Solar and Wind Energy Pays Off for Grid-Tied Homeowners (September 2009)

    Everyone talks about green energy, but exactly how can grid-connected homeowners harness nature’s free energy to heat and power their homes? Authors Rex A. Ewing and Doug Pratt answer this question in the just-released Got Sun? Go Solar, Expanded 2nd Edition, a straight-talking, non-technical book for homeowners.
    “As the solar home power business explodes in America, this well-illustrated, easy-to-read book is essential,” says Neville Williams, founder of Standard Solar Inc.s
    The authors explain how solar-and wind-generated electricity will enable homeowners to become self-sufficient while protecting themselves from rising utility rates and grid blackouts. To reduce or even eliminate utility bills, homeowners can combine those systems with solar water heating and passive solar techniques plus energy efficient appliances, windows and lifestyles. With significant federal tax incentives and utility rebates now available, the time has never been better to personally invest in renewable energy.
    Author Rex A. Ewing says, “Renewable energy is ideal for new or existing homes, with many options that can be tailored for the family’s needs and budget, whether they want a couple of solar panels with micro-inverters or a whole-house hybrid system. For new homes, we recommend geothermal systems, the most efficient and cost-effective means of heating and cooling.”
    The authors know firsthand how these systems work. Rex Ewing, author of Power With Nature, has lived off-the-grid in the Colorado Rockies since 1999.  Doug Pratt, who lives in a grid-tied home in northern California, has been on the front lines of the renewable energy revolution since 1985 as a consultant, technician, teacher and writer.
    The book covers battery back-up versus non-battery solar/wind systems, equipment and installation considerations, along with legal and safety issues, incentives/rebates, and permits/paperwork. Other chapters cover solar water heating, passive solar techniques and geothermal systems. There’s also an extensive appendix of resources, state energy offices, worksheets, and much more.
    Got Sun? Go Solar, Expanded 2nd Edition: Harness Nature’s Free Energy to Heat and Power Your Grid-Tied Home  by Rex Ewing and Doug Pratt ($20.00; ISBN 978-0-9773724-6-1; PixyJack Press) is available at bookstores and online at www.PixyJackPress.com.