Exploring Renewable Energy: A Guide for Homeowners

Introduction

It is becoming more and more important to reduce how much carbon emissions we put into the atmosphere. Worldwide, there is an urgent need to combat climate change. Therefore, renewable energy source have gained a lot of attention.

Homeowners, now more than ever, have the opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable future! We all can help by adopting more sustainable energy solutions. It doesn’t matter what your reasons are, it is time to start understanding what this movement in energy production is all about.

In this blog post, we will dive into the different types of renewable energy. Additionally, we will explore how you can harness them in a residential applications.
So, let’s embark on a journey into the world of clean and sustainable power!

Solar Renewable Power: Harnessing the Sun’s Energy

Solar power is one of the most popular alternative energy sources for homeowners.
It uses photovoltaic (PV) panels to turn sunlight into electricity.

Some benefits of installing solar panels on your roof or in your yard include:

• You can generate you own clean energy, reducing your reliance on the grid.
• You save by lowering your electricity bills.
• You can potentially even sell excess power back to the grid.

The PV panels are commonly installed on your roof, or any space on your property that has a lot of sunshine. It is important to note that any shadows that will fall on the panels will reduce the generation capacity. This means you need to make sure you choose a location that is clear of trees and other tall objects that could block the sunlight.

Some other factors to consider are that the panels should face the sun and be angled to get the most sunlight possible.

There are a few ways to mount your solar panels. Traditionally, Northern hemisphere installations would face True South, whereas Southern hemisphere installations would face True North. These installations usually generate at peak capacity in the middle of the day, when the sun is at it’s highest. The down side is that it takes longer to generate peak performance and production drops of more sharply in the evening.
Additionally, if you do not have a roof top facing in these directions, a East-West facing solar array can be installed. This method splits the array in an East and West facing arrays. This means that your peak power production start sooner and lasts longer due to the panels facing the direction the sun comes up and sets. The problem with this installation is that you usually need more panels to cover your peak loads.

No matter what your need, most solar energy companies can assist you in finding the best solar solutions for your home.

To find out more check out: How Does Solar Energy Work?

Wind Renewable Energy: Power from the Breezes

Wind energy is another promising option for homeowners interested in renewable energy. The wind turbines capture the kinetic energy of the wind and convert it into electricity.

Large-scale wind farming may not be feasible for homeowners. Thus smaller wind turbines will more commonly be installed on your property to generate power. By taking advantage from the power of wind, you can reduce your reliance on traditional energy sources. This way you will be contributing to a greener environment.

This energy source type requires a certain level of wind to keep the turbines moving. That means, you need to be very sure that you have enough wind in your area. There is a lot of progress being made in turbines and some very interesting designs are pushing the wind generating boundaries.

Traditionally wind turbines have been very noise but a lot of innovation is happening in this regard. These days, this is not a major concern anymore but you need to keep this in mind when choosing what turbine to install. You don’t want to go through all the trouble of installing it, to have your neighbors file a complaint.

There may also be a need to check your local bylaws and planning permissions needed to use wind electricity generation. Some turbines will even require structural engineering signoff due to the height of their masts.

Wind Turbines can also complement an existing solar array by generating power when the sun goes down. This makes it ideal for charging battery banks in winter weather.

With all these things to consider, it is still worth considering. If mounted on a suitable location, the wind turbine will generate electricity around the clock. This also makes it a great option if you want to go off grid.

Geothermal Energy: Tapping into Earth’s Heat

Geothermal energy systems make use of the Earth’s natural heat to provide heating, cooling, and hot water for your home.
This renewable energy source relies on the difference in temperatures on top of the earth and below it. In winter months heat is trapped in the ground and this heat is pulled into your home by geothermal heat pumps. Inversely, the reverse is done in warmer months, where there temperature below ground is usually cooler.

This makes Geothermal energy a reliable and renewable resource that can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and energy expenses.

Hydropower: Renewable Power from Flowing Water

While large-scale hydropower plants may not be practical for homeowners but micro-hydropower systems are a great choice for properties with a suitable water source.

a Micro-hydropower system commonly uses difference in elevations on your property, where you have enough water to keep the turbines flowing.
a Water collection point sends water through a pipe that goes into a hydro system. This system then has nozzles that create a high powered jet of water that points at a turbine. Once the water starts flowing into the unit the turbine starts spinning and generates electricity.
Suitable properties usually have a stream, creek or dam with sufficient water inflow for the system harness. Once the water exists the turbine, the system usually re-introduces the water to the downstream location of the water source. This way reducing the impact it has on the over all water flow of the area.

The benefit of these systems, with a suitable water source, will run continuously for 24 hours and 7 days a week. Thus, making it a really great way of generating electricity. Especially, if you have a suitable location and water source.

By harnessing hydropower, homeowners can enjoy a constant and reliable source of green energy.

For more information: Wikipeadia – Micro hydro

Biomass Energy

Biomass energy utilizes organic matter, such as wood pellets, agricultural waste, or dedicated energy crops, to produce heat or electricity. Homeowners can install biomass boilers or stoves to burn organic materials. This releases energy in the form of heat.

This energy source focusses on excess organic matter and preventing it from going to landfills. Wood pellets are generally made from wood shavings or chips. Suitable agricultural waste products make use of discarded agricultural byproducts that you can use as fuel.
Additionally, Biomass crops are a low-carbon energy source that is often referred to as energy crops. These could include wheat, corn and soybean crops or byproducts from these crops. Although they still release emmissions, they burn much cleaner than traditional fossil fuels.

The heat can then warm your home or provide hot water. Biomass energy offers a renewable alternative to fossil fuels, but it’s important to ensure a sustainable supply of biomass and consider the emissions associated with combustion.

Conclusion on Renewable Energy

Embracing renewable energy sources can make a big difference. Solar power, wind energy, geothermal energy, and hydropower provides homeowners with the opportunities. Including to reduce their carbon footprint, lower energy bills, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Getting off the grid and adopting photovoltaic systems allow you to generate electricity from the sun. While wind turbines harness the power of breezes. Geothermal energy taps into the Earth’s heat. Lastly hydropower utilizes flowing water to generate electricity.

Therefore, by exploring and utilizing these renewable resources, you can become a proactive participant in the alternative energy movement. More importantly, this way you can contribute to a greener planet.
So, consult with solar energy companies and explore the options available to you.
Taking a step towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle.

Learn more:

Ecowatch.com – Renewable Energy – For current news and events in the renewable energy space.