Renewable Energy

Wind Power: Are Vertical Axis Turbines Better?

Mother Earth News — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 21:22:44 GMT

Worldwide interest in renewable energy options has given rise to a rash of new wind turbine designs. Some of the most recent models on the market are vertical axis turbines, which manufacturers claim are quiet, efficient, economical and perfect for residential energy production, especially in urban environments. We asked Mick Sagrillo, veteran residential wind power authority, to answer our questions about this technology and its future in the realm of alternative energy.

Vote: Are wind turbines beautiful or ugly?

Mother Earth News — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 19:14:40 GMT

Cast your vote — are large-scale wind turbines attractive or hideous on the horizon?

Solar is the Solution

Mother Earth News — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 16:05:48 GMT

It’s time to take renewable energy seriously. By harnessing current technologies and tapping the world’s virtually inexhaustible supply of solar energy, we can begin to build a brighter future. If we act now, we can use renewable energy resources to replace our fossil fuel based economy and cure our addiction to oil, stabilize the climate and maintain our standard of living, all at the same time.

Simple Insulation Ideas and Tips

Mother Earth News — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 17:50:51 GMT

With winter on the way, it's a great time to evaluate the amount of insulation in your home. Adding insulation is often an easy way to significantly improve your home's energy efficiency and save money on heating and cooling bills. If you're short on time for extensive insulation projects, though, don't worry ? there are simple options available, too.

Save Energy, Eliminate Phantom Loads

Mother Earth News — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 23:56:16 GMT

Did you know that your TV is consuming energy even when you're not using it? In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, 75 percent of the electricity that powers home electronics is consumed while these devices are turned off!

RENEWABLE ENERGY

Mother Earth News — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 14:53:09 GMT

The best advice on solar, wind, energy efficiency and more.

How durable are small-scale wind turbines?

Mother Earth News — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 21:05:07 GMT

A wind energy expert discusses the durability of small-scale wind turbines.

Best Reading on Renewable Energy

Mother Earth News — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 03:26:39 GMT

The topic of alternative energy can be confusing. Fortunately, some of the best minds in the field have condensed their decades of research and innovation into an easily accessible form — books.

Back to School with a Solar Backpack

Mother Earth News — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 14:04:47 GMT

Whether you're headed back to school or just need something to lug your stuff around town, a backpack is an essential accessory. But rather than just an ordinary bag, check out a solar backpack.

8 Easy Projects for Instant Energy Savings

Mother Earth News — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 18:15:04 GMT

It’s easier than you might think to reduce your energy consumption and reduce your carbon footprint. In fact, you can slash your home heating and electric bills by taking a series of simple steps, that together add up to big savings. One easy place to start is with the ideas listed here, eight simple home energy projects that are easy enough to do yourself, and pay for themselves quickly in reduced energy bills.