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87Sell Solar Power Into Your Grid and Make Money
by Elle MacKenna
A recent New York Times article blasted solar energy systems as making “no economic sense.” The truth: solar photovoltaic systems aren’t cheap but they do payback. Sales of solar photovoltaic systems have been rising up to 50% annually in some states and it’s not just environmental do-gooders who are investing in the renewable energy. For many homeowners, solar energy is about dollars and cents. published 2 years ago
83Is Biodiesel Economical?
by Elle MacKenna
There has been a significant increase in the amount of biodiesel sold in the United States over the past decade from 500,000 gallons in 1999 to 250 million gallons in 2006, according to the National Biodiesel Board. The trend is driven by increasing concerns over oil dependence and growing awareness of environmental issues but is biodiesel economical? published 2 years ago
79Ten Easy Ways to Save Energy This Winter
by Elle MacKenna
Winter is a great time of year but brings with it increased costs of homeownership. Cold winds, winter snows, less sunlight all present challenges to keeping warm. But there are easy ways to help ease the... published 14 months ago
79Green Roofs: Energy Savings and Much More
by Elle MacKenna
Most green roofs in the United States are on large-scale commercial or public buildings but the residential market is catching up. Green roofs can be installed on traditional residences providing homeowners with a beautiful way to cut down their heating and cooling costs. published 2 years ago
78Alternatives to Double Pane Windows
by Elle MacKenna
Windows have become a central focus in energy efficient building strategies. Newer technologies including double and triple glazing have helped boost window performance but these upgrades can be expensive and, depending on where you live, not necessarily the most cost-effective. Before you make a significant investment in double pane replacement windows, consider some alternatives. published 18 months ago
78Inexpensive Green Strategies for New Construction
by Elle MacKenna
The greenest buildings take advantage of low-tech sustainable design principles that incur little or no upfront costs. These are easy to implement when building a new house and can help create a healthier, more comfortable, energy-efficient home. published 17 months ago
76Tankless Water Heaters: Better Energy Efficiency
by Elle MacKenna
In a typical home the energy used to heat water accounts for around 15-20 percent of utility costs. Conventional systems use a storage tank to supply hot water but these can waste energy through standby loss – water that is heated but not used. One way to save energy and cut down the cost of heating your home’s water is by installing a tankless water heater. published 18 months ago
75Solar Thermal Systems for Energy Savings
by Elle MacKenna
Solar thermal systems are one of my favorite energy-efficiency topics. They are simple, affordable, green and save money. As energy costs continue to soar and sustainable building goes mainstream, many... published 14 months ago
73Saving Water in the Bathroom: High-efficiency Toilets and Showers
by Elle MacKenna
Fresh water is a finite resource but nearly half the water that passes through the pipes in a typical home goes to waste. If you live in a “water-rich” region it’s easy to take it for granted but nearly 75% of the states in the U.S. expect a local, regional or statewide water shortage within the next five years. Wasting water depletes this quickly diminishing resource and can cost you money. There are simple ways to cut down your water usage without compromising comfort. Here’s how… published 18 months ago
73Costs of Installing Solar Panels for Your Home
by Elle MacKenna
It is exciting to see solar photovoltaic making a strong comeback. Gone are the clumsy installations that plagued the 1970s and welcome new, innovative applications that are integrated into designs. Around... published 15 months ago
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