Smart Power An Urban Guide To Renewable energy and efficiency

Concern over energy supply, costs and environmental problems are not limited to those prepared to venture into the countryside to an off-grid life. Urban people a__ now the vast majority in the western world a__ share the same fear about what lies ahead. Yet the average North American family will spend over one quarter million after-tax dollars on energy in a lifetime. The difference between North American and European energy consumption is waste and inefficiency - or, simply, wasted money. $mart Powershows homeowners that using less energy or adopting renewable-energy technologies is not about making drastic lifestyle sacrifices, nor is it expensive. In fact, energy efficiency often improves lifestyle through lower operating costs, a more comfortable environment, and increased disposable income. $mart Power shows that our concern for first cost when purchasing appliances and consumer goods is robbing us blind. For example, keeping a 15-year-old fridge rather than replacing it will actually cost 4-5 times more than the new model because of wasted energy costs. This richly illustrated book includes chapters on: a_? Energy efficiency a_? Space heating and cooling a_? Community power a_? Energy efficient transportation a_? Photovoltaics, wind and biofuels a_? Batteries, voltage regulation and inverters a_? Solar water heating and backup power William Kemp is VP Engineering of Powerbase Automation Systems Inc. and a consulting electronics/software designer who develops control systems for low environmental impact hydroelectric utilities worldwide. He is a sustainable living and clean energy advocate working in renewable energy heating, energy efficiency, photovoltaic, microhydro and wind electric systemsKemp, William H. is the author of 'Smart Power An Urban Guide To Renewable energy and efficiency', published 2004 under ISBN 9780973323313 and ISBN 0973323310.