Energy

Renewable energy is still in its infant stages and is an intermittent energy source. Wind cannot blow all the time and changes quite frequently. Solar energy is much more sustainable but cost and energy storage are holding it back. While renewable energy is intermittent, we need to be able to have better access to the technologies that generate renewable energy. Have you ever thought of equipping the house you live in with a wind generator or solar panels? Thinking of reducing your carbon footprint? Many people have thought of these alterative energy ideas at least once in the past few years. So what has stopped family’s from actually committing to equipping their homes with either of these two renewable energy sources? Most likely the costs have many thinking it is not worth the time to install.

The cost of renewable energy, or equipment, is the primary challenge that faces the renewable energy market. Having a wind turbine powering your home is great if you can afford to install it. According to an expert from AWEA (American Wind Energy Association), Mick Sagrillo, the costs of wind turbines depend on the amount of electricity your home needs. These costs could range anywhere from $20,000 to $80,000. In recent years, however, the costs have dropped, depending on the suppliers, to more affordable prices. The wind turbine itself is rather inexpensive to buy, they range from $50-$500, and depending on the size and the amount of watts you need to power your house. The costs to have these kinds of energy sources installed are still expensive due to the fact that there are still very few who specialize in this field even with the new growth in the industry. Solar Power is quite expensive, even with tax credits and rebates, a solar system will cost around $18,000 or more. However, after the initial costs of equipment and install labor fees, the savings after a few years would equal or more than the original costs. If those numbers are making your stomach do back flips...