Let us first look into the history as it relates to Alternative Energy Sources.The ancient Romans had radiant heat in their bathhouses. That was more than two thousand years. We had Indian tribes living in caves 800-1000 years. They were oriented to the south. We could of nature passive solar design. 1839 Alexandre Edmond Becquerel discovered solar power. Geothermal energy in its natural form has been around for thousands of years. Old faithful is an example. There are 21 power plants at The Geysers, California and is the largest geothermal development in the world.
Let me say that of Alternative Energy is generally accepted that we talk about alternatives to fossil fuels. Solar, geothermal, wind, hydropower and qualify all. All of these have little to no impact on the environment.
The U.S. government pours billions in loans or grants for research by large corporations just to get them to file for bankruptcy after it. Just hand out the bonuses What chance does the little guy have a great idea? Unfortunately, it seems as if he. Not a "snowball chance" if he keeps it quiet and does it in his own garage
The only way I can qualify myself, I began installing solar in the early eighties. I have quite a lot of pool heating systems for hot water and electrical installation. I have a couple of radiant heat systems installed and although I do not claim to be a guru or know that I know a little.
I've watched a lot in almost thirty years, and all is not well. In the last few years I've seen these DIY solar panel kits. I even support one or two, but gained my consciousness out and now I'll say that. They are misleading at best. I will say that you can build a solar panel for around a hundred dollars, but I guarantee you, no power at home with him. Sure, there is a power light or two, but that's it. Plus they do not talk about the need for an inverter. Can you build an inverter for under a hundred? Absolutely not! The same goes for the homemade wind turbines.
The good news is that the cost of solar cells and components decreases. Power companies offer "net metering" programs. Net Metering is great. If your system has more power than you get credit for it. It offsets cost you during the not so sunny days. We still have the 30% federal tax credit, and you may be eligible for government incentives.
I see the future as bright because we have choices when it comes to the type of energy that we use. We can do smaller projects for home use. A drop flow with a flowing two feet at 2 miles per hour can generate electricity. You can make your own wind turbine to power a few lights or a laptop. As far as solar look for online companies, you can be a dealer is. Some require a single purchase and offer discount prices. If you visit my site please leave a comment so I know how I am doing. Good luck with any project that fight and you can can be the sun in your area and the wind at your back....
