Most of our energy sources come from five major sources. They encompass:

1. Coal – is the largest energy source of fuel for generating electricity. Coal is a fossil fuel. Toxic fumes are released into the atmosphere, when electricity is generated. Coal has a limited supply, as Coal Mines are shutting down in the United States. Therefore, we must end our dependency on coal.

2. Oil – is turned to  gas to power our vehicles. Oil is also used to generate electricity and to supply heat. The United States imports over half of the oil that we utilize, and the number is growing every year. Oil is a finite resource and getting more valuable, everyday. The price of gas is determined by foreigners. We want to stop our dependency on oil.

3. Nuclear Power – was at one time the path to go. It seemed like a sure way to handle our energy needs. But with the apprehension of radiation leaks and fallout, Nuclear Power took a downhill slide. Projects were stalled, some where cancelled and others were never built. To meet our energy needs, we demand to decide if Nuclear Power is a practicable alternative.

4. Natural Gas – is a source energy that heats many homes in the United States. It is a relatively clean burning fossil fuel. Some utility companies are using Natural Gas to make electricity. Despite its expanded usage, Natural Gas is a finite resource. Natural Gas prices have increased over the last few years. Thus, we demand to end our dependency on Natural Gas.

5. Hydroelectric Power – uses water to produce electricity. Only about 7% of the electric power generated in the United States comes from Hydroelectric Power Plants. To develop the project, Hydroelectric Power Plants take a long time to plan and design; they contain a large area and disrupt the ecosystem for the area. New Hydroelectric Power Plants are few and far between. Can Hydroelectric Power meet the needs of the future?

What Alternative Power Sources Are Available?

To help our growing energy requirements, Alternative Power Sources are being developed. They include:

1. Solar Energy or power from the sun. Solar Energy is being made use of to power homes and buildings. To reduce the cost to build, you can make and install your own Solar Panels. Solar Energy is an never ending resource.

2. Wind Energy is being developed. Windmills are going up in rural areas, lakes and oceans. These windmills can power a town or a large area. You can also build a small windmill for your property. In some areas, wind energy is a never ending resource.

3. Magnetic Generators can power your house. These generators contain magnets that rotate rapidly and develop electricity. They can be built in one weekend. Your cost includes the kit (around $50) and $100 for supplies. These Magnetic Generators supply an infinite resource.

4. Generators are good for emergency and short-term uses. Generators work on propane, diesel or other fuel. If the generator is made use of for long periods, the cost to fuel the generator is very high.

5. Solar Wind Hybrid Systems combine two alternative power sources. Solar and Wind Energy can be used on a site to produce continuous energy, every day, all year long. This is great for homes and businesses that are accessible to electricity.

6. Geothermal Energy uses an underground alternative power source. Long stretches of pipe are installed beneath the ground. Water, inside of the pipes, turns hot and warms up the homes and buildings. You can not do this on rocky terrain and unsteady ground.

7. Methane Gas is a little known alternative power source. Methane Gas is a byproduct of landfill sites and garbage refuse areas. When collected, Methane Gas can heat homes and businesses. Widespread distribution of Methane Gas may occur in the future.

Even though our resources are depleting, we can look to alternative power sources to power our homes and businesses. Solar and wind energy projects are being produced. You can also purchase a kit to make solar panels and build a windmill for your property.

You Can Do It!

You could set-up your own projects and save money! You will also be lending a hand to help the environment with your solar and wind energy projects.

Good Luck!