Learn About Alternative Energy to Celebrate Earth Day!

Electricians in Katy, TX, Share Information About Alternative Energy

What Alternative Energy Is and How It Can Help The Earth

Not long ago, alternative and renewable energy sources were the stuff of science fiction books. Then, when the systems were in their infancy, they were expensive, cumbersome, or impractical. But, as technological advancements forge ahead at full speed, alternative energy is fast becoming a reality. But it’s not just reality on a large scale. Technology is sufficiently advanced that small-scale renewable energy generators are widely available at a fraction of the price they used to be. These sources include solar, wind, and earth energy. Read on to find out more about alternative energy and how it helps the earth!

The Power of the Sun

Solar power has been used in some form for several decades. It used to be that solar panels could only support a fraction of a home or building’s electricity needs, but that number is fast climbing. The energy of the sun is transferred to electricity through the use of PV cells in solar panels. This electricity can then be stored in a battery for use at a later time, such as at night when the sun isn’t shining.

Some areas and solar systems allow homes to generate more electricity than they use. When this happens, the excess electricity gets transferred to the local power grid for others to use. Many electric companies credit this leftover electricity to the home’s account, reducing the electric bill or even cutting the homeowners a check for the amount of electricity they gave to the grid.

The Power of the Wind

Like the sun, the wind is one resource that’s truly renewable. Granted, the wind blows more in some places than it does others, so wind energy is more feasible in some areas than others. Many people are familiar with the giant wind turbines that tower over the earth, spinning slowly. But wind turbines don’t have to be that big to work. In fact, they make smaller wind turbines that can be attached to homes to generate electricity.

Like solar energy, wind energy is transferred into electricity, which is then stored in a battery. This way, it can be used even when there is not sufficient wind blowing. This is usually used as supplemental energy, helping people lower their electric bills and helping the environment by cutting back on greenhouse gases associated with traditional electricity generation.

Other Alternative Energy Sources

While wind and solar are two major sources of renewable energy, they aren’t the only ones. Geothermal energy is generated by using energy stored in the earth itself. Heat pumps are the most common way to do this. Instead of exchanging heat with the air, like a regular heat pump, a geothermal heat pump exchanges heat with the earth, heating the home in the winter and cooling it in the summer.

Hydroelectric power is also available on a smaller scale for those homeowners with running water on their property. Even a small stream can generate electricity for the home without the need for damming or diverting water. Alternative energy sources all have one thing in common: they don’t rely on greenhouse gas-producing methods to generate electricity. And since electricity generation is currently one of the top sources for generating electricity, every renewable energy source can help.

About Electric City

Electric City opened its doors in 2008 to serve Katy, TX, with excellent customer service. Their expert technicians offer same-day service and always arrive on time. They offer up-front pricing and a lifetime guarantee so their customers can rest easy. Contact them to learn more about eco-friendly electrical services in Katy.