The current energy environment is at the crossroads of becoming the leader for a new and improved economy. Currently, coal mining, natural gas production, and oil drilling drives the economy. There is a push by consumers and developers to come up with ways to replace and modify energy production all around the world. One way this is being done is by harnessing wind energy. Windmill farmers are showing up all across the country. Wind turbines are (more…)
There are countless ways to save money by using clean energy and you can start right now with a few simple ideas and become as involved as you like. Using ‘clean energy’ can include conservation steps you take to reduce your own household usage, replacing outdated kilowatt-hogging appliances with newer more efficient Energy Star rated versions and supporting alternative energy initiatives by switching to home-based or renewable energy sources that may be available through your local utility provider. Simply plugging your home entertainment system components into a power strip you switch off when not in (more…)
Clean energy saves automobile and truck drivers money by cutting the amount of consumed oil. Clean energy measures, such as, improved fuel economy vehicles, energy saving tires, and advanced bio fuel production assist American drivers in saving money and the environment. Investing in clean energy saves money at the pump, while creating American jobs. Renewable electricity, transit and bio fuels would create four times as many jobs, while decreasing dependence on fossil fuel or crude oil.
Green energy use in the home further reduces dependence on fossil fuels while saving the consumer money. Tax (more…)
As you begin making plans to build a new home, one of the first steps in the process will be to choose a builder. Taking the time and effort to incorporate eco-friendly materials into your home and creating an energy efficient atmosphere can go a long way toward reducing your footprint. Alone, you might find this a difficult and daunting task, but with the help of a green builder, you will be guided all through the process as to how to improve the environmental efficiency of your new home.Ferrier Custom Homes was established in 2004, but its parent company, Ferrier Builders, has been in the green building business since 1984. This company provides assistance throughout the design and building process for new homes, remodeling and commercial structures. Rather than forcing certain ideals or green methods down your throat, this company helps design a house that includes the sustainable features you choose for your home. (more…)
If an entire home renovation with solar panel cells and space heating design is not in your budget, there are other ways you can cut the cost of your monthly bills. Energy Star Appliances are tested and approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as products that meet strict energy efficiency standards. According to the EPA, Americans saved approximately 17 billion dollars on utility bills in 2009. The energy saved by all of these products was equivalent to the emissions of 30 million cars. (more…)
For most of the last century, Texas has been oil nation. After the 1901 discovery of oil at Spindletop, the Texas economy shifted away from its agricultural roots to a petroleum-driven market. Though this natural resource brought unprecedented wealth and growth to the area, it hasn’t provided the same benefits to nature. As the world begins to look for more sustainable energy sources, even Texas, were oil has been the state’s livelihood, is putting more focus on renewable resources. (more…)
Spanning from the heart of north Texas all the way up to Oklahoma’s southern border, the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area continues to slowly ooze outward by the day. Already the 8th largest city in the United States, Dallas is still growing, enticing new residents with a relatively resilient economy and its major city amenities. In order to keep up with the expansion, new buildings and structures go up almost overnight, a practice that when not done responsibly and carefully can be among the most environmentally damaging processes in a cities development. From building design to construction to operation, the energy using impact of erecting new edifices is greater than that found in any other facet of our economy. As the Metroplex continues to sprawl in all directions, lawmakers have undergone efforts in hopes that Dallas will keep the environment in mind, hopefully paving the way in green energy initiatives among America’s largest urban centers. (more…)
The Dallas chapter of Habitat for Humanity International was founded in 1985. Building more than 70 homes each year, the Dallas Habitat for Humanity is the second largest home builder in the city. This organization enlists volunteers to help build homes for underprivileged families in the community. In place of a down payment, the future homeowners must complete 400 hours of volunteer work on their house. They pay no interest on their Habitat Humanity loan to help keep costs low and earn more equity. Recently, the Dallas chapter decided to adopt new green building standards for new homes. (more…)
In addition to the environmental benefits that come with using energy efficient appliances and renewable resources to power your home, these efforts are also very cost effective. Green Built Texas Homes is an organization dedicated to raising awareness about how to create more sustainable homes throughout Texas. A Green Built home emphasizes waste reduction while the home is being built, through recycling and storm water control. (more…)
As energy costs continue to rise, it is important to stretch your dollar as far as you can. Much of our monthly energy bill is made up of frivolous uses that could be eliminated. Not only will you save money but when you conserve energy you reduce the effects of carbon emissions that are released during electricity generation. Take a look at these five cheap, or free, and easy ways to conserve energy. (more…)