Smart Energy Summer Archive Week 1: Efficiency Week 2: Renewables Week 3: Clean Cars Week 4: Nuclear Energy Week 5: Cool Cities Week 6: Coal Week 7: Biofuels Week 8: MPG   Energy Summer Main Cool Cities Solutions 10 Things You Can Do More About Efficiency More About Clean Cars Environmental news, green living tips, and ways to take action: Subscribe to the Sierra Club Insider!

Renewables How-To Powering your home with renewable energy is much easier than you might expect. Over 30 states have green energy programs that allow you to purchase electricity generated from wind, solar, or other renewable sources. If you want to take the next step and install a solar system that can heat and/or power your home, there are numerous federal and state, and local tax incentives, loans, and subsidies available. Buying Renewable Energy Many utilities offer you the opportunity to purchase renewable energy for a very small premium over your current electricity prices. In some places, such as Austin, TX, renewable energy may even cost you less than electricity generated from traditional sources. For various reasons the electricity you actually use may not come directly from renewable sources, but by enrolling in a renewable energy program you will still be supporting renewable energy and help ease our dependence on fossil fuels and reduce global warming pollution. Even if no green energy program is available where you live, you can also offset your global warming footprint by purchasing carbon offsets. For detailed information on the renewable energy options available in your area, visit: www.eere.energy.gov/greenpower/buying/buying_power.shtml Outfitting Your House with a Solar System The advanced solar technologies available today allow you to install systems that can be used to heat water for household use, heat water for heating systems, and even supply all of your electricity needs-even when it's cloudy. Local, state, and federal tax incentives that can total thousands of dollars are available to help offset the cost of installing a solar system. By selling excess electricity back to your utility, your system will help pay for itself even faster-and you get to watch your electricity meter spin backwards! For a detailed list of the various incentives available in your area, simply enter your zipcode at this site and click on "energy incentives" under the "Energy/Recycling" category. Up to Top HOME | Email Signup | About Us | Contact Us | Terms of Use | © 2008 Sierra Club