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Self Reliance Learning Center
Self Reliance
I want to work towards independence from the power grid and be able to be self-reliant
It is sometimes hard to know where to start or where we fit in to this new ‘green’ world.
For that reason, we have compiled a list of potential projects that can spark a change in everyone
(no matter whether big or small)! Keep checking back for new tips and project ideas that may help you
to save money and make a difference!
Install a Solar Water Heater
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- You will cut back on conventional utility demands by approximately 50-85% annually
- You can expect a simple payback of 4 to 8 years on a well-designed and properly installed solar water heater.
(Simple payback is the length of time required to recover your investment through reduced or avoided energy costs)
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Install Solar Panels
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- You won’t have to worry about the prediction of conventional electricity prices skyrocketing as your solar system
cost will remain the same. It is comparative to the stability of buying a home and locking in at a fixed rate vs.
renting a home and being susceptible to the movement in the markets. By purchasing a solar system, you are able to
lock in your rate for the next 25 years vs. gambling with the conventional market price
- PV is cost effective for residential customers located further than a quarter of a mile from the nearest utility
line and the advantages of a PV system often offset the relatively high initial investment
- There is net metering potential, which can offset the price of any extra electricity needed from the grid or you
can earn extra income (make sure that net metering policies are in force in your location)
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Install a Wind Turbine
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- Homes, businesses, farms and ranches can receive a significant portion of their needed power from free wind energy and can gain more independence from your local utility provider and grid
- There is net metering potential, which can offset the price of any extra electricity needed from the grid or you can earn extra income (make sure that net metering policies are in force in your location)
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Install a GeoExchange System
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- GeoExchange systems out-perform even the most efficient gas technology, and gas heat pumps, by an average of 36 percent in heating mode and 43 percent in cooling mode
- Energy costs with GeoExchange typically are 25 to 70 percent less than other HVAC systems and energy requirements
- Due to the 'zone' conditioning functionality, GeoExchange systems allow specific areas or rooms to be heated or cooled independently from each other
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