We constantly hear time and time again from the media, government, industry and community that we need to be more green or that we need to think more about the environment and the impact we’re having on it. Most of the time we’d genuinely like to do our part, however when we realize the certain amount of sacrifice that comes from living a slightly greener life, we suddenly find a thousand reasons not to.

As an example, renewable energy technology can be expensive to install, especially with the initial start up cost running anywhere from $5,000 to $6,000 US for professional installation and that’s the lower end of the price spectrum. Not a figure most people have floating around in the bank in these current economic times.

There are however alternatives available out there that enable you to bypass the tradesmen and the expensive costs of hiring others to do the job for you. Instead of the usual 4 to 5 figure start up expenses associated with installing your own solar panels you can set yours up for around $200.

This applies if you choose to build a wind generator too. If you live in areas with high wind, then this could be a viable option for you.

Earth 4 Energy is fast becoming a popular solution for those wanting to go solo, energy-wise, minus the hefty fees. More people than ever before are turning their interests to this alternative to their main energy provider.

There’s no better time to start especially in these challenging times, who couldn’t do with a few more dollars in their pocket?
In fact most people make back the cost of their DIY solar panel and wind turbine within the first year. This means that every year after is pure profit in the pocket and the fact that there are no more ongoing costs after initial setup makes it very attractive. You’re also not at the mercy of price hikes when demand is high.

This independent, renewable energy is catching on as people are realizing that going green has huge benefits.
Not only are there advantages for going off the main grid but it gives such independence to know that as the growing stress on our energy continues with the amount of demand we subject it to, power failures are unavoidable. There will simply be too many people and not enough energy to go around.

Living off the main grid provides a peace of mind knowing that you’re not subjected to the inconveniences that mainstream is.

Don’t think you have to go completely independent straight off the bat. Any effort counts, even replacing a quarter or a third of your energy requirements with natural, alternative sources can add up to big savings over the years while taking pressure off the main energy supply.

It also reduces your carbon footprint because no longer, in terms of your home energy use are you putting any demands on infrastructure and the amount of CO2 emission directly related to your activities is greatly reduced.

For example, with solar energy or “Photovoltaic” systems they are able to produce clean, renewable power without no CO2 emissions. This means that you reduce your carbon footprint by approximately 7.5 tonnes of CO2 (that you would have otherwise produced) over a 30 year period time. Imagine if everyone did that we would be able to slow the rate of global warming in a big way.

Another great benefit of being energy independent is that not only can you save money on your power bill but if you create an excess you have the added advantage of being able to sell it back to the power companies.

This has a two-fold purpose:
1. It gives you an opportunity to earn extra money
2. By selling this energy back to the power companies you are in effect
“sharing” your excess energy with others. Energy that did not have to be created or generated by the company, reducing the amount of emissions normally required to produce it.
This makes going independent from the grid very appealing, especially for those who are money conscious.
It’s a big decision because it is effectively a lifestyle choice but one with several long term benefits.

If you want to save money and know that you are doing your bit for the environment, then independent, sustainable energy might be for you.

Click here to visit earth4energy’s website to learn more about using wind and solar power to reduce your utility bills and help the environment.