How to Plan Alternative Energy Sources
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Some wind farms are capable of supply the energy needs of entire towns and cities.wind turbine image by MAXFX from Fotolia.com
Contact your local energy utility company or a professional energy auditor. They can provide insight into what type of alternative energy source would best suit your needs based on current electricity usage, location, availability and cost efficiency. This is essential to the planning process, as not all alternative energy sources are feasible everywhere. You wouldn't want to plan for a wind power installation and then find out your geographical region does not receive enough ongoing wind currents. - 2
Solar panels have few moving parts, making them less audibly intrusive than other energy sources.Solar image by Thomas Leiss from Fotolia.com
Communicate with those who will be affected by a switch to an alternate energy source, either positively or negatively. This should be done before choosing what type of alternative energy source to pursue. If a community will be affected, hold a town meeting to get the general opinion. People may feel strongly about the merits of one type of alternative energy source over another. They may have concerns that their property values will decrease with the introduction of a loud or visually unappealing facility like a wind turbine or hydroelectric dam. If it is a decision for a small business or company, hold an employee meeting to discuss potential plans. - 3
Noise and magnetic interference from wind turbines may affect both airborne and ground-dwelling creatures.wind turbine image by bright from Fotolia.com
Get an environmental impact study of the location. While most alternative energy sources have less impact than fossil fuel, there remain potential hazards and problems. For example, a wind turbine may affect the navigational capabilities of some birds or bats, causing them to fly into the blades, or the noise from the turbine could have an adverse effect on local wildlife populations. To avoid any such issues, have a professional prepare the environmental impact study. - 4
Switching from fossil fuels to a renewable energy source can pay for itself over time.Solar Panels image by alessbonaventura from Fotolia.com
Research different financial incentives by consulting with an accountant or contacting a representative of the U.S. Department of Energy. Depending on the type and scale of your alternate energy source project, you may be eligible for tax credits, grants, rebates, financial awards or low-interest loans, all of which can help lower the cost of the switch to an alternative energy source. - 5
Professional installation will ensure that your alternate energy source functions at peak efficiency.solar powered lighthouse image by berean from Fotolia.com
Search for the right company to facilitate your switch to an alternate energy source. Contact a representative from the U.S. Department of Energy, your local energy utility company or the Department of Environmental Protection in your state to find out what businesses or companies in your area are capable of carrying out your switch to an alternative energy source. You can also use an Internet search engine and enter terms that resemble the type of project for which you are interested, such as "Wind turbine installation in Maine" or "Solar power installation companies in Arizona."
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