Eco Friendly Home Power Generation
Home power generation, otherwise known as micro-generation, refers to the stand alone generation of low carbon heat, which is kinder to the environment and ensures reliable energy supplies to individual homes. Some examples of available home power generation, which will be discussed further in this article, include the following: solar energy, small wind turbine energy, and biomass energy.
Solar energy, which is created with home power generation using a solar powered generator, uses the sun's energy to create electricity to run appliances and lighting. A solar power generator generally uses solar cells placed on the roof. These cells are made up of layers of semi conducting material. An electric field is created when the sun shines on the layers of the cells, causing electricity to flow. The stronger the sun, the more electricity is produced. The up side to this kind of electricity generation is that no greenhouse gases are released. Solar panels are easy to obtain and not at all obtrusive as they are placed on the roof. Panels covering 10-15 square metres could produce about a third of an average family's electricity - saving on standard electricity costs. The downside is that it is pricey to install (around $6,000- $13,000 per kWp installed, with most domestic systems usually between 1.5 and 2 kWp so you are looking at between $9,000 at the lower end and $25,000 at the more expensive end).
Small wind turbines, or wind power generators, are not as common for domestic use because – as with normal wind farms - the turbines work best at height as wind speed is higher so space is needed - no obstructions from other buildings and trees etc. Most people are familiar with the sight of a wind farm, but you can also generate energy at home on a smaller scale with home wind power kits. Electricity is produced by the wind turning the turbines blades, which then turns a rotor. At present wind turbines for homes are not that common but it is predicted that they should be developed within the next few years. This kind of power generation is cheaper than solar energy, it is cleaner and if wind turbines are set up in the right areas there should be no shortage of wind, especially in coastal areas. However, the wind turbines can make a negative visual impact considered to be eyesores and they require planning permission from local authority.
The final home power generation to be discussed is Biomass. Also referred to as Bio energy or natural gas home generators, Biomass refers to the burning of organic matter, e.g. plants, agricultural waste to make energy or heat. It is a comparatively clean energy, as the carbon dioxide released during the burning is balanced out by the amount absorbed during the fuel's production. Biomass is not really that practical for the average town or city household but if you are able to accommodate the equipment, biomass does have its benefits.
