EcoLiving Ideas

By Amelia Apfel on Jan 14, 2010

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In the middle of winter, home energy use ranks high on the list of concerns for most homeowners, regardless of whether that energy comes from coal, natural gas, or alternative sources. While you may be more focused on lowering your monthly bill than worrying about how your electricity is made, you should consider the long-term impact of your energy choices on the planet. Over 50 percent of energy in the U.S. is currently generated by coal, which releases mercury, sulfur dioxide and nitrous oxide into the atmosphere when burned. Coal mining is dangerous and usually degrades the environment around the sites. Coal, oil and natural gas are non-renewable resources that are heavily loaded with carbon. Sometimes it is nearly impossible to replace these resources with alternative energy resources.

Currently, about one tenth of the energy providers around the country offer consumers the option of purchasing renewable energy. Often, you can choose your energy source from options such as wind or solar.

While switching over entirely is the best choice, it may not be economically feasible at first. In addition to purchasing renewable energy directly from your provider, you can also purchase renewable energy credits (RECs). Green-e is a respected certification program for renewable energy credits, and allows consumers to search for available renewable energy by state.

Reducing your overall energy use is a good way to stretch a tight budget to include renewables. A home energy audit can pinpoint trouble areas, such as poor insulation or an inefficient refrigerator. Sealing leaks around doors and windows, and installing storm windows in colder weather, can make a huge difference in energy consumption.
Finally, you can incorporate renewable energy directly by setting up your own solar panels and perhaps consider a geothermal system for your home. Although these options can be a significant investment, there are bare-bones kits available, especially solar panel kits that can be installed more cheaply.