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1-The Potential of Your Homestead |
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Alternative Energy & Non-Electric Systems
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Natural and free energy already on your site in the form of sunlight, wind, or falling water can be converted to electricity.
Ask yourself these questions to determine if your site is capable of supporting or utilizing a renewable energy system:
- Is my roof oriented to take advantage of solar energy?
- What obstructions prevent sunshine from reaching my roof-mounted array of solar modules? (In some situations, removing shade from your roof could increase the energy consumption of your home.)
- Is there enough cleared area on my property to use a pole-mounted array?
- Does your home need a new roof?
- Are there any local or state restrictions that may prevent or hinder me from freely using renewable energy? (state solar easement laws, etc.)
- Do I have a creek or stream nearby? (hydro-electricity)
- Does the wind blow at an average of 10-12 M.P.H.? (wind power)
- Is my utility company receptive to renewable energy? (Does it have restrictions on the use of renewable energy if you choose to be on the grid with your own backup power?)
With accurate load calculations and today's technology, owning and operating your own "Power Company" can be a joy and a rewarding experience. As with the big utility companies, you must determine the demand for electricity, but in this case the demand begins and ends with you. So the real question is, how much power are you expecting to demand from your own power company, (which could more appropriately be called an alternative energy system [AE System]) and how can you generate this power in a cost-effective manner?
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