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| energy free homes for a small planet: Energy Free Ann V. Edminster, 2009 Individuals and institutions have been working towards zero energy homes for more than a decade. Energy Free distills those collective efforts, compiling lessons learned, resource information, and step-by-step guidance on how to make the decisions that will yield an energy-free residential project, whether single-family or multifamily, new or existing, in an urban or a rural setting. -- Page [4] cover. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Adobe Homes for All Climates Lisa Schroder, Vince Ogletree, 2010-09-06 The lay-up of adobe bricks is an easy, forgiving way to achieve a solid masonry-wall system. Contrary to stereotypes, adobe is perfectly adaptable for use in cold, wet climates as well as hot and dry ones, and for areas prone to earthquakes. With its efficient use of energy, natural resources for construction, and minimal effort for long-term maintenance, it’s clear that the humble adobe brick is an ideal option for constructing eco-friendly structures throughout the world. The book is ideal both for first-time do-it-yourselfers and for experienced adobe builders seeking to improve their craft. Drawing on the experience of more than fifty major adobe projects since 1993, Adobe Homes for All Climates describes Adobe Building Systems’ patented reinforcement and scaffolding systems, showing readers how to construct adobe homes more easily and safely, and with superior strength, durability, structural integrity, and aesthetic appeal, as compared to earthen homes of the past. All aspects of adobe construction are covered, including making and laying adobe bricks, installing lintels and arches, conduits and pipes, doors and windows, top plates and bondbeams, ideal wall dimensions, adobe finishes, and other adobe construction components, such as the inexpensive use of scaffolding. These methods will produce a premium product that will meet and often exceed inspection standards. Equipped with this manual, you will be able to obtain a building permit, make adobe bricks swiftly, and confidently lay them up. You will be able to beautifully finish your adobe walls with earth plasters creating stunning colors and outstanding light effects and create a beautiful, energy-efficient home that will last for generations to come. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Little House on a Small Planet Shay Salomon, 2010 Presents a guide to small-structure living that cites such potential benefits as reduced costs, closer communities, and simpler lifestyles, while outlining basic principles for the design and habitation of efficient, high-density homes. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Positive Energy Homes Robin Brimblecombe, Kara Rosemeier, 2017-05-01 Positive energy homes enable people to live healthy and comfortable lives with energy left over to share. Creating a house you love that produces surplus energy is surprisingly easy with a thorough understanding of how buildings work and careful attention to detail in construction. The Passive House standard, with its well-proven track record, forms the basis for creating positive energy homes. This book explores the Passive House ‘fabric first’ approach, as well as the science and practicalities of effective ventilation strategies, smart options for heating and cooling, daylight harvesting, and efficient lighting and appliances. Positive Energy Homes provides home owners world-wide, architects and builders with an understanding of the principles and technical details of building these houses. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Power from the Sun - 2nd Edition Dan Chiras, 2016-01-01 The completely revised and updated guide to solar energy – everything you need to power your home or small business Written for the individual or business layman, this is the fully revised and updated guide for generating solar electricity. Practical and accessible, it provides a basic understanding of electricity, wiring, and solar energy, and guides the reader through solar electricity site assessment and determining the type of solar system needed for generating solar electricity, providing a solid understanding of grid-tied and off-grid systems, along with important guidelines on installation. Power from the Sun – 2nd Edition discusses types of photovoltaic and photovoltaic solar energy systems, and includes comprehensive information on recent changes and improvements in PV modules, charge controllers, inverters, batteries, generators, and net metering policies. It offers an excellent overview of the many options available as a guide for generating solar electricity, allowing the reader to make the best choices for their individual situation during the design, installation, and operation of a solar energy system. The definitive layman’s guide for homeowners, business owners, installers, architects, and just about anyone interested in generating solar electricity to lower energy bills and achieve greater independence through solar energy. Dan Chiras is Director of the Center for Renewable Energy and Green building through which he teaches workshops on solar electricity, wind energy, passive solar design, natural building, and green building. He is also president of Sustainable Systems Design, Inc., a company that installs residential solar electricity and wind energy systems and consults on passive solar design, residential renewable energy, and green building throughout North America. Dan is the author of 32 previous books, including The Homeowner's Guide to Renewable Energy and Power from the Wind . |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Sustainable Residential Interiors Annette Stelmack, Associates III, Kari Foster, Debbie Hindman, 2014-09-15 The Second Edition of Sustainable Residential Interiors addresses cutting edge processes, strategies, and principles as well as details for in-depth product vetting criteria. Award-winning, leading interior designer Annette Stelmack shares her expertise from the perspective of LEED Building Design & Construction projects, healthy interiors, and chemical sensitivities, addressing principles, strategies, and solutions for design practitioners. A comprehensive update of the current state of the sustainable interior design industry is provided, including present and upcoming industry transformations, thought-leading principles, strategies and practices for project implementation, and fine points and resources for in-depth product vetting to support high-performing, healthy interiors. Sustainable Residential Interiors takes readers through an integrated design process, demonstrating relevant principles and practices that apply to essentially any interiors project toward creating an environment that is healthy, high-performing, functional, sustainable, and beautiful. In doing so, it: Promotes critical thinking about health and environmental issues in the building industry Features checklists and current resources, providing a hands on practical approach Addresses in-depth, applicable third party certifications and details on relevant building rating systems Provides in-depth strategies and criteria for fixed interior finishes, fixtures, equipment and furnishings Demonstrates successful, relevant, diverse and inspiring case studies Delivers comprehensive tools and resources for researching and vetting products' composition and chemical make-up. Evaluates all aspects of a building's interior to identify and implement methods that: save energy and water; reduce Co2 emissions and waste; improve indoor air quality free of toxins; and are responsive to environmental impacts Encourages forward-thinking by featuring inspirational statements from mentors, peers, and industry leaders Urges interior designers to commit to designing safe, healthy environments that are integral to a professional code of ethics, which ensure the delivery of positive outcomes for the client and any building's future occupants |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Green Home Building Miki Cook, Doug Garrett, 2014-09-01 A comprehensive guide to building green on any budget. According to conventional wisdom, building a green home is an expensive endeavor. The standard approach treats green as an add-on, tacking premium products, finishes, and equipment onto a traditional home design. As a result, many green home projects end up over budget or fail to achieve their environmental and performance goals. Green Home Building explodes the myth that green homes have to cost more. Using proven methods based on applied building science, the authors show how to: Lower base construction costs to provide funding for high performance upgrades Achieve a net-zero energy home, including zero-ing water, waste, carbon, and associated costs within fifteen years Live affordably into the future, despite anticipated rising costs for fuel, water, materials, taxes, and health care This comprehensive guide to building green on any budget defines the strategies that maximize the return on green investments. Written for anyone who has ever been swayed by the argument that the price tag limits how green a home can be, Green Home Building is a must-read for builders, contractors, architects, designers, and homeowners. Miki Cook is a green building and sustainability consultant who has dedicated her career to educating contractors and the public on the strategies, methods, and benefits of green homes. Doug Garrett has trained thousands of homebuilders, architects, and sub-contractors to build energy-efficient homes using applied building science to improve comfort, durability, and healthfulness while meeting or exceeding the energy code. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: The New Net Zero Bill Maclay, 2014 The new threshold for green building is not just low energy, it's net-zero energy. In The New Net Zero, sustainable architect Bill Maclay charts the path for designers and builders interested in exploring green design's new-frontier net-zero-energy structures that produce as much energy as they consume and are carbon neutral. In a nation where traditional buildings use roughly 40 percent of the total fossil energy, the interest in net-zero building is growing enormously--among both designers interested in addressing climate change and consumers interested in energy efficiency and long-term savings. Maclay, an award-winning net-zero designer whose buildings have achieved high-performance goals at affordable costs, makes the case for a net-zero future; explains net-zero building metrics, integrated design practices, and renewable energy options; and shares his lessons learned on net-zero teambuilding. Designers and builders will find a wealth of state-of-the-art information on such considerations as air, water, and vapor barriers; embodied energy; residential and commercial net-zero standards; monitoring and commissioning; insulation options; costs; and more. The comprehensive overview is accompanied by several case studies, which include institutional buildings, commercial projects, and residences. Both new-building and renovation projects are covered in detail. The New Net Zero is geared toward professionals exploring net-zero design, but also suitable for nonprofessionals seeking ideas and strategies on net-zero options that are beautiful and renewably powered. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Green Transportation Basics Dan Chiras, 2010-09-01 Our automobile culture is devastating for the environment, but private passenger vehicles are unlikely to disappear from our roads anytime soon. Greener cars and fuels will be a necessity for many years to come. Green Transportation Basics is a guide to greening your personal driving habits by dramatically improving the efficiency of an existing vehicle using simple measures such as trip planning and regular maintenance to improve fuel economy. This handy guide also explores the most promising new green carsand trucks, including electric vehicles, hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and natural-gas cars. And it critically examines sustainable fuels includingethanol, biodiesel, straight vegetable oil, hydrogen, and biomethane, evaluating each according to a set of established criteria. Each green fuel source must: be socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable have a high net energy yield be clean, abundant, renewable, affordable. Don't let your dream of greening your transportation idle – Green Transportation Basics will guide you through the myths and misconceptions and provide clear options for the road to a more sustainable future. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: New Revolutions for a Small Planet Kingsley Dennis, 2012-01-01 According to sociologist Kingsley L. Dennis, our current economic woes are part of a larger shift in the way our global systems function. In his recent book, New Revolutions for a Small Planet (Watkins, November 2012), Dennis provides a strong dose of hope for young adults everywhere—especially those hit hardest by the current economic crisis. According to Dennis, we are witnessing the last throes of the industrial revolution model and mindset. The signs are all around us, he says, pointing to the rise of decentralized communications, the growth of NGOs and volunteerism, and rising social unrest against dysfunctional political systems. These are all harbingers of the next phase of our socio-cultural evolution. New Revolutions looks at what young people can expect in the years ahead: The birth of the ‘empathic mind,’ which is heralded by greater global interconnections, networked communication, and a participatory culture; A burgeoning sense of a dynamic, enchanting cosmos; and the increased urge to find personal meaning and fulfillment in life; Greater awareness of how new innovations will lead to creative new ways of thinking that will solve the world’s current problems; New systems and models that will emerge to eventually make the old models obsolete. In his conclusion, Dennis writes that Revolutions in communications and energy technology go together with our shifting forms of consciousness, and that life upon this planet is about to undergo a period of transition that will test our capacity to re-adapt and re-emerge on an unprecedented scale. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Wind Power Basics Dan Chiras, 2010-06-01 Wind energy is the fastest growing source of energy in the world, and by the year 2020 it is projected to supply at least 12 percent of global electrical demand. Wind Power Basics provides a clear understanding of wind and wind energy systems, including turbines, towers, inverters and batteries, site assessment, installation, and maintenance requirements. Whether you’re considering your own small-scale wind energy system or just want a straightforward, detailed introduction to the benefits and challenges of this rapidly emerging technology, Wind Power Basics is the guide you need. Dan Chiras is a respected educator and an internationally acclaimed author who has published more than twenty-five books on residential renewable energy and green building, including Power From the Wind. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: The New Carbon Architecture Bruce King, 2017-12-05 Soak up carbon into beautiful, healthy buildings that heal the climate Green buildings that slash energy use and carbon emissions are all the rage, but they aren't enough. The hidden culprit is embodied carbon — the carbon emitted when materials are mined, manufactured, and transported — comprising some 10% of global emissions. With the built environment doubling by 2030, buildings are a carbon juggernaut threatening to overwhelm the climate. It doesn't have to be this way. Like never before in history, buildings can become part of the climate solution. With biomimicry and innovation, we can pull huge amounts of carbon out of the atmosphere and lock it up as walls, roofs, foundations, and insulation. We can literally make buildings out of the sky with a massive positive impact. The New Carbon Architecture is a paradigm-shifting tour of the innovations in architecture and construction that are making this happen. Office towers built from advanced wood products; affordable, low-carbon concrete alternatives; plastic cleaned from the oceans and turned into building blocks. We can even grow insulation from mycelium. A tour de force by the leaders in the field, The New Carbon Architecture will fire the imagination of architects, engineers, builders, policy makers, and everyone else captivated by the possibility of architecture to heal the climate and produce safer, healthier, and more beautiful buildings. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Small is Necessary Anitra Nelson, 2018 Does small mean less? Not necessarily. In an era of housing crises, environmental unsustainability and social fragmentation, the need for more sociable, affordable and sustainable housing is vital. The answer? Shared living - from joint households to land-sharing, cohousing and ecovillages.Using successful examples from a range of countries, Anitra Nelson shows how 'eco-collaborative housing' - resident-driven low impact living with shared facilities and activities - can address the great social, economic and sustainability challenges that householders and capitalist societies face today. Sharing living spaces and facilities results in householders having more amenities and opportunities for neighbourly interaction.Small is Necessary places contemporary models of 'alternative' housing and living at centre stage arguing that they are outward-looking, culturally rich, with low ecological footprints and offer governance techniques for a more equitable and sustainable future. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Ten Technologies to Save the Planet Chris Goodall, 2010 We face the dual crises of peak oil and climate change. How will we meet future global energy demands? Goodall combines cutting-edge analysis and fascinating stories of the inventors, scientists, and entrepreneurs developing real-world technologies.--Back cover. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Progress for a Small Planet Barbara Ward, 2013-11-05 Three topics dominate discussions of the global environment: pollution; the consequences of the affluent running ever faster through finite resources; and the growing tensions between rich and poor as a third of humanity continues to live and die in desperate poverty. In this exceptional book Barbara Ward (co-author with Rene Dubos of the bestselling Only One Earth) refused to see these processes as inevitable. It describes new technologies for recycling waste, for energy, forgetting more or less linking them to ordinary people's working lives. It also suggests a strategy for meeting the basic needs of the disadvantaged, and shows how the vast inequalities between countries can be reduced. This perceptive survey of policies outlines a planetary bargain between the world's nations that would guarantee individual freedom from poverty and keep our shared biosphere in good working order. Originally published in 1988 |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Public Perception of Climate Change Bjoern Hagen, 2015-11-06 Despite the findings on global climate change presented by the scientific community, there remains a significant gap between its recommendations and the actions of the public and policy makers. So far scientists and the media have failed to successfully communicate the urgency of the climate change situation in such a way that long-term, comprehensive, and legally binding policy commitments are being made on the national and international level. This book examines the way the public processes information, how they perceive threats and other perceptual factors that have a significant effect on how and to what degree climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies are supported. Understanding public risk perception plays a vital role in communicating the challenges of global climate change. Using a diverse range of international case studies, this book explores the nature of public perceptions of climate change and identifies the perception factors which have a significant impact on the public’s willingness to support global climate change policies or commit to behavioral changes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve urban resiliency. The comparative study of social and cultural factors, beliefs, attitudes and trust provides an international overview of best practices regarding the design, implementation and generation of public support for climate change policies at a global level. Offering valuable insight into climate change and risk communication, the book should be of interest to students and scholars of environment studies, politics, urban planning, and media and cultural studies. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Put Your Life on a Diet Gregory Johnson, 2008 The author lives in a 140 square foot home that doesn't have many of the appliances usually taken for granted as necessary. For most of his commuting, he walks or uses a bicycle; his home is off the electrical and water grids. Most people would say this is an impossible way to live but he considers his transition to a simpler life has made him happier and healthier than he has ever been. After living in his compact home for several years, he has learned that, with the smaller living space, his freedom has expanded both in terms of finances and free time; bills and maintenance are so much lower than the financial and time costs of the average home. Living in a smaller space also limits purchases of 'things', thus saving money. He still uses around two thousand square feet of living space as before - the difference is that the other space is shared with others - his office, the gym, the laundromat, the restaurant, and other spaces - and that space is no longer his responsibility to maintain. So not only is he contributing to his community but his overheads and and responsibilities are significantly reduced--Cataloguer's note. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Hope for a Heated Planet Robert K Musil, 2008-12-02 Rejecting cries of gloom and doom, Hope for a Heated Planet shows how the fight against global warming can be won by the grassroots efforts of individuals. Robert K. Musil, who led the Nobel Peace Prize-winning organization Physicians for Social Responsibility, explains that a growing new climate movement can produce unprecedented change-in the economy, public health, and home-while saving the planet. Musil draws on personal experience and compelling data in this practical and rigorous analysis of the causes and cures for global warming. The book presents all the players in the most pressing challenge facing society today, from the massive fossil fuel lobby to the enlightened corporations that are joining the movement to go green. Musil thoroughly explains the tremendous potential of renewable energy sources-wind, solar, and biofuel-and the startling conclusions of experts who say society can do away entirely with fossil fuels. He tells readers about the engaged politicians, activists, religious groups, and students who are already working together against climate change. But the future depends, Musil insists, on what changes ordinary citizens make. Through personal choices and political engagement, he shows how readers can cut carbon emissions and create green communities where they live. With practical and realistic solutions, Hope for a Heated Planet inspires readers to be accountable and enables them to usher in an age of sustainability for future generations. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Ethics for a Small Planet Daniel C. Maguire, Larry L. Rasmussen, Reinhold Niebuhr Professor Emeritus of Social Ethics Larry L Rasmussen, 1998-01-01 A radical new look at the religious, economic, and political roots of terracide and how things can change for the better. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Consumer Guide to Home Energy Savings Alex Wilson, John Morrill, 1996 The updated 5th edition of Consumer Guide to Home Energy Savings identifies the most energy-efficient home appliances by brand name and model number. Reader-friendly and packed with illustrations, this handbook helps any homeowner save energy and money. Chapters include: -- energy use and the environment -- insulating and sealing air leaks -- new window options -- space heating -- cooling and air conditioning -- water heating -- refrigeration -- lighting...and much more This book is as compact and efficient as its subject matter. Its 274 pages are crammed with money-saving information. A directory of manufacturers helps the reader access purchase information on recommended appliances. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Matter Andi Diehn, 2018-03-01 Matter: Physical Science for Kids from the Picture Book Science series gets kids excited about science! What’s the matter? Everything is matter! Everything you can touch and hold is made up of matter—including you, your dog, and this book! Matter is stuff that you can weigh and that takes up space, which means pretty much everything in the world is made of matter. In Matter: Physical Science for Kids, kids ages 5 to 8 explore the definition of matter and the different states of matter, plus the stuff in our world that isn’t matter, such as sound and light! In this nonfiction picture book, children are introduced to physical science through detailed illustrations paired with a compelling narrative that uses fun language to convey familiar examples of real-world science connections. By recognizing the basic physics concept of matter and identifying the different ways matter appears in real life, kids develop a fundamental understanding of physical science and are impressed with the idea that science is a constant part of our lives and not limited to classrooms and laboratories. Simple vocabulary, detailed illustrations, easy science experiments, and a glossary all support exciting learning for kids ages 5 to 8. Perfect for beginner readers or as a read aloud nonfiction picture book! Part of a set of four books in a series called Picture Book Science that tackles different kinds of physical science (waves, forces, energy, and matter), Matter offers beautiful pictures and simple observations and explanations. Quick STEM activities such as weighing two balloons to test if air is matter help readers cross the bridge from conceptual to experiential learning and provide a foundation of knowledge that will prove invaluable as kids progress in their science education. Perfect for children who love to ask, “Why?” about the world around them, Matter satisfies curiosity while encouraging continual student-led learning. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Revolutionary Power Shalanda Baker, 2021-01-14 In September 2017, Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico, completely upending the energy grid of the small island. The nearly year-long power outage that followed vividly shows how the new climate reality intersects with race and access to energy. The island is home to brown and black US citizens who lack the political power of those living in the continental US. As the world continues to warm and storms like Maria become more commonplace, it is critical that we rethink our current energy system to enable reliable, locally produced, and locally controlled energy without replicating the current structures of power and control. In Revolutionary Power, Shalanda Baker arms those made most vulnerable by our current energy system with the tools they need to remake the system in the service of their humanity. She argues that people of color, poor people, and indigenous people must engage in the creation of the new energy system in order to upend the unequal power dynamics of the current system. Revolutionary Power is a playbook for the energy transformation complete with a step-by-step analysis of the key energy policy areas that are ripe for intervention. Baker tells the stories of those who have been left behind in our current system and those who are working to be architects of a more just system. She draws from her experience as an energy-justice advocate, a lawyer, and a queer woman of color to inspire activists working to build our new energy system. Climate change will force us to rethink the way we generate and distribute energy and regulate the system. But how much are we willing to change the system? This unique moment in history provides an unprecedented opening for a deeper transformation of the energy system, and thus, an opportunity to transform society. Revolutionary Power shows us how. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Renewable Energy David Elliott, 2020-08-24 The use of renewables is spreading rapidly. Over a quarter of global electricity is already generated from solar, wind, hydro and biomass energy. With costs falling significantly, renewables are booming, helping to avoid the major climate change risks associated with fossil fuel use in power stations, homes and vehicles. But can we get rid of all of these dirty energy sources – and nuclear power, as well – and deliver 100% of our energy from renewables? Or are renewable energy systems inherently unreliable and expensive, given the need to deal with their variability? In this timely analysis, leading energy expert David Elliott tackles these issues head on and asks to what extent renewables can deliver a technologically and economically viable energy future. Exploring both the progress and problems of renewables against a backdrop of rising energy demand, he argues that, on balance, they do seem to be living up to their promises. With renewables rapidly expanding across the globe, and China now leading the pack, a renewable future could really be on the horizon. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Prefabulous Small Houses Sheri Koones, 2016 Prefab home construction has come into its own. Prefabricated homes used to be considered inferior to houses built on site, but not anymore. In Prefabulous Small Houses, best-selling author Sheri Koones presents 32 stunning prefabricated homes from around North America. 250 beautiful photographs and floorplans show the amazing breadth of styles available to today's homeowners. Small is the new big. Everyone from Millennials looking to buy their first homes to Boomers trying to downsize have turned to small houses in recent years. These homes cost less to build, less to heat, and less to maintain. All of the houses in Prefabulous Small Houses range from 325 sq. ft. to 2,000 sq. ft. and showcase construction methods perfect for any climate. Building better, building greener. All of the houses featured here are highly energy efficient and are built with sustainability in mind. In eco-friendly prefab construction, local materials are used when possible, metals and wood are recycled, and houses are built with a conscious attempt to preserve the land on which they now stand. A foreword by actor and environmentalist Robert Redford speaks to the urgency with which we must act to combat climate change and how prefabricated small homes have a role to play in that challenge. Amazing diversity. The houses presented here cover a truly remarkable range of custom styles and exciting locales, including: The Lake Union Floating House in Washington, which is built right in the water with hybrid marine construction techniques The 325-sq.-ft Casita de Invierno in Florida, made of just 4 rooms with high ceilings The Westport Beach House in Connecticut, built using a panelized system on the ocean front And many more, coast to coast |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Feasible Planet - A Guide to More Sustainable Living Ken Kroes, 2017-11-05 Are you concerned about the state of our planet and hope that governments and corporations will find a sustainable way for us to live? If you do not think about it too hard, that may work, but will it? Left on their own, with drivers of popularity and profits, I am not too convinced that it will. The missing part of this equation is you and me. Individuals who believe that corporations and governments can do better. Individuals who believe that through action, we can buy a bit more time to develop and implement solutions to our critical issues. Did I hear a groan out there when you read the word ‘actions’? Do not worry! Most of the actions that I am referring to will not only help save the planet, but will benefit you right away through saving money, time, better health, and having a happier life in general. Sustainability goes beyond controlling our consumption and pollution. There are key social, political, and economic areas that need to be addressed as well, and there are several steps that individuals can take to help in these areas. For those of you who feel we could do more, this book is for you and is loaded with actionable activities, the reasons for doing them, and explores why we are not doing them already. Every journey starts with a first step. Hopefully this book will lead to those first sustainable steps and that will change the world. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Solar Power Your Home For Dummies Rik DeGunther, 2007-12-11 Want to take advantage of solar power in your home? Whether you’re looking to save on your energy costs by adding a few solar components or you want to build a solar-powered house from the ground up, Solar Power For Dummies takes the mystery out of this energy source and shows you how to put it to work for you! This friendly, hands-on guide is packed with tips for making your home more energy-efficient though solar power—and helping the planet at the same time. You’ll see how to survey your home to determine your current household energy efficiency and use, and evaluate where solar power would best benefit you. You’ll also calculate what the return on your investment will be before you make any decisions. Once you’ve decided on a project, you’ll see whether it’s best to hire a contractor or do it yourself. We leave no stone unturned—you’ll also discover how to: Choose and install your best solar system Handle small to large solar projects Heat and cool your house with solar energy Install exterior solar lighting Handle swimming pool, water heater, or ventilation solar projects Create greenhouses or solar rooms Build, buy, or sell a solar home Finance your solar investments Take advantage of tax rebates and incentives associated with solar power Avoid the worst solar mistakes Featuring ten of the easiest and cheapest do-it-yourself solar projects, Solar Power For Dummies is the fun and easy way to meet your energy needs with this clean power source! |
| energy free homes for a small planet: The Story of Climate Change Catherine Barr, Steve Williams, 2021-03-02 The Story of Climate Change introduces one of the most important issues facing our world today, and tells you what you can do to help make a change! Combining history with science, this book charts the changes in our Earth’s climate, from the beginnings of the planet and its atmosphere, to the Industrial revolution and the dawn of machinery. You'll learn all about the causes of climate change, such as factory farming and pollution, and the effects that climate change has on humans and animals across the world. As well as discovering the effects of global warming, you'll discover practical ways we can work together to solve it, from using renewable energy to swapping meat for vegetables in our diet. With fact-packed text by Catherine Barr and vibrant illustrations by Amy Husband and Mike Love, The Story of Climate Change will give you all the information you need, and will inspire you to do your part to fight the climate emergency! |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Work's Intimacy Melissa Gregg, 2013-04-23 This book provides a long-overdue account of online technology and its impact on the work and lifestyles of professional employees. It moves between the offices and homes of workers in the knew knowledge economy to provide intimate insight into the personal, family, and wider social tensions emerging in today’s rapidly changing work environment. Drawing on her extensive research, Gregg shows that new media technologies encourage and exacerbate an older tendency among salaried professionals to put work at the heart of daily concerns, often at the expense of other sources of intimacy and fulfillment. New media technologies from mobile phones to laptops and tablet computers, have been marketed as devices that give us the freedom to work where we want, when we want, but little attention has been paid to the consequences of this shift, which has seen work move out of the office and into cafés, trains, living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms. This professional presence bleed leads to work concerns impinging on the personal lives of employees in new and unforseen ways. This groundbreaking book explores how aspiring and established professionals each try to cope with the unprecedented intimacy of technologically-mediated work, and how its seductions seem poised to triumph over the few remaining relationships that may stand in its way. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Tiny Homes Unveiled Barrett Williams, ChatGPT, 2024-06-30 ## Tiny Homes Unveiled Transform Your Life in a Compact Space Dreaming of financial freedom, a simpler lifestyle, and a smaller environmental footprint? Tiny Homes Unveiled is your ultimate guide to embracing the tiny living revolution. This comprehensive eBook unpacks every aspect of compact living, from the undeniable benefits to the practicalities of design, construction, and sustainable living. ### Discover the Endless Benefits Unlock the reasons why compact living might be the best decision you ever make with insights into financial savings, reduced environmental impact, and a simplified lifestyle that enhances your quality of life. ### Explore Diverse Tiny Home Types From mobile tiny homes perfect for spontaneous travel to small houses on foundations and creatively converted spaces, find the style that suits your needs and aspirations. ### Master the Art of Tiny Home Design Learn the principles of maximizing space efficiency, selecting functional and multi-use furniture, and making aesthetic choices that make your tiny home feel spacious and welcoming. ### Choose the Perfect Location Navigate the complexities of choosing between urban and rural settings, understanding zoning laws, and ensuring access to essential utilities for a hassle-free living experience. ### Plan with Precision Define your needs, create thoughtful blueprints, and manage your budget effectively with detailed sections on planning and financing your tiny dwelling. ### Build It Right Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or prefer to hire professionals, get to grips with building materials, construction methods, and essential insulation and weatherproofing techniques. ### Sustain and Thrive Equip your tiny home with plumbing, electrical systems, and heating solutions, while embracing renewable energy sources and eco-friendly materials. ### Optimize Space and Organization Discover innovative storage solutions, organizational tools, and decluttering techniques to maintain a serene and tidy living environment. ### Design a Beautiful Interior Perfect your tiny home's interior with strategic color choices, lighting tricks, and personalized touches that reflect your unique style. ### Create an Inspiring Outdoor Space Extend your living area with small gardens, vertical landscaping, and cozy outdoor spaces that enhance your overall living experience. ### Embrace Mobility and Travel For those with a traveler's heart, master the logistics of towing, planning a nomadic lifestyle, and staying connected on the road. ### Overcome Challenges Tackle issues like limited space, privacy concerns, and social stigmas with practical solutions and expert advice. ### Learn from Real-Life Case Studies Get inspired by success stories of families, individuals, and innovative communities who have made tiny living their reality. ### Look to the Future Stay ahead of trends with insights into technological advancements, the growing tiny home movement, and predictions on the future of compact living. Equip yourself with the knowledge, tips, and inspiration you need to make your tiny home dreams come true. Order Tiny Homes Unveiled today and take the first step towards a more liberated, intentional, and fulfilling lifestyle. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Clean Protein Kathy Freston, Bruce Friedrich, 2018-01-02 Join the Clean Protein revolution and lose weight, feel stronger, and live longer. Food and wellness experts Kathy Freston and Bruce Friedrich have spent years researching the future of protein. They've talked to the food pioneers and the nutrition scientists, and now they've distilled what they've learned into a strength-building plan poised to reshape your body and change your world. Complete with delicious recipes and a detailed guide to food planning, Clean Protein explains everything you need to know in order to get lean, gain energy, and stay mentally sharp. You'll finally understand in simple terms why protein is essential, how much you should get, and where to find the best sources of it. Clean Protein is a powerful solution to excess weight and chronic health issues, and it's a cultural revolution that will be talked about for decades. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Little Inventors Go Green!: Inventing for a Better Planet Dominic Wilcox, Katherine Mengardon, 2020-05-28 Find out about banana-eating T-rex, canvas-spinning spiders, astounding trees and many more cool facts about nature. Draw your own inventions inspired by children just like you |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Our House Is on Fire Jeanette Winter, 2019-09-24 Learn the story of TIME PERSON OF THE YEAR Greta Thunberg, the sixteen-year-old climate activist who has sparked a worldwide student movent and is demanding action from world leaders who refuse to address climate change—from acclaimed picture book creator Jeanette Winter. I don’t want you to be hopeful. I want you to panic…I want you to act as if our house is on fire. Because it is. When she was fifteen years old, Greta Thunberg’s teacher explained to her class that our climate is changing—the earth is getting warmer, the polar ice caps are melting, and life on earth is threatened. Greta was devastated. What could she do? If the grown-ups weren’t doing enough to save the planet, Greta would have to demand change herself. So she went on strike, skipping school every Friday to sit outside of the Swedish Parliament building with a sign that read “School Strike for Climate.” At first, Greta was the only one. But gradually, more and more students joined her, until her lone protest had sparked a worldwide student movement for action on climate change. Now, a year later, Greta is speaking to audiences of world leaders at important meetings like the United Nations Climate Conference and the World Economic Forum. She is leading the conversation on climate change and sparking worldwide conversation on how to save our planet. Greta is showing everyone that even the smallest person can make a big difference, and this picture book informs and inspires young readers who are beginning to learn about the world around them. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Never Too Small Joe Beath, Elizabeth Price, 2023-04-19 Joel Beath and Elizabeth Price explore this question drawing inspiration from a diverse collection of apartment designs, all smaller than 50m2/540ft2. Through the lens of five small-footprint design principles and drawing on architectural images and detailed floor plans, the authors examine how architects and designers are reimagining small space living. Full of inspiration we can each apply to our own spaces, this is a book that offers hope and inspiration for a future of our cities and their citizens in which sustainability and style, comfort and affordability can co-exist. Never Too Small proves living better doesn’t have to mean living larger. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: M Train Patti Smith, 2015-10-06 From the National Book Award-winning author of Just Kids: an unforgettable odyssey into the mind of this legendary artist, told through the prism of cafés and haunts she has visited and worked in around the world. M Train is a journey through seventeen stations. It begins in the tiny Greenwich Village café where Smith goes every morning for black coffee, ruminates on the world as it is and the world as it was, and writes in her notebook. We then travel, through prose that shifts fluidly between dreams and reality, past and present, across a landscape of creative aspirations and inspirations: from Frida Kahlo's Casa Azul in Mexico, to a meeting of an Arctic explorer's society in Berlin; from the ramshackle seaside bungalow in New York's Far Rockaway that Smith buys just before Hurricane Sandy hits, to the graves of Genet, Plath, Rimbaud and Mishima. Woven throughout are reflections on the writer's craft and on artistic creation, alongside signature memories, including of her life in Michigan with her husband, guitarist Fred Sonic Smith, whose untimely death was an irremediable loss. For it is loss, as well as the consolation we might salvage from it, that lies at the heart of this exquisitely told memoir, one augmented by stunning black-and-white Polaroids taken by Smith herself. M Train is a meditation on endings and on beginnings: a poetic tour de force by one of the most brilliant, multi-platform artists at work today. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Essential Building Science Jacob Deva Racusin, 2017 Poor heat and moisture detailing are enemies of durability, comfort and efficiency in house design. Essential Building Science provides a visual, accessible introduction to the fundamentals of building physics and the skills to develop thermal and moisture strategies for creating better new buildings and improving old ones. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Nineteen eighty-four George Orwell, 2022-11-22 This is a dystopian social science fiction novel and morality tale. The novel is set in the year 1984, a fictional future in which most of the world has been destroyed by unending war, constant government monitoring, historical revisionism, and propaganda. The totalitarian superstate Oceania, ruled by the Party and known as Airstrip One, now includes Great Britain as a province. The Party uses the Thought Police to repress individuality and critical thought. Big Brother, the tyrannical ruler of Oceania, enjoys a strong personality cult that was created by the party's overzealous brainwashing methods. Winston Smith, the main character, is a hard-working and skilled member of the Ministry of Truth's Outer Party who secretly despises the Party and harbors rebellious fantasies. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: One Planet Living Paul King, Pooran Desai, 2006-06 One Planet Livingis about the choices and challenges we all face if we are to enjoy a high quality of life within the resources of our planet. We are consuming resources at a faster rate than the planet can replenish them. Few people actually want to live unsustainably but it is easy to make decisions that have damaging, unsustainable consequences and difficult to choose more sustainable options. Based on ten guiding principles which address key human needs, this little book suggests ingenious, easy and affordable ways in which you can start adopting One Planet Living. |
| energy free homes for a small planet: Downsize Sheri Koones, 2019 The 25 small houses presented in Downsize are owned by people who have made a conscious decision to downsize from a larger home to a smaller home--or who just decided to build small in the first place. Some of the houses are new (site-built or prefab), others are remodels. All are 2,000 sq. ft. or less. The featured houses show how to use space efficiently through such strategies as: - creative storage space - multi-purpose rooms - pocket and barn doors - integrating smaller appliances-- |
| energy free homes for a small planet: The Greened House Effect Jeff Wilson, 2013 Describes how to give residential buildings a Deep Energy Retrofit, a whole-home makeover that will make any home cleaner, greener, more comfortable, and healthier. |
FPL | Homepage
Florida Power & Light Company serves more customers and sells more power than any other utility, providing clean, affordable, reliable electricity to more than 5.9 million accounts, or more …
The Energy Expo
The Energy Expo takes place next August 20 & 21, 2025 in warm Ft. Lauderdale, showcasing technologies, products and know-how in the SOLAR | ENERGY STORAGE | ENERGY …
Energy - Wikipedia
Energy (from Ancient Greek ἐνέργεια (enérgeia) 'activity') is the quantitative property that is transferred to a body or to a physical system, recognizable in the performance of work and in …
Energy | Definition, Types, Examples, & Facts | Britannica
Jun 6, 2025 · Energy is the capacity for doing work. It may exist in potential, kinetic, thermal, helectrical, chemical, nuclear, or other forms. What is the unit of measurement for energy? In …
U.S Energy Atlas with total energy layers - U.S. Energy …
In 2022, Florida consumed less energy per capita than all but six other states, but it was the third-largest energy-consuming state. Overall, Florida uses almost eight times as much energy as it …
Florida State Energy Profile - U.S. Energy Information …
May 15, 2025 · In 2022, Florida consumed less energy per capita than all but six other states, but it was the third-largest energy-consuming state. Overall, Florida uses almost eight times as …
Solar Efficiency - Miami-Dade County
Consistent access to reliable energy in Miami-Dade County is critical to power buildings, equipment and vehicles that we depend upon every day.
Enabling American Energy Dominance | NextEra Energy
For the last century, we’ve been a trusted partner in delivering reliable, dependable energy solutions that power lives and communities, even in the most challenging times. NextEra …
Miami, FL Electricity Generation Summary
View all available electricity data in Miami, FL. View monthly electricity generation, the breakdown by power source, details on the 8 power plants in Miami, FL, and more.
Navigating the future of sustainable energy in Miami
Apr 16, 2024 · Current research includes the engineering of sustainable batteries, the exploration of advanced nanomaterials for solar energy, and the development of smart HVAC systems for …
FPL | Homepage
Florida Power & Light Company serves more customers and sells more power than any other utility, providing clean, affordable, reliable electricity to more than 5.9 million accounts, or more …
The Energy Expo
The Energy Expo takes place next August 20 & 21, 2025 in warm Ft. Lauderdale, showcasing technologies, products and know-how in the SOLAR | ENERGY STORAGE | ENERGY …
Energy - Wikipedia
Energy (from Ancient Greek ἐνέργεια (enérgeia) 'activity') is the quantitative property that is transferred to a body or to a physical system, recognizable in the performance of work and in …
Energy | Definition, Types, Examples, & Facts | Britannica
Jun 6, 2025 · Energy is the capacity for doing work. It may exist in potential, kinetic, thermal, helectrical, chemical, nuclear, or other forms. What is the unit of measurement for energy? In …
U.S Energy Atlas with total energy layers - U.S. Energy …
In 2022, Florida consumed less energy per capita than all but six other states, but it was the third-largest energy-consuming state. Overall, Florida uses almost eight times as much energy as it …
Florida State Energy Profile - U.S. Energy Information …
May 15, 2025 · In 2022, Florida consumed less energy per capita than all but six other states, but it was the third-largest energy-consuming state. Overall, Florida uses almost eight times as …
Solar Efficiency - Miami-Dade County
Consistent access to reliable energy in Miami-Dade County is critical to power buildings, equipment and vehicles that we depend upon every day.
Enabling American Energy Dominance | NextEra Energy
For the last century, we’ve been a trusted partner in delivering reliable, dependable energy solutions that power lives and communities, even in the most challenging times. NextEra …
Miami, FL Electricity Generation Summary
View all available electricity data in Miami, FL. View monthly electricity generation, the breakdown by power source, details on the 8 power plants in Miami, FL, and more.
Navigating the future of sustainable energy in Miami
Apr 16, 2024 · Current research includes the engineering of sustainable batteries, the exploration of advanced nanomaterials for solar energy, and the development of smart HVAC systems for …
