You Can Do Renewable Energy At Home Too
March Hare Issue 15

You Can Do Renewable Energy At Home Too

by Cecil Scheib

We've learned a lot about setting up alternative energy systems in the past few months, and think there is some useful information we can pass on. Here's some tips if you're just getting started:

• Try it! You don't have to take your whole house or apartment off grid to experiment with renewable energy. Start with a easier project. One small solar panel and an auto battery can easily provide enough power for the lights and stereo in your bedroom.
• Don't worry. While it's important to have some knowledge about what you're doing, and essential to follow the good safety procedures found in any "how-to" book about home power, also keep in mind that 12 volt DC power is a lot safer than the 120 volt AC power that comes out of a wall socket. And since the alternative energy field is booming right now, there is plenty of information available. So go to the library (or see the "Resources" sidebar above), arm yourself with some information, and give it a shot.
• Have the right tools. Don't try stripping battery cable with those kitchen scissors unless you enjoy frustration and danger. Go out and buy a battery tester, a wire stripper, good electrical tape, a digital voltmeter, and the right cable connectors. The few dollars you spend will save you hours of hardship and may spell the difference between success and unhappiness in your energy experiments.
• Start small. Don't get so ambitious that you begin a project you can't finish. A specific, well-thought-out idea that you can complete quickly will boost your ego and confidence without costing too much. Don't worry, there will be plenty of time to expand your system later.
• Use your local salvage yard or surplus reseller. Basic electric components like switches, split-bolt connectors, and wire can be pricey when bought from an upscale alternative energy reseller, but dirt cheap when found at a surplus house. In urban area there's almost certainly a place like the one near us, where you can buy spools of wire by the pound and a pair of moon boots for $8.

Renwable Energy Resources

1. First off, try the library. Looking under "Electricity" is a good place to start. Let phrases like "12 volt" and "home power" catch your eye.
2. Speaking of home power, Home Power magazine is a fantastic resource for the renewable energy (OK, as HP calls it, RE) enthusiast. Find more information at www.homepower.com or 800-707-6585.
3. To purchase solar panels and other accessories, there are many sources. We often use Kansas Wind Power (they're generally the cheapest and offer decent service), at 785-364-4407. We've got extra Kansas Wind Power catalogs here so call or email me if you need one. Of course, don't forget about big retail houses--Real Goods (www.realgoods.com, 800-919-2400) and Jade Mountain (www.jademountain.com, 800-442-1972).
4. Dancing Rabbit. Give me a call if you think you'd like to get started in home power and have some questions.

--Cecil Scheib