Energy Independence: Your Everyday Guide To Reducing Fuel Consumption

by Christine Woodside

Overview

Energy Independence is the essential guide to the most viable and affordable alternative energy solutions for the everyday consumer—including solar panels, wind generators, hydrogen fuel cells, wood, hydro-electric, geothermal heat pumps, and more. For all those seeking either to supplement their traditional fuel-burning furnace or to revamp their home, this book has what they need to get started. They'll learn about the most progressive and advanced options as well as tried and true energy conservation techniques. They'll learn how much each method costs, and how quickly they will recoup any investment.

Also including a chapter on alternative-fuel cars, this book has been revised and updated with the most recent stats, technology, costs, and advice. It is a must for anyone—urbanite, suburbanite, or rural dweller—who relies on traditional oil-burning sources but has decided it's high time to be proactive both about cutting fuel costs and achieving freedom from fossil fuel dependence.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781599215280
Publisher:	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
Publication date:	12/16/2008
Pages:	208
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.90(d)

About the Author

Christine Woodside is an environmental reporter and award-winning journalist. Her work has appeared in the New York Times, Washington Post, Woman's Day,Christian Science Monitor, and Hartford Courant.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Why You Need This Book ix

1 The Situation Today: Oil Still Rules 1

2 Demystifying Solar Energy 21

3 Wind Generators at Home 44

4 Other Technologies: Fuel Cells, Biodiesel Fuel, and Geothermal Heat Pumps 55

5 Heating with Wood 70

6 Harnessing a Backyard Stream: Micro-Hydroelectric Systems 83

7 Alternative Cars 92

8 Conservation: Not a New Idea 104

9 Conservation Tips 118

10 An Appliance Manifesto 141

Appendix Where to Learn More 151

Notes 166

Index 180

About the Author 190

Editorial Reviews

Those concerned or curious about energy conservation or looking to save a buck or two by changing wasteful habits should pick up this book.”— Newsday
 

“Here’s a suggestion: spend the equivalent of about five gallons and educate yourself about alternative power sources and doable ways to save energy. …Woodside’s book is one investment that should pay off quickly.”— Columbia Daily Tribune

From the Publisher