Which Renewable Energy Source is Right for Your Home?

Image link

Using a renewable energy source for your home is an excellent way to be greener. It can reduce your carbon footprint and perhaps save you money by reducing your energy bills. The question is, which energy source is best for you? Every home and individual is better suited to different types of green energy. For example, your land needs specific conditions if you want to use hydropower. Some energy sources might not be affordable for you, while others might be impractical. If you’re building a new home or trying to make your existing one greener, consider which of these energy sources might be right for you.

Geothermal

Geothermal energy uses natural heat from the ground to turn it into energy for your home. It can be used to heat or cool your home, or to produce electricity. It’s almost entirely emission free. It also has the smallest carbon footprint of any of the primary energy sources. When considering the initial cost of installing a system, you have to keep in mind that it can be expensive. However, the lifetime savings of having a geothermal system can be huge. You can read more about the costs at http://theearthproject.com/10-geothermal-energy-pros-cons/. It might be possible for some people to access a grant or other form of financial assistance to make installation more affordable.

Solar

Solar energy is probably the renewable energy source people are most familiar with. Most people have seen solar panels on the roof of a home or elsewhere. You can use solar thermal energy to heat a hot water tank, or solar power could provide you with electricity. Although still not cheap, it’s by far one of the most affordable renewable energy systems for your home. You also might be able to get a grant or loan for it. To benefit from solar energy, you don’t have to live somewhere extremely hot and sunny. However, it helps to be able to give the panels access to direct sunlight.

Wind

Wind turbines are perhaps one of the most controversial types of renewable energy. Many people think they’re ugly, say they’re noisy or even suggest they don’t produce much power. However, many others are fans and say we should have more of them. You will usually see wind turbines offshore or in large fields. However, you could use one for your home. If you have some land, you could find a place to put one. It’s also possible to mount one on a house, although some experts say you shouldn’t. Find out more about wind turnines at http://energy.gov/eere/wind/how-do-wind-turbines-work.

Hydropower

Hydropower isn’t an option for everyone, but it is a possibility for some. To harness it, you need a river or other moving water source on your land. If it’s something you can consider, you also need to factor in the price. It could be a very expensive venture, costing you many thousands to install a hydro system.
When deciding between renewable energy sources, you need to consider money and practicality. Consider the pros and cons to match your home and budget to the right energy source.