Living off the grid might sound like an impossible feat, but these days it truly is something one can achieve. Even if you don't remove yourself entirely from the grid, there are definitely ways to reduce your impact on the environment and live in a much greener fashion.
For many of us, our home appliances and heater are powered by electricity, and this definitely can be problematic for the environment. Coal is one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, and about 40% of Americans receive their energy using this source. Another 20% receive power from nuclear generating stations, which produces extremely hazardous waste as well. While natural gas produces fewer emissions, this is still a greenhouse gas.
If you are searching for an easy, greener choice, you might consider propane. While it is a by-product of petroleum and natural gas processing, it is not a greenhouse gas and burns much more cleanly than other energy sources. Thrifty Propane installs above-ground or underground tanks and then can deliver propane whenever you need. You will get the best deal, however, if you purchase your propane when prices are the lowest, typically in the warmer, summer months. Tanks can be purchased or leased, and Thrifty Propane also will provide you with a free tank when you pre-buy a large amount of propane.
Solar panels are another source of energy that many people are installing these days. With solar energy, you will contribute nothing toxic to the environment and reduce your need to use electricity from a utility company entirely. Of course, there is a substantial up-front cost involved with installing these panels, but over time, you definitely will see a savings, and if the grid experiences a power outage, this shouldn't have any effect on you. This is also another advantage with propane, as well.
It isn't just energy that keeps us tied to the grid. We need to have a source of clean water and a method for dealing with sewage. A septic tank can be installed in your yard to handle the waste. This is an upfront cost and you have to be careful with your tank and provide proper maintenance. Beneath the surface of our yards, there usually is abundant groundwater. This can be tapped into and a groundwater retrieval system can be built at your home. Again, this is expensive, but you won't be taking water from the community sources and it can be an excellent option if you live in a sparsely populated area.
If you are a city dweller or cannot afford the upfront costs of solar power, wind power or a groundwater system, you can still reduce a bit off your overall footprint. Consider creating a carpool with your co-workers or, if possible, walk or ride your bike to work or see if public transportation can work for you. Energy-efficient appliances reduce the strain on the grid, and even unplugging appliances and turning off lights around the house helps. You can drastically reduce your water usage by watering less and at more efficient times of day and opting for plants and grass that require less water in general.
For many of us, our home appliances and heater are powered by electricity, and this definitely can be problematic for the environment. Coal is one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, and about 40% of Americans receive their energy using this source. Another 20% receive power from nuclear generating stations, which produces extremely hazardous waste as well. While natural gas produces fewer emissions, this is still a greenhouse gas.
If you are searching for an easy, greener choice, you might consider propane. While it is a by-product of petroleum and natural gas processing, it is not a greenhouse gas and burns much more cleanly than other energy sources. Thrifty Propane installs above-ground or underground tanks and then can deliver propane whenever you need. You will get the best deal, however, if you purchase your propane when prices are the lowest, typically in the warmer, summer months. Tanks can be purchased or leased, and Thrifty Propane also will provide you with a free tank when you pre-buy a large amount of propane.
Solar panels are another source of energy that many people are installing these days. With solar energy, you will contribute nothing toxic to the environment and reduce your need to use electricity from a utility company entirely. Of course, there is a substantial up-front cost involved with installing these panels, but over time, you definitely will see a savings, and if the grid experiences a power outage, this shouldn't have any effect on you. This is also another advantage with propane, as well.
It isn't just energy that keeps us tied to the grid. We need to have a source of clean water and a method for dealing with sewage. A septic tank can be installed in your yard to handle the waste. This is an upfront cost and you have to be careful with your tank and provide proper maintenance. Beneath the surface of our yards, there usually is abundant groundwater. This can be tapped into and a groundwater retrieval system can be built at your home. Again, this is expensive, but you won't be taking water from the community sources and it can be an excellent option if you live in a sparsely populated area.
If you are a city dweller or cannot afford the upfront costs of solar power, wind power or a groundwater system, you can still reduce a bit off your overall footprint. Consider creating a carpool with your co-workers or, if possible, walk or ride your bike to work or see if public transportation can work for you. Energy-efficient appliances reduce the strain on the grid, and even unplugging appliances and turning off lights around the house helps. You can drastically reduce your water usage by watering less and at more efficient times of day and opting for plants and grass that require less water in general.
About the Author:
Cath Buhr enjoys writing reviews on propane retailers. For more information about Dayton propane retailers or to find local Pittsburgh propane prices, please check out the Thrifty Propane website now.
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