Clean Energy

Solar Power

Photovoltaic technology (PV), better known as solar electricity converts sunlight into electricity. PV has been the primary source of electricity on satellites since the 1950s, but only recently became affordable to homes. PV systems are an attractive alternative to conventional electricity for a variety of reasons. They are silent and non-polluting, utilize a renewable source of energy and require no special training to operate.

The average house is responsible for 22,000 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions per year. Electricity generation is the dominant industrial source of air emissions in the United States today. Fossil fuel-fired power plants are responsible for 67 percent of the nation's sulfur dioxide emissions, 23 percent of nitrogen oxide emissions, and 40 percent of man-made carbon dioxide emissions. These emissions will not only lead to smog, acid rain, and haze, but they also increase the risk of climate change.

Solar electricity produces absolutely no emissions therefore providing 100% clean power. Once a PV system is installed, there’s no cost for the energy produced. The energy savings plus renewable energy certificates will outpace the cost of electricity for the entire home. On a 10.082kw solar power system you could save $306,525.00 over thirty years and it will only take six years to break even from the expenses of the installation. Solar energy will also benefit your home in the event of a power outage. PV systems can be used to generate and store electricity needed during unexpected utility power outages.

New Jersey offers a full exemption from the state's 7% sales tax for all solar and wind energy equipment. This exemption is available to all taxpayers. All major types of solar energy equipment, including equipment for passive solar design, are considered eligible for the exemption.

If you don’t live in New Jersey and are considering switching to solar energy for your home you can visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiencies at www.dsireusa.org to find out what kind of rebates or funding your state offers for clean energy.

Biodiesel

Generally speaking, biodiesel is an alternative to standard diesel fuel that is made from biological ingredients instead of petroleum (or crude oil). Biodiesel is usually made from plant oils or animal fat through a series of chemical reactions. It is both non-toxic and renewable. Because biodiesel essentially comes from plants and animals, the sources can be replenished through farming and recycling.

The United States imports more than 60% of its petroleum, two-thirds of which is used to fuel vehicles in the form of gasoline and diesel. The demand for petroleum imports is increasing. With much of the worldwide petroleum reserves located in politically volatile countries, the United States is vulnerable to supply disruptions.

Biodiesel can be produced domestically and used in conventional diesel engines, directly substituting for or extending supplies of traditional petroleum diesel. (Remember to consult with your auto manufacturer and engine warranty statement before using biodiesel in your vehicle.) It also has an excellent energy balance: biodiesel contains 3.2 times the amount of energy it takes to produce it. What better reason to start making your own fuel?