Mile Hi SolarEfficiency
Efficiency is one of the first things to consider when going solar. The easiest way to reduce the cost of a solar system (PV or solar thermal) is to reduce the amount of energy it needs to collect.
There are alot of easy ways to start. Compact flourescent lightbulbs, weather stripping, and insulation are usually the first ones. In many older houses, new windows can go along ways towards reducing heating bills, and increasing comfort.
Appliances (computers, TV's, kitchen appliances) have increased efficiency alot in the past 5 years. In many cases, it can make sense financially to replace an old computer with a new laptop, or an old TV with a new flatscreen to actually reduce energy consumption. The reduction in electrical demand and resulting smaller sized PV system needed, can actually outweigh the added costs of the new appliances. Some of the new hot tubs can use as little as 150kWh per month (a quarter of what many older units use), so you can go solar without having to give up your luxuries.
There are alot of easy ways to start. Compact flourescent lightbulbs, weather stripping, and insulation are usually the first ones. In many older houses, new windows can go along ways towards reducing heating bills, and increasing comfort.
Appliances (computers, TV's, kitchen appliances) have increased efficiency alot in the past 5 years. In many cases, it can make sense financially to replace an old computer with a new laptop, or an old TV with a new flatscreen to actually reduce energy consumption. The reduction in electrical demand and resulting smaller sized PV system needed, can actually outweigh the added costs of the new appliances. Some of the new hot tubs can use as little as 150kWh per month (a quarter of what many older units use), so you can go solar without having to give up your luxuries.
