In today’s economy, consumers have to be proactive about saving money. Energy prices have gone up significantly in the last five years and taken a toll on homeowners’ budgets. New regulations hurt rather than help the situation in that there’s nothing in place to keep energy rates in check.
When it comes to energy for your home, you have the choice of green or brown energy, based on your situation. How do know the difference between the two, and how will the differences affect your energy rates?
Brown Energy
Brown energy is the traditional energy that powers the majority of homes across America and Canada. It is energy produced by traditional means – in electrical plants using fossil fuels or coal. Energy produced in this manner is referred to as brown energy because of the pollution it leaves in its wake. Electricity rates like some of those quoted at Alberta Energy can be based on brown energy, but there’s a gradual shift towards alternative sources of energy.
Green Energy
Green energy is simply a renewable form of energy that in no way pollutes the environment like brown energy. Homeowners and businesses that take advantage of green energy use the resources available around them to power their homes and offices. This decreases the reliance on fossil fuels and the level of pollution in our environment. Hydroelectric power, solar power, biodiesel, wind power, and geothermal power are just a few examples of green energy.
These sources of power will never run low, and as consumer awareness increases, the popularity of green energy will continue to rise.
Costs
If you’re making the switch to green energy, your initial upfront cost could be quite startling. The equipment and labor to get it installed are the two main costs that you’ll need to budget for. For example, if you’re converting to solar energy, you’ll need to purchase all the panels, wiring, monitoring equipment, the inverter, and any smaller bits to make it all work. Some people take a do-it-yourself approach to save on the cost of labor, but this only makes sense if you know what you’re doing.
In sharp contrast to green energy, you don’t have to spend a fortune to connect to the grid. Once you request service, the power company will come out and establish your connection. But although there is no initial cost, you’ll have to pay an electric bill as long as you’re on the grid.
With green energy, your energy costs will be negligible after your investment pays for itself. The idea of free electricity is one reason why some homeowners leap at the chance to generate their own electricity.
Considerations
Government funded programs and incentives take the edge of the costs of installing your own renewable energy system. For instance, if you live in the United States, you can apply for a 30 percent tax credit. You can also look for rebates from local utility companies. Before you make the switch to green energy, do your research to find out what incentives are available in your area, and it will reduce your costs by as much as 50 percent.