Alternative Sources of Energy

At the rate fossil fuels are being used, alternative sources of energy will need to provide a significant portion of our energy needs. Solar, wind, water and earth power are all viable alternatives that may one day be the preferred method of power production or form a system of energy solutions around the world. In the future, homeowners will be looking to the major producers of alternative energy sources for solutions to their energy needs.

Leaders in Solar

Although America produces a very small amount of the world’s solar power, we do have some very promising companies on the cutting edge of alternative energy technology. SunPower is one such company. They are publicly traded on the NASDAQ and have been in business since 1985.

Using their free assessment and solar estimator tools homeowners can successfully decide how much they would benefit from switching to solar power. They will help you find the right financing and even know what incentives you can qualify for by choosing alternative energy sources. Their solar panels are more efficient, requiring less room for more power production than previous panels allowed.

Leaders in Wind

For those who would benefit more from wind energy alternatives, you should know that companies in Europe develop most of the wind energy technology. General Electric, however has also developed wind turbine technology. There is also a company called Owens Corning that makes insulation, but they also make about ten percent of their revenue from glass fiber technologies that are used to reinforce the blades on wind turbines.

Leaders in Geothermal

Geothermal energy is also a very popular choice being looked into in areas such as the southwest, where they can benefit from this technology. Calpine is the number one producer of geothermal energy in the US today. Using the heat from the Earth’s core, Calpine is able to power more than 725,000 homes. For homeowners Water Furnace is the largest producer of geothermal heat pumps.

Another large producer of geothermal energy in the United States is Ormat Technologies. They own more than 10% of the world’s geothermal energy production and have won awards all over the world including the Technology Leadership of the Year Award, Distinguished Business of the Year Award, the Geothermal Pioneer Award, and many others.

When it comes to alternative sources of energy, the future looks bright for homeowners. Homes that generate their own electricity have higher values, and have lower monthly bills. If you are connected to a power grid, you may generate extra energy that you can sell back to the grid, making money off your system or receiving a credit. Your home will also be cleaner, less dust and improved air quality, keeping your family healthier.

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