Adv. Electric Tips
Adv. Electric Tips carries on from Int. Electric Tips. People who are more serious and dedicated to being green may consider investing in renewable energy, such as solar, wind and hydro electricity. With a moderate investment in renewable energy, you can expect to produce enough energy to power lights, computers and TV's etc, but more energy consuming appliances such as Washing Machines, may require a larger investment in renewable energy. The best type of renewable energy to invest in will depend on your location and the natural resources available.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are the one form of renewable energy that is suitable for almost everyone. Even in cloudy weather some solar energy can still be collected. There are currently three main types of solar panels. Monocrystalline is approximately 15% efficient and the most expensive, Polycrystalline is 13% efficient and the second most expensive, and Amorphous is 9% efficient and the cheapest. However in low sunlight Amorphous is just as efficient as Monocrystalline.
Wind Turbines
In the correct areas wind turbines can be a effective form of renewable energy. However, the larger more expensive wind turbines that produce 6kW plus are more efficient and break less often so are more cost effective. The larger wind turbines produce more energy than is needed for the average house so it is best to get together with nabours for a group investment or sell the additional power back to the national grid. Additionally larger wind turbines also use less resources to produce than lots of smaller wind turbines so are the greener option. Remember some people think that wind turbines are an eye sore and you will have to get planning permission before you can erect one.
Hydro Electic Power
Hydro electric power is the most cost effective form of renewable energy but requires flowing water. You can expect to produce approximately twice the energy of solar panels or wind turbines for the same size financial investment. In the 1920's before cheap oil and gas became the dominant energy source in industry hydro electricity was the main source or electricity in the UK.