Producing the power in our homes from "green" energy and "clean" sources is a real possibility. A long-standing dream could soon become everyday reality. Thanks to innovative technologies, families can draw green energy from new sources by using inexhaustible natural resources such as solar and wind power.
Alternative energy sources: wind and solar power for the home
Using renewable energy sources creates a lower environmental impact than relying on fossil fuels such as oil, coal, natural gas, or nuclear fuels. Renewable energy is sustainable when it is used responsibly: it can meet present and future needs without causing significant harm to the environment or human health. Used effectively, it can also reduce the cost of energy production.
Alternative energy sources with many functions
In addition, alternative energy sources can serve several purposes around the home. Sunlight can be used to heat the house, and heating and ventilation are among the most expensive household systems. They often account for about half of household energy bills. These systems are also a major source of carbon dioxide emissions and contribute to global warming; sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which are associated with acid rain, are also released when conventional fuels are burned. By using solar energy for heating and cooling, we can significantly reduce electricity costs and help protect the environment. The sun is the cleanest source of heat and light available. Everyone uses solar energy to some degree: when we open the curtains during the day and turn off artificial lighting, we have already taken a useful step. Modern technology can help us make better use of solar energy at home while creating a warm, comfortable environment. Curiously, we often use solar energy least during summer, precisely when the sun is strongest. This is especially true for south-facing windows. In winter, they allow solar energy to enter the room even when the sun is low on the horizon. In summer, blinds, curtains, shrubs, and shade trees can help prevent overheating. To make full use of sunlight, it is important to choose the right windows, preferably shapes and systems that minimize heat loss. Letting maximum daylight into your home can reduce or even eliminate the need for artificial lighting and create a bright, welcoming atmosphere.
The best materials are natural
This is only a small part of the potential use of solar energy in our homes. To optimize it, heat can be stored for later use. We all know that nights are colder than days, so it makes sense to collect warmth during the day and release it later. Materials such as glass, stone, brick, and water can absorb heat during the day and give it off at night.
Create a natural cooling system yourself
In addition to heating, natural resources can also be used for cooling. Air currents provide a free natural cooling system for the home in spring, autumn, and summer. Open windows positioned in the direction of the airflow, as well as windows opposite them. This creates cross-ventilation and cools the house naturally.
Suggestions for homes on several levels
Are you familiar with the laws of physics? Then you can put that knowledge to use at home. Hot air rises and is replaced by fresh air from below. In a two-story house, you can achieve this effect easily: open windows on the first floor and open a window on an upper level, for example near the top of the stairs.
As in Asia: a multifunctional floor
To cool the house, you can also use the cooling effect of the floor. Everyone knows that concrete floors in the shade remain pleasantly cool even on the hottest summer days. Floors covered with tiles, concrete, or stone slabs can significantly help cool the house in summer and reduce the need for air conditioning.
Hang laundry outside
In recent years many people have rediscovered that clothes dryers are not always needed in the summer months, and they do raise the electric bill. Sun and wind are very helpful for natural drying. This has several advantages: energy savings, fresh-smelling laundry, and less need for strong detergents and disinfecting products.
Alternative energy sources: a roof collector for hot water
Another way to use solar energy is for hot water. A passive water-heating system usually uses a collector placed on the roof of the house, where it absorbs heat from the sun. The heated water is then moved by convection so it can reach the home’s water system. Such a system can cover up to 50 percent or more of a household’s hot-water needs.
Sun and voltage
In addition to all the applications above, solar radiation can be used to produce electricity. Photovoltaic systems make this possible by converting sunlight into electrical energy. Alternative energy sources are especially important in areas where there is no power grid.
Wind energy
The force and potential of wind are enormous. We see its strength in hurricanes, tornadoes, and storms, where trees can be uprooted and even large buildings damaged. This same power can be useful in wind turbines, especially in windy mountain regions and open plains.
The power of water
Hydropower, or energy from water, has been used since ancient times to drive mills. Today it remains one of the least expensive sources of energy production. Hydroelectric power does not pollute the air, although reservoirs can disturb water balance and reduce water quality.
Every day you can try to use alternative energy sources and discover new ways they can work at home and at play. Many children’s toys, for example, need battery power. In recent years, solar-powered and manually powered toy cars and boats have appeared. You can also use rechargeable batteries with a solar charger. Push mowers, garden lights, lanterns, and even solar outdoor showers are modern ways to save energy.
As you can see, renewable energy is inexhaustible and its potential is huge. Humanity’s efforts to harness it are growing and becoming more successful, opening new horizons for technologies that protect the environment and human health.
Anna Lohan
Yolande A. Bow
