Renewable Energy

Supporting the use of renewable energy at home is not as difficult as one may think; it may be as simple as using "passive solar" techniques to put the warming effect of the sunlight to work. Today there are many ways to use clean, renewable energy sources to power a home. Homeowners can install solar photovoltaic panels, solar water heaters, geothermal units and more! Homeowners can also purchase renewable energy or renewable energy credits and make a difference without having to invest in new equipment or make changes to the home.

Ground Source Heat Pump

A ground source heat pump, or geothermal heat pump, uses heat from the ground to heat the home and provide hot water. In the summer, the system runs in reverse to provide air conditioning.

Heating and Cooling

Heating and cooling represents up to 45 percent of a homeowner's energy expenses. Therefore, it is critical to not only reduce heating and cooling requirements as much as possible, but to seek opportunities to improve, install and maintain proper equipment, good insulation and air sealing. By making improvements in various areas, homeowners decrease energy use and reduce harmful emissions by as much as 20 to 50 percent.

Before installing a renewable energy system, take these measures first to minimize the amount of renewable energy that is required to offset energy use in the home and, therefore, the upfront costs.

Windows

Installing ENERGY STARŪ qualified windows can lower energy bills and save money over single-paned and new double-paned, clear-glass windows. While one may feel an increase in the overall comfort of their home, even the most energy efficient windows can result in energy loss. When choosing new windows, be mindful of appropriate sizes and types, proper installation and sealing.