Renewable Energy Resources versus Fossil Fuels

Author: Bryan Wong

In modern western world the demand for energy has increased dramatically in the past century and it will grow even further and harder in the near future than ever before. The need for energy rises with upcoming markets that also need more energy. Energy is needed for cars, buses, and other means of transportation, but also to run our appliances and provides us light. Energy is also important for our safety. At night or in the dark a lot can be stolen without proper lightning. Energy is therefore needed for our development and safety.

The way we use energy today comes from knowledge that has it's foundations in the past century and before. Great men like Newton and Philips have set the path for us today to make proper use of energy. The sources which we use for our energy demand are known as non-renewable energy resources. These sources will be discussed here in the article.

Definition of Non-Renewable Energy Resources

The name really explains it very well. Non-renewable energy resources are natural resources that cannot be recycled or re-grown. These natural resources are fossil fuels like coal, petroleum, and natural gas. It also includes mined resources such as the elements used in the production of electricity (uranium and plutonium, for instance). These resources replenish itself in a quicker rate.

Fossil fuels are very versatile. One of their functions is to generate electricity. In order to generate electricity, fossil fuels are burned through the process of combustion. The energy produced from the combustion process is used to power a turbine. The turbine is responsible for the conversion of energy produced from combusted fossil fuels into electricity.

Coal

Coal is one the most used fossil fuels. It is consider too be the most important energy source to produce electricity. The U.S. produces 50% of its energy supply through the combustion of coal. The coal itself is a brownish-black sedimentary rock which contains carbon and other assorted elements. It is extracted from the ground through underground mining or open-pit mining.

Natural Gas

Natural gas is also used to produce electricity. The electricity is produced through steam turbines and gas turbines. Because the gas contains methane the combustion emits less harmful gasses that have a negative effect on global warming. Thus natural gasses are better for the environment compared to petroleum and coal.
There is also another use for it and that is as fuel for cars. It is much cheaper that gasoline and produces less harmful gasses. The disadvantage of running your car on natural gas is that you need more fuel compared to gasoline and the car needs more maintenance. In countries like Argentina, Brazil, Pakistan, Italy, The Netherlands and India it is used as a fuel for cars.

Crude oil

This fuel is the most talk about for the past year(s). The prices for crude oil have gone through the roof and will be rising even more. The demand is increasing while there is less crude oil available. The term black gold is now more applicable than ever before.

The oil itself is very think in consistency and has a dark brown or greenish color characteristic. It is a complex mixture of different hydrocarbons.
Crude oil or petroleum has various uses. It can be used as fuel or cars and different industrial machines. It is also used as a raw material for products like plastics, solvents, fertilizers and pesticides.

Although the need for crude oil is high and the demand is rising the available crude oil is decreasing. That leaves us no other option than to look for alternatives.
Non-renewable energy plays a very important role in our daily lives. Non-renewable energy will be needed today and in the future. Because this energy source cannot be recycled or re-grown the reserves are limited. The consequences of the shortages of fossil fuels are experienced today and tomorrow. We will need to use these fossil fuels wisely and will need to shift our focus to other renewable energy source. These are the sources that we need to focus on today and years to come.

Solar thermal applications are the most widely used category of solar energy technology. These technologies use heat from the sun for water and space heating, ventilSolar Energy a Reliable and Practical Source

Author: Energy Matters

These days we are experiencing a growing awareness to the fact that our energy resources, as they have been used in the last few years, are probably not going to last for long and that the energy markets are exposed to more and more rapid changes, some due to political reasons and others because of the changing climate of the planet.
Solar energy is a renewable free source of energy which is sustainable as it is not inexhaustible, unlike fossil fuels which are finite. It is also a non-polluting source of energy and it does not emit any greenhouse gases when producing electricity. The solar electricity that is produced can supplement your entire or partial energy consumption. Using solar energy means reducing your energy bills and saving money. Also having solar PV panels adds value to your home, they are low maintenance and unobtrusive. Germany is the global leader for solar-generated electricity.
Why choose solar energy?
Australia is the luckiest country in the world. Our geography gives us the opportunity to use the most natural, sustainable and clean energy in our homes – the energy from the sun.
action, and many other applications.
Solar energy is not a new concept, it has been properly introduced to the global public many years ago and successfully implemented in different parts of the world in different ways, so we can say that solar energy is known to most people, but it is still not as popular as it should be, as a cheap replacement for other sources of energy. The energy of the sun, from its direct sun rays that are projected directly at the earth or by giant wind turbines are free fro us to use, to manipulate for our needs, and this can be done by almost anyone in any place, it just needs to technology and the know-how.

Geothermal Energy Facts: Geothermal Energy Pros and Cons

Author: Chris Marshall

There is much talk about climate change, and the search for viable renewable energy sources. Everyone knows about the likes of solar, wind and wave power. But fewer have heard of geothermal, or know how does geothermal energy work. So here are some geothermal energy facts, which may help you understand the benefits and restrictions of geothermal energy.
How Does Geothermal Energy Work, The principle of this form of energy is quite simple. The ground beneath our feet gets heated by the sun on a daily basis. However, it is also a great insulator, and so retains a vast amount of this heat as stored energy. The idea is that pipes are run through a fairly large area of ground several feet down, where the temperature is more constant. Then, water is passed through the pipes, heating it.The primary use for this type of energy is heating, as a regulated temperature can be achieved constantly with little variation dependent on time of year. It can also be used over larger areas to provide hot water, but this needs more time in the ground so more pipework and a greater area.
Geothermal Energy Pros and Cons. The advantages of geothermal energy are that once the initial investment is paid for, and energy is relatively free. And it's clean. There is little or no reliance on power from gas or electricity to provide heat, which is one of the main uses of energy in the home. The main need for electricity to run this system is for pumps to pump the water through the system. The advantages of geothermal energy are that it is cheap, once the ground works are done, and incredibly green energy. There are no emissions from the provision of heat for the home and water.
The disadvantages of geothermal energy are the initial expense and the amount of land required. It can cost thousands to dig out the land and lay the pipes. This is one of the geothermal energy problems and why it is not widely used. Another of the disadvantages about geothermal energy is that it requires a fair sized piece of land to implement. People with a fair-sized garden will be ok, but it is not possible to install in the yard of a Victorian terrace.One possibility that some people use is a new system where pilings are drilled into the ground, with the pipe work in the foundations. Because pilings go much deeper into the ground, they gain the distance that is required underground to heat the water. This is great for new build homes, but obviously cannot be achieved in older homes.
How Many People Use Geothermal Energy Because of the initial costs and need for space, geothermal energy is not widely used. It is becoming more popular in single builds however, and could provide an efficient method for providing heat for buildings such as apartments and new build housing estates through district heating systems or individual heating through pipes in the pilings. Because it is so expensive, it is unlikely that house building companies will install the systems in homes in the near future. But hopefully it could become the way we provide all our heat energy needs in the future.

Solar Energy for Homes - Things to Consider

Author: Adam Sorenson

Using solar power for your home is a very good idea, as you are not only doing a favor for yourself but doing a bigger favor by protecting the earth from harmful toxic gases. To produce electricity, many fossil fuels have to be burned, when burned they release harmful gases to the atmosphere which are badly affecting earth. Our world is suffering due to global warming. At the same time we all can't do away with electricity as it is a necessity.

The best alternative energy source is the use of solar energy for homes. Let me ask you a question here, do you know which solar power system is the best for your home? I'm quite aware of the fact that solar power is not a new technology as it has been around for many years now. But when starting any project, it is better to know everything there is to know. You must try and learn everything you can about solar power.

There are some important considerations to take before using solar energy for homes: When you want to use solar energy for homes, you must know your surroundings. The place where you live, the weather, is your house surrounded by tall trees, does it often rain? You must know the answers of these questions before you start your DIY project. If the weather in your area is mostly sunny, then it is a good idea to use solar energy for homes. The basic idea is to get as much as the sun rays hitting your solar panels of your solar power system. Without sunlight how can the solar system produce electricity? If there are tall trees near your house, you may need to cut them off which can be a hard thing to do as local authorities may not permit you to cut them down. If your area experiences lot of rain and your house is surrounded by hills which block the sun rays, then it might not be a wise idea to get a solar power system. Secondly, you must know where to install your solar panels.

Usually many homes install it on the roof, but that is not necessary. You can install your solar panels in a place where you get lots of sunlight throughout the day. So, check out your home's surroundings and select a spot where the solar panels can get lot of sunlight. The next important thing to consider is can you install the DIY solar kit in your house. If you don't have much knowledge on electronics, then you better take the help of an electrician who can do the job for you. You get instruction manuals with the DIY kits, but sometimes it can be little difficult for you to connect solar power into the electricity grid of your home. I hope my tips come useful when you select your solar power kit. So, get a solar power DIY kit now and enjoy endless electric supply that is clean and green.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diy-articles/solar-energy-for-homes-things-to-consider-2858028.html

Buying Solar Panel Kits?

Author: Adam Sorenson

If you have been toying with the idea of installing your own solar panels at home, getting a solar energy kit is a fantastic idea. However, you have to know that it is not as easy as buying a jigsaw puzzle and solving it. There's definitely a need for some careful planning because solar panel kits are too complicated and pricey to just experiment with.If you have had an experience putting up solar systems, using a solar kit will probably not be taxing. You may just need some help from the manufacturer to answer some technical queries or ask about specific parts which you may not be familiar with. However, if this is the first time you are laying eyes on solar panel kits, it is best that you go to a supplier who is willing to give you all the technical support you need—both for planning and installation. They must be willing to assist you not only via the internet but also over the phone. To play safe, you should even go for a supplier which offers in-person support in case the need arises. The supplier should not have any problem helping you get the right size and configuration for your home system as long as you give them your present as well as projected energy needs. This is very crucial because you will be wasting money if you get more or less than what is necessary. Aside from these, you will also need a professional to help you analyze the location and sun orientation of your house. Trees and building can affect the efficiency of the solar panels and they must be taken into consideration. The average temperature outside all year round would also need to be considered.Your solar panel kits supplier can also recommend you the best backup storage for your family. You see, even if you are going to remain tied to the grid, you should have some batteries to store energy in case of power outages. These batteries are available in a wide variety. Some of them last longer than the others. Of course, they are costlier too. Anyway, your supplier can give you a hand when deciding which batteries to go for. When looking for solar panel kits, you have to bear in mind that cheaper is not always better. Checkout for manufacturers who are known for delivering high-quality products and learn about their prices. As cheaper isn't always better, neither is the most expensive always the best. These kits come in various voltage and amperage combinations and they are major factors in determining the price. Make sure you consider them carefully.You will have to spend time looking for the right supplier who can give you all the above-mentioned needs. Although it may take a little while, your efforts would surely pay off in the long run. Do not be afraid to ask questions because it will save you future trouble. The best solar panel kits come from the best suppliers. When you find one, you'll surely have a fun time installing your home solar energy system.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diy-articles/buying-solar-panel-kits-2858029.html

Easy to Implement Kitchen Renovation Ideas

Author: John Anthony Vanderkolk

Is it time for you to renovate your kitchen? Are you tired of looking at the same dingy floor and the cabinets with mismatched hardware? Remodeling the kitchen is popular, and there are many options and kitchen renovation ideas that you can employ that do not take much time or effort.Consider what type of kitchen you might want to have before you start calling around to contractors though. Do you want to have an ultra modern kitchen, or would you prefer a quaint country style kitchen. You should also consider the amount of space that you have. Knowing what you want ahead of time will make choosing the various pieces of the kitchen as well as the contractor much easier.To give your kitchen a modern feel, you might want to replace your appliances with stainless steel versions. You can even have stainless steel counter tops. They are easy to clean, sleek, and they look great. For a modern kitchen, you might want to have a flat screen TV mounted to the wall. You can watch your favorite cooking shows while you are preparing a meal, or watch the news while you have your coffee in the morning.You will be able to find many different types of countertops, cabinets, hardware, and fixtures for your kitchen. If you like the cabinets you have and only want to replace other elements of your kitchen, you might still want to replace the hardware. Replacing the handles and knobs on cabinets and drawers is easy, something that you will be able to do on your own in less than an hour. Other easy kitchen renovation ideas are to strip the cabinets and the drawers and then paint them a different color. This is something that most people will be able to do in an afternoon.You may find that you would rather hire a kitchen designer who will be able to come to your home and help you with the kitchen renovation ideas. He or she will have knowledge of the various types of flooring and cabinets that will look great in your house. You can listen to what the designer has to say, but make sure that you provide some ideas of your own so that the kitchen has some of your unique style. A new kitchen will make you feel great, and it will give your home a brand new feeling.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/kitchens-articles/easy-to-implement-kitchen-renovation-ideas-2811431.html

About the AuthorJohn Anthony Vanderkolk is the lead kitchen designer and VP Sales for Kitchen Designers Plus, a multiple award winning kitchen designer, specializing in creating luxurious yet affordable high-end kitchen design. Kitchen Designers Plus is located in Toronto, Ontario.

Mico Hydro Systems

Micro Hydro Systems: Harness the Power of a Nearby Stream for Your Home's Electrical Needs

Author: Alan Jacobson

If there is a running stream or brook on your property or nearby, you may be able to harness its power and use it to replace most of your electric needs. This can be an efficient and reliable way to heat your house and power everything in it that is electric. In fact, you may even be able to make your electric meter spin backwards and get a check from the electric company, as will be outlined later. All in all, micro hydro is a renewable or “green” form of energy that will reduce your carbon footprint and your electric and home heating bills at the same time.



Some people worry about whether their small stream can possibly generate enough electricity to make a difference. Actually, it takes very little water movement, or a very small waterfall to generate significant power. In fact, a flow of even three gallons per minute, or a waterfall two to three feet high, may be enough to make it worthwhile. Another concern, particularly among those who have a lot of land, is how far from the micro hydro set up the resulting energy can be delivered. The answer is that the house can be a mile or even more away. Also, sometimes people will pay a small price, or perhaps even share the resulting electricity, with a neighbor if the neighbor allows the system to be located on their property because there is a better potential site there.



One of the environmental advantages that micro hydro shares with many other renewables is that there is little or no environmental impact. The water runs through the system with very little interruption in flow (in fact, the less the water slows down, the more optimal your system). Therefore, there is very little impact on the surrounding ecology. That said, in many states you may need a permit, or to have someone come out and inspect your system, to ensure that the environment is not being affected.



There is no way to estimate cost, or predict the time it will take for the system to pay for itself, given that each waterway is different. The costs could be as low as $1-2,000 or as high as $20,000, depending on your electricity requirements, waterway, and location. Maintenance is relatively inexpensive, with the need to occasionally change hydro turbines as the most common need.



One of the exciting things about micro hydro, and many other forms of renewable energy, is the potential to go “on grid”. Basically what this means is that your electricity produced by hydro will be linked in with the electric supply you get from your electric company. When you produce more electricity than you need, many power companies will buy back the extra. Your meter will actually spin backwards! This type of set-up is also useful if you are concerned about meeting all of your home’s needs through the micro hydro set up. It allows you to supplement your hydro power with electricity from the conventional power grid.



There are some disadvantages to micro hydro, many of which you’ve probably already considered. First, the size and flow rate of your stream or brook may restrict you from expanding your system if your electric needs increase. In addition, any seasonal fluctuation in flow, as is often seen in mountain areas for example, may mean decreased power during some times (for example, you may have less water flow in the summer, at the very time you want to plug in three air conditioners).



Micro hydro power is reliable, dependable, and effective. The electric supply that is generated is pure and high quality, and maintenance costs are minimal. Most systems pay for themselves in a relatively short period of time, and you can also feel good about reducing your electric and perhaps oil or gas use. As with any construction, please consult with someone local to you with knowledge of your area. Only a qualified and experienced person can give you an accurate estimate of your costs and savings, plus any possible surprises you might hit along the way.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/micro-hydro-systems-harness-the-power-of-a-nearby-stream-for-your-homes-electrical-needs-292447.html

Magnetic Power Generator

Magnetic Power Generator

Author: Max Power

The magnetic power generator is a free energy generator which uses magnetic force and magnets to induce a perpetual motion. Here, the generator runs by itself continually without stopping and creates completely free electrical energy that can be utilized by an individual for various purposes. The perpetual motion in the generator refers to a device which runs indefinitely, producing huge amounts of energy. The magnetic power generator adopts repulsive and attractive power of natural magnets in order to induce the motion into flywheel. This flywheel is in turn attached to a small turbine through a gear assembly, and when the wheel runs it drives the turbine, thus, producing electricity. Another feature of the Magnetic power generator is its very easy and simple-to-build functionality. Any individual having basic mechanical knowledge can construct a DIY magnetic power generator by referring to various blueprints and guides accessible on the internet. Otherwise, he can purchase one of the magnetic generators available in the market at an affordable price. In addition, these power supplements save about 20% to 50% on energy bills. Once when these generators are assembled correctly, they can run for long periods of time producing free electricity. The power generator can efficiently be used as a power supplement in houses without any cost. Further, the generator doesn’t produce any harmful by-products like gas and it is eco friendly too. So it is best for each and every one to opt for this alternate source of electrical energy which is completely safe to operate and is econmical.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diy-articles/magnetic-power-generator-1476478.html

How Home Solar Power Systems work

How Home Solar Power Systems work

Author: Tim Systems

Home solar panel is the best way to reduce your electricity bills. This is because they use green energy collected naturally from the sun and harnessed onto a solar system that converts the energy into electric energy and it stores it in a battery for use in the house. It is a onetime investment and it saves you electricity costs for a lifetime. There are small solar panels that are ideal for home installation. These come with the solar panels that are fixed on your roof and the wire extension that is used to collect the converted electric energy and directs it to the battery. Most of the countries that are promoting usage of green energy insist on using alternative sources of energy that reduce the rate of environmental degrading while the power supply levels are maintained or increased.There are the advanced solar panels for your home that come with wind generators. In addition, these ways of tapping green energy do not necessarily need the sun to produce electric energy. Instead, they use the wind energy that drives the wings of the fan that is installed on the roof of your house and when the wings turn, the turbines of the generator are triggered into action generating instant energy.Other complex solar panels for your home come with photo voltaic cells that are ideal in storage as well as production of direct current that is distributed throughout your home. The solar cells are installed at the point of conversion of the solar energy and the wires from the panel harness the energy into the cells that in turn are connected to the main power system of the house for power distribution. The solar technicians of the outlet from which you buy the home solar power systems mainly do installation. A solar power home does not worry when they use the electric energy for all the appliances in the house. It is an alternative to the high-energy costs while at the same time it acts as a backup for the regular electricity connection. Most of the people who install the solar panels for your home connect the system as the main power system and connect the regular electricity supply as the subsidiary. This means that you only get to pay the bill when the solar power system is not functioning which is very rarely.The bigger the solar panels, the more the solar energy that is collected, and the bigger the size of the photovoltaic cell so that all the energy are stored. When you get the home solar power and the wind generator, you are assured of having power both during summer and during winter seasons. This gets rid of the worry of footing the heating costs during winter. For the people who are cost conscious, they could get a simple and small solar power system that works as efficiently as the big solar power system and the only difference is the amount of energy it collects and stores. However, even the small solar system produces enough energy to serve a homestead.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diy-articles/how-home-solar-power-systems-work-2727329.html

About the Author It is true that solar energy is the best possible source of energy right now,especially since the sun is always there. The only limitation is the technological prowess of man to properly harness this energy and convert it to usable electricity.Visit smallsolarpanelsblog.com and learn more about home solar panel

DIY Home Energy Saver - Home Energy Saving Tips

DIY Home Energy Saver - Home Energy Saving Tips

Author: Setyo Wicaksono

Whether you admit it or not, with all the expenses you have in mind, no matter how big your salary is, you still want to save some extra bucks in one way or another. And the best place to start saving is right at your very home; on your power bills. Yes, your power bills. All your appliances and electric gadget consume electricity and pile up to your ever-growing electric bills month after month contribute to your burden as a homeowner (or a tenant on a rented place). This calls for complete information on how to start lowering your home energy consumption while not depriving yourself with all the technology you have bought.
Click here to download 63 Pages Ebook for free-include DIY Home Energy Saver - Home Energy Saving Tips. · Let us start with how well-sealed your home is…Ensuring that your house is totally sealed keeps your heating devices maximize its use, at the same time, save some energy. If you live on the southern part of the country, a perfectly sealed home keeps the temperature of your house maintained. This will also maximize the power of your air conditioning system.To do this, keep your window, sills, door frames, and joints tight. Apply sealant on these places so that the air from the outside does not mix with the air on the inside. Whether you want to heat up or cool down your home, properly sealed house will keep your heater or air conditioning system in its best functions. You surely don't want the warm or cold air go in and out of your home. This will consume more energy than it should be. Heat loss can also occur on windows. To prevent this, use plastic window cover. Plastics are best material to insulate and keep the heat of your home inside.
A free flowing heating vents and air grills will maximize the flow of heat in your home. Keep interference such as rugs, furniture and drapes away from them. On movable sections of windows and doors, you may want to use weatherstripping. Weatherstrips are rubber materials that seal the movable object from its non-movable object. This will go on garage doors, exterior doors, operable windows, and door of attic. · Then, proceed on the blinds and drapes…If you want to keep your home warm during cold weather, choose drapes that would cover the windows entirely. If it is sunny, open the drapes let the sun's heat insulate your home. In this way, you save a lot of money on heating system. · The thermostat…
You can lower down your thermostat while you are away and while you are asleep. A centigrade lower equals to 2% saved energy. Again, you may want to turn the heating down if you are not around.
Click here to download 63 Pages Ebook for free-include DIY Home Energy Saver - Home Energy Saving Tips.
· Then the laundry and dish washing…You should know this: You can save as much as 85 to 90% when you turn the dial of your laundry to cold. Heating the water will consume a lot of energy. Also, you can save a lot when you wash full load. One last thing: a front loading washing machine saves you 50% on water and 50% on energy. Dishwashers consume the same energy regardless of wash loads. Therefore, it would be much energy efficient if you load your dishwasher full. · Go to the basement…Most heat is lost when your basement has leaks and drafts on the walls. Make sure you seal these places so that you can conserve a lot of heat and energy. You may also add insulation in your basement to ensure that the heat is conserved. One good way to know if your basement has leaks or draft is to look for spider webs. When there are web, there are leaks. · Time to go to the garage…Do not turn on the heating system at your garage full time. Whether you stay at your garage often or not, you can always heat it up minutes before you get in there. You can save a lot of energy if you do this. Remember: use your garage heating system only if necessary. · And finally… you electronic devices.Whether it is your tv, stereo, lights, or any other devices that use electricity, make sure that you turn them off when not in use.
Click here to download 63 Pages Ebook for free-include DIY Home Energy Saver - Home Energy Saving Tips.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diy-articles/diy-home-energy-saver-home-energy-saving-tips-2727690.html

About the Author If you truly want to improve energy efficiency for your home, visit http://blog.smartandtrusted.com/home-energy.

High Efficiency Solar Panel - The Basics

High Efficiency Solar Panel - The Basics

Author: Ethan Emer

The use of high efficiency solar panel can be very beneficial especially if you are trying to save some cash. As you already know, electric consumption takes a huge part of our monthly bills and this can be very frustrating. But if you are able to produce your own electricity with the help of this equipment, then you will no longer have to worry about your electric bills.However, you also need to know that the use of high efficiency solar panel is not only beneficial for the environment. This can also be very advantageous to the environment since it does not require the use of any exhaustible resources. This way, you are at least helping in conserving our environment.But even if these advantages are already very obvious, there are still a lot of people who are not convinced that the use of a high efficiency solar panel is a good thing. This is because they have the misconception that this is a very complicated and troublesome task. They also thought that the materials are very rare and expensive.However, if you will just learn more about it, you should know that this is actually not as difficult as you might have thought it to be. As a matter of fact, the only thing that you will really have to worry about is the planning stage. If you are going to build your own equipment, you have to be certain that everything is planned. This is necessary if you really want the equipment to work according to your expectations.But if you think that you really cannot pull this task off, then it can be a great idea if you are going to get a guide. This guide contains detailed instructions and some instructional videos as to how you can complete the task.When it comes to the materials, there is also no need for you to be worried because they are everywhere. You just need to be certain that they are really durable, strong, and of good quality.And if you want your high efficiency solar panel to last a long time, it is necessary that you can maintain it. This is necessary because some parts of the motors and the cells are very sensitive.With the help of a high efficiency solar panel, you can really help in saving the planet so you have to make sure that you will remember all of these tips.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diy-articles/high-efficiency-solar-panel-the-basics-2729995.html

About the AuthorTired of high electric bills? Discover how thousands of families are using homemade wind power systems to power their homes! Also, read to find out even more on build your own solar panel kits.

Wind Power Turbines Used With Batteries

Author: Ed Eubanks

With rising energy costs and growing environmental concerns, more people want to know their options for alternative energy. For many people in the right areas a wind energy turbine may be a good resource. This article will focus on wind power turbines and there use with battery banks.Everyone would love to be capable of producing their own energy, and even creating excess to sell back to the utility. For those with deep enough pockets, and the right location, grid tie systems can become reality.The drawback of grid tie systems is the expense of the equipment, engineering, and professional installation costs, as well as the red tape involved with utility company compliance. These constraints put this type system out of reach for most people.A lower cost alternative is a standalone system with a battery bank, and removing something from the grid. This can be accomplished for under $500. The most basic system consists of a wind energy turbine, a charge controller, a 12volt deep cycle battery, a dump load, and a 12 volt appliance or light.If the wind energy turbine is a DC generator it can be run directly to the charge controller. If it's a permanent magnet alternator, it must be run through a bridge rectifier to convert the energy to DC first. The wind power turbines energy is used to charge the battery through the charge controller. The charge controller protects the battery from being over charged by diverting the energy to a dump load when the battery has become fully charged. The wind energy turbine must be under load at all times. This protects it from over spinning and damage from high voltage. The charge controller diverts the excess energy to a dump load that converts the excess power into heat.The dump load can be a coiled resistor, an electric iron, or a hot water heating element.The lowest cost device to run off 12 volt wind power turbines is lights. You can start with a few and add more until you reach what your wind resource will handle. This is a good way to determine the capability of your resource. 12 volt compact fluorescent lights are a good light to use because of the low wattage they use to produce the same amount of lumens as a higher wattage incandescent light. The only drawback to them is the mercury they contain. If they break they can contaminate the area they were used in. Also they need to be disposed of properly at the end of their life cycle. LED lights may be the best low wattage light source. They are more environmentally friendly and have a longer life span. The color spectrum they produce isn't as natural, but strides are being made in that area.As you can see from this article, wind power turbines and batteries, may be the easiest, lowest cost entry point, for people with wind resource to gain control over a portion of their energy needs.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diy-articles/wind-power-turbines-used-with-batteries-2732472.html

About the AuthorEd Eubanks is a DIY green power enthusiast on a mission to bring power generation to a more personal level. He has a strong Mechanical-Electrical background from working 28 years in the US steel industry. His mission is to promote personal power generation to the masses. Residential wind generators are a good entry point for people to start generating a portion of their energy needs.

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Solar Heating: Let the Sun Shine in and Help With Your Heating Bills! (Ezine Ready)

Solar Heating: Let the Sun Shine in and Help With Your Heating Bills! (Ezine Ready)

Build A Solar Panel (Ezine Ready)

Build A Solar Panel (Ezine Ready)