We often complain about our high electricity bills, but they’re easier to reduce than you think. The more electricity we use, the more we have to pay for it. In the digital age when practically all our devices need electricity to function, this can become a problem. So, how do we get out of this cycle? The answer is simple: renewable energy.
Renewable energy, also often called clean energy, is the energy that comes from natural resources and is easily replenished. There are different types of renewable energy, with solar and wind power being the most common. Other alternative sources of renewable energy include hydroelectric, tidal, geothermal, and biomass energy.
If you’re looking for a way to help the environment by powering your house with renewable energy, here are a few ways you can do so.
Solar Panels
Solar panels used to be considered unconventional for home use, but now they’re becoming one of the fastest-growing energy sources across the country. It’s highly likely for us to see the solar industry peak from this year to 2023. As we continue to spend more time at home, our electricity bills also continue to rise. If you live in an area that gets a lot of sunlight, consider investing in solar panels for your home. They can help reduce your energy use by converting sunlight into electricity, unlike traditional electricity which is sourced from fossil fuels.
Small Wind Turbines
When you think of wind turbines, you might think of the big ones you see on wind farms. Wind can be a great asset, as they’re more stable compared to solar power.
If you have the budget and the space to have one, consider installing a small wind turbine that can help convert wind into electricity. Before making that decision, make sure to check your local laws and zoning regulations. This is because some areas might now allow wind turbines in residential areas. A few other things to consider is that, if you prioritize aesthetics in your home, wind turbines aren’t the most attractive option, and they can get quite noisy too.
Solar Ovens
Conventional ovens use up a lot of electricity. A regular 3000-watt oven could cost you $0.36 an hour, which is fine if you only cook for yourself or if you don’t cook that often. If you cook for an entire household regularly, however, the expenses can add up to your electricity bill. If you’re looking to save on money and energy when you cook, solar ovens are the way to go.
Solar ovens can reach up to around 180 degrees Celsius, which is especially good for smaller tasks such as boiling water or heating yesterday’s leftovers. While you can buy solar ovens online, but if you like to do a bit of handiwork you can even make your own using materials you can find at home.
It’s also important to remember that food takes longer to cook in solar ovens and that it may not be the most suitable option for certain foods.
Avoid the Dryer
Dryers can help make your laundry time more efficient, but they can also heat up your home, especially in the summer. This can end up raising your electric bills. Fortunately, there’s a way you can save on energy. On hot months, plant a clothesline in your backyard where you can hang your clothes after getting them out of the washer. You’ll save on energy by using your drier less and not having to use an air conditioner or fan to cool down your home after using your drier.
Solar Batteries
We mentioned earlier how wind energy can generally be more stable than solar energy. While this is true, there are ways you can store solar energy for future use. Solar electricity usually goes back to the grid if unused, but with some solar batteries, you can access this unused electricity even if the sun isn’t out. Aside from storing excess solar electricity, they can also serve as a short-term alternative for backup power in the event of a power outage.
Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
On average, the appliances you use at home can account for 20% of your electric bill. If your appliances are due for a change, consider replacing them with energy-efficient appliances. Energy Star-certified appliances are your best bet to reduce your electric bill by using up to 50% less energy compared to their regular counterparts.
Seal Windows and Air Leaks
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to cut down on cooling and heating costs, proper sealing and insulation is important. Drafts can cause a loss of proper heating and cooling, making your appliances work double-time to make up for it. Reduce air leakage and get proper ventilation to avoid a higher electric bill.
Making the transition to renewable energy to power our homes can be an intimidating process. But as we continue to make advances in technology, going green and using renewable energy will eventually become easier and more affordable. With the ecological crisis plaguing our planet, using renewable energy is a step in the right direction to protect our planet for future generations.
Meta title: Clean Energy: Renewable Ways to Power Your Home
Meta desc: No one likes to see a high electric bill. Fortunately, there are ways to bring your electric bill down while saving the environment at the same time. Make the transition to clean and renewable energy to save the environment as well as your wallet.
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