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- HYDROPOWER: What is Hydropower, and where can I find additional information?
Hydropower is the production of electricity by harnessing the power of flowing water. This is
usually accomplished with a waterwheel, which turns with the flow of the water, and creates electricity through the
use of a generator. This form of renewable energy is site specific, in that you must live on a river or swiftly flowing
creek.
- MASONRY STOVES: What is a masonry stove, and where can I find additional information?
Masonry stoves are usually made of soapstone, tile, or other highly efficient thermal mass material. These
stoves can be fired up once a day for a couple of hours, and then closed off to allow the burning embers to slowly heat for up
to 24 hours.
- MICRO-HYDROPOWER: What is Micro-hydropower, and where can I find additional information?
Micro-hydropower is the production of electricity through a small, flowing stream. This source of electricity
is highly efficient and widely used, yet like windpower, it is site specific.
- PASSIVE SOLAR DESIGN: What is Passive solar design, and where can I find additional information?
Passive solar design is the technology of heating and cooling a building naturally, through the use of energy efficient
materials, improved r-values , thermal mass, airtight construction, and a proper siting of the building to take advantage of the sun, shade,
and wind.
- SOLAR ENERGY: What is Solar energy, and where can I find additional information?
Solar Energy is produced by photovoltaic solar panels which create DC (direct current) voltage that
can be connected and stored in batteries. This power is usually inverted to AC (alternating current) voltage, which can
supply the necessary electricity to be used to power some or all of a homes electrical systems.
- STEAM POWER: What is steam power, and where can I find additional information?
Steam power is generated by a wood-fired boiler unit producing steam. The steam is then directed
through a turbine which turns an alternator and creates electricity. This system can supply steam to saunas and hot
water heating through radiators and "in-floor" hydronic heating sources.
- WIND POWER: What is Wind power, and where can I find additional information?
Wind power is gathered through the use of a wind turbine. Resembling an airplane propeller, the
wind turbine is usually installed on top of a tall tower, collecting wind energy and converting it to electricity.
The turbine output is then made electrically compatible with your local utility and the output from the turbine is
fed directly into your household wiring through your breaker panel. Your home is then simultaneously powered by
both your local utility company, and your wind turbine. If your wind speed is low, your home will use the power
supplied by your utility company, if your wind speed is high, the turbine will supply all necessary power. The
system will rely on the turbine first, and will automatically use your utility power as a backup when necessary.
If you'd like more info on a subject that isn't listed here,
try posting
to
the Green Bulletin Board or Contact Us and we'll see what we can do.
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