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Solar — Solar technologies use the sun's energy and light to provide heat, light, hot water, electricity, and even cooling.
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Passive Solar – Buildings designed for passive solar and day lighting incorporate design features such as large south-facing windows and building materials that absorb and slowly release the sun's heat. Incorporating passive solar designs can reduce heating bills as much as 50%. |
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Photovoltaics (PV) – Photovoltaic solar cells, which directly convert sunlight into electricity, are made of semi-conducting materials. Complex systems can light houses and provide power to the electric grid. |
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Solar Hot Water and Space Heating and Cooling – Solar hot water heaters use the sun to heat either water or a heat-transfer fluid in collectors. A typical system will reduce the need for conventional water heating and heats your home. |
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Reclaimed/salvaged wood: Reclaimed wood is salvaged from buildings and structures that are being remodeled or ton down. This wood is not associated with recent timber harvesting, it reuses materials, and it can reduce the construction and demolition load on landfills. |
Wind: Minnesota contains one of the windiest corridors in the world. To support wind energy use and research call Xcel Energy (1–800–895–4999) or go to their site and register. Here is the link!
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Geothermal/Radiant Heating: How does it work?
Throughout the year, outdoor temperatures fluctuate with the changing seasons. However, about four to six feet below the Earth's surface, temperatures remain relatively moderate and constant all year. That's because the Earth absorbs 47% of all the heat and energy from the sun that reaches the surface. A geothermal system circulates a water–based fluid through a buried loop system to take advantage of these constant temperatures. Learn more at www.massmanngeothermal.com |
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Quote:
"First, there is the power of the Wind, constantly exerted over the globe... Here is an almost incalculable power at our disposal, yet how trifling the use we make of it! It only serves to turn a few mills, blow a few vessels across the ocean, and a few trivial ends besides. What a poor compliment do we pay to our indefatigable and energetic servant!"
– Henry David Thoreau Paradise (To Be) Regained" [1843]
Statistic:
Installing ceiling insulation and double – glazed windows in every US home can save more oil than the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge can produce at its most optimistic projections, at about 1/20 the cost.
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