Do you know how long a train car completely full of coal will run the average size electricity generating plant? The answer is an astonding 20 minutes a coal car. A coal car holds from 3,800 to 4,400 cubic feet of coal.

The U.S. has 620 electricity generating plants as of Jan. 2007. Electrical demand is at an all time high and climbing. The cost of electricity has climbed dramatically over the years.

The electrical industry powers more than 175 million computers and the electrical needs of over 200 million cell phones. Computers consume 13% of the total electricity used. Electrical consumption is expected to grow by 45% by 2030. Americans homes have become much bigger over the years which have contributed to the increased demand.

Did you know that Solar panels & wind generators produce only 0.2% of the energy used by Americans? Have you ever thought of getting off the electrical grid for good, altogether or for the most part? All you need is knowledge of wind generating or solar panels.

There are people building their own solar panels & wind generators for around 200 dollars. All that is required is the right knowledge and some extra time. The components are easily available in your area for much less than people think.

The useful life of a wind generator is about 30 years. Studies have shown that the noise from a residential wind generator is about the same as a common refrigerator. Wind generators have a cut-in speed of around 7 miles an hour of wind. Some will require a little less wind to produce electricity.

Many states have rebate or tax credit programs as an incentive to move ahead with alternative energy. Credits are also available from the federal government. If you are within 2 miles of an airport there will likely be a height restriction on the tower. Towers that are less than 200 feet high do not require lights on them.

Solar panels that are built at home or purchased are often used in combination with a wind generator. Then you are covered for the days that there is not enough wind but plenty of sunshine is available to produce the much needed electricity. If the restrictions in your area forbid the use of a wind generator then you could use a solar panel by it self to cut the electric bill down. All you need to do is get the knowledge, set aside some time, and get started saving money.

Tags: Wind Energy