Hobbies And Interests
Solar
There are many projects for homes or businesses that incorporate solar energy. The addition of solar panels to buildings can cut down on electricity usage as well as costs. Storage of energy allows the panels to be a viable option even on cloudy days. Solar walls or Trombe Walls heat spaces without solar panels by taking in sunlight through an outside wall. A solar oven for cooking is easy to construct and operate.
Wind
Wind is another renewable resource that creates energy. Its lack of availability at all times does not allow it to become an exclusive electrical source. Before you decide on a project involving this resource, consider the wind speed of your area to ensure there is enough velocity to make the project feasible. Windmills and turbines can be built from scratch as well as with the assistance of prefabricated kits. For example, you can purchase a turbine then craft blades from wood, plastic cardboard or cardstock.
Water
The use of water to provide energy requires a nearby water source such as a stream. Several systems are micro hydro electric. Off-grid battery-based systems allow for other renewable resources. Batteries charge as the water flows. In a system without batteries, energy diverts to prevent overloading of the generator. The lack of batteries is good for areas where a water source has a strong current. This system also incorporates a turbine. Necessary materials for any micro hydro electric system include a kilowatt-hour meter, main DC disconnect, AC breaker panel and battery bank.
Biofuels
Easy-to-find ingredients around the home such as vegetable oils create biofuels. For example, corn produces ethanol, and manure makes methane. One of the ways to produce methane is through biogas digestors, which take waste from crops, food and livestock to make gas for heating or cooking. Kits help to convert automobiles to accept this type of fuel source. Biodiesel may become unstable in colder temperatures, so any vehicle using the fuel or containers of the fuel itself must be kept in heated areas. Classes are available that teach how to create biofuels. Subjects of the classes cover basics, titration, testing, making a batch and quality checks.