Make A Wind Turbine

Topping the list of the global community’s concerns is the climate change being documented by researchers and the need to reduce carbon emissions. As the leaders of the world come together to stragegize how to stop global warming and reduce emissions, we can also do our part to help. How? Put in a homemade solar cell and not only get free energy but do something good for the environment while you’re at it. Make sure to use a kit made by a certified professional if you do decide to put in a homemade solar cell. If you are using an uncertified kit, that is very dangerous. Start your research here by reading our homemade solar cell diy review.

Reducing the amount of energy we use in our home, in our workplace and in our cars can have a significant affect on emissions. You can also accomplish this by installing a homemade solar cell. It’s not as scary as you might think. Besides that, you are going to save money as well. We can collectively make a big difference on a worldwide scale if everyone take the time to make small changes. Here is some advice on how you can cut down on your energy usage.

In the home

* Switch to energy-saving light bulbs. While you’re at it, put in a homemade solar cell. It is so much easier than you would think. They cost slightly more, but save up to ten times their price over their lifetime.
* When you are boiling water, or heating anything, only boil the amount you need. Boil just enough water for the amount of tea you plan to consume. After all, is it necessary to boil a pot for one cup.
* Switch off appliances when you are not using them to save money and energy. TVs, videos, stereos and computers left on standby can use use a lot of energy.
* If it’s recyclable, recycle it. We throw away our own weight in rubbish every month, but bottles, cans, paper, card, plastic and aluminium can all be reused or recycled which saves energy. For example, it takes the same amount of energy to make 20 cans from recycled material as it takes to make one can from scratch. If you recycle enough, your monthly garbage bill will go down if you reduce the service needed.
* If you are located in a region of the world with ample sun exposure, you could likely get all your energy consumption needs met with solar power.
* Turning down your thermostat by just three degrees will save you 10 per cent in energy costs. Also, make sure that your home is well insulated so that it keeps the heat in.
* When washing clothes and dishes make sure the appliances are full. You can also try warm water instead.
* When you cook, place lids on your pots and pans.

In the office

* Where at all possible, store all documents in digital format on your computer or another storage device. If possible, print on both sides of a page of paper to reduce waste.
* It is not necessary to fly to a meeting that is half way around the world. Online audio and video conferencing has effectively cut out the need for face to face meetings and conferences. Potentially you can save a significant amount of energy here.
* Turn your computer off completely or at least put it to sleep when you are not using it. When your computer is in screensaver mode, it is still using a lot of energy.

In the car

* For shorter journeys, leave the car at home and use a bike instead. Use your bike to get around. Not only is this a fun and healthy way to get around but you’ll also not have to deal with traffic jams if you live in a congested part of town.
*. You may get to work faster and it will even save you money.
* Get a hybrid and join the millions who have. Ask yourself if you really need your polluting sports utility vehicle. If not, trade it in for a hybrid? Purchasing a hybrid is a great way to reduce your carbon imprint as you can travel the same distance on half the gasoline.
* Public transport is far more energy efficient than driving. And don’t forget how much pollution airplanes cause. Whenever possible, opt for ground transporation options like trains, buses, or cars.

In the shops

* Do not accept plastic bags from shops. Be sure to bring your own recyclable bags.
* Try to get locally grown organic food. Organic food is farmed less intensively and usually requires less energy to produce. In addition, the fact that it is grown locally means a reduction in transport costs.
* Consume less meat. Livestock are a major source of greenhouse gases.

Water

While water isn’t strictly energy, it is a finite resource that we need to preserve and take care of. Here are some tips on how to cut down on your water usage:

* Always use the shower instead of the bath.
* Never let water just run from the tap while you brush your teeth.
* Make sure you have a full load before using the washing machine or dishwasher.
* Try to install a system to use your waste water run-off to keep your garden watered. This will also serve to remind you to choose non-toxic detergents and soaps.
* Water your garden when the sun is not at its peak like before sunrise or at sunset.  This allows the water to be absorbed into the ground instead of evaporating in the hot sun if you water during the day. 
* A great idea gardening idea is add large water containers aka water butts. Situate them under the edges of your roof so they receive run-off when it rains.

This is just a few examples of easy yet powerful methods for reducing your energy consumption and carbon footprint. Even if we all follow just a few of these steps it will make a big difference and save us money as well.

Ralph Somers, editor

Homemade Solar Cell Forum

Technorati Tags: homemade solar cell