These days many people are searching for ways either to live off or partially off the grid and looking for ways to reduce their overall carbon footprint. Fortunately, there are some green energy options and tips that can lead you to a more sustainable lifestyle.
For many of us, our home appliances and heater are powered by electricity, and this definitely can be problematic for the environment. Coal is one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, and about 40% of Americans receive their energy using this source. Another 20% receive power from nuclear generating stations, which produces extremely hazardous waste as well. While natural gas produces fewer emissions, this is still a greenhouse gas.
If you are searching for an easy, greener choice, you might consider propane. While it is a by-product of petroleum and natural gas processing, it is not a greenhouse gas and burns much more cleanly than other energy sources. Thrifty Propane installs above-ground or underground tanks and then can deliver propane whenever you need. You will get the best deal, however, if you purchase your propane when prices are the lowest, typically in the warmer, summer months. Tanks can be purchased or leased, and Thrifty Propane also will provide you with a free tank when you pre-buy a large amount of propane.
Solar panels are another source of energy that many people are installing these days. With solar energy, you will contribute nothing toxic to the environment and reduce your need to use electricity from a utility company entirely. Of course, there is a substantial up-front cost involved with installing these panels, but over time, you definitely will see a savings, and if the grid experiences a power outage, this shouldn't have any effect on you. This is also another advantage with propane, as well.
Beyond power, other utilities such as sewer services and water can be taken off the grid as well. It might surprise you to know that you can hire a well driller to create a system that will extract ground water from your property. This isn't cheap, but can be a great option if you really want off the grid or if you live in a rural area without easy access to water lines. You also can create a system to harness rainwater. A septic tank can be installed to deal with sewage, and while this requires maintenance and there are upfront costs, you can disconnect from local sewer lines.
For those who cannot make these changes, there are still ways to live a little greener. Reduce the amount of time you spend driving by carpooling or uses buses or trains. If you are close enough to work to bike or walk, consider doing this a few times each week. Shop at your local farmer's market and buy foods sourced close to home whenever possible and cook using seasonal ingredients. You can even grow some of your own produce, even if you have a small yard. These are just a few ways that you can live a greener lifestyle.
For many of us, our home appliances and heater are powered by electricity, and this definitely can be problematic for the environment. Coal is one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, and about 40% of Americans receive their energy using this source. Another 20% receive power from nuclear generating stations, which produces extremely hazardous waste as well. While natural gas produces fewer emissions, this is still a greenhouse gas.
If you are searching for an easy, greener choice, you might consider propane. While it is a by-product of petroleum and natural gas processing, it is not a greenhouse gas and burns much more cleanly than other energy sources. Thrifty Propane installs above-ground or underground tanks and then can deliver propane whenever you need. You will get the best deal, however, if you purchase your propane when prices are the lowest, typically in the warmer, summer months. Tanks can be purchased or leased, and Thrifty Propane also will provide you with a free tank when you pre-buy a large amount of propane.
Solar panels are another source of energy that many people are installing these days. With solar energy, you will contribute nothing toxic to the environment and reduce your need to use electricity from a utility company entirely. Of course, there is a substantial up-front cost involved with installing these panels, but over time, you definitely will see a savings, and if the grid experiences a power outage, this shouldn't have any effect on you. This is also another advantage with propane, as well.
Beyond power, other utilities such as sewer services and water can be taken off the grid as well. It might surprise you to know that you can hire a well driller to create a system that will extract ground water from your property. This isn't cheap, but can be a great option if you really want off the grid or if you live in a rural area without easy access to water lines. You also can create a system to harness rainwater. A septic tank can be installed to deal with sewage, and while this requires maintenance and there are upfront costs, you can disconnect from local sewer lines.
For those who cannot make these changes, there are still ways to live a little greener. Reduce the amount of time you spend driving by carpooling or uses buses or trains. If you are close enough to work to bike or walk, consider doing this a few times each week. Shop at your local farmer's market and buy foods sourced close to home whenever possible and cook using seasonal ingredients. You can even grow some of your own produce, even if you have a small yard. These are just a few ways that you can live a greener lifestyle.
About the Author:
Cath Buhr loves blogging reviews on propane retailers. For more details about Dayton propane retailers or to discover local Pittsburgh propane prices, please visit the Thrifty Propane website today.
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