimised energy saving features on the market (look for the Trust label).

    1. Home Insulation

    This will protect your home against the cold in winter and heat in summer. It can also provide a certain amount of sound-proofing, useful in high traffic areas or airport flight-paths. New homes are now built with good insulation, but older properties can be a real problem to insulate. There are five ways that heat can escape from your home:

    • Conduction
    • Radiation
    • Convection
    • Air movement
    • Evaporation

    You must aim to eliminate heat escaping through walls, roof, floors, windows and doors. You may be able to qualify for a grant towards the cost of home insulation.

    1. Think about switching to cheaper energy suppliers

    You can easily access details about energy suppliers and their tariff charges via the internet. The government are encouraging gas and electricity suppliers to inform their customers about their lowest tariff. Many people are being overcharged for their energy because they have been put on an expensive tariff. It is fairly easy to switch suppliers nowadays, and you could save £££s.

    1. A few energy saving tips you can do yourself
    • Try turning down your thermostat by one degree. If you do not notice much difference, turn it down again. Each degree can save you money. It is more cost efficient to keep the heating on low all day during really cold weather. Turning it on and off during the day costs more.
    • Wear layers of clothes, eg vest, t-shirt, sweater, thermal socks to keep you warm. Put an extra blanket on the bed.
    • When cooking, double up with bakery, while the oven is on, eg savoury and sweet pies while cooking the Sunday lunch. Leave the cooker door open to allow the heat to circulate round the kitchen when finished.
    • Put dirty crockery and cutlery straight into the dishwasher rather than pre-washing in hot water.
    • Keep freezers full as this will eliminate gaps which require more electricity use.
    • Do not use large cooker rings for small pans.