Goal For The Green

You probably already know that installing solar panels is one of the best ways to make your home more energy efficient and environmentally friendly, but did you also know that you could wind up saving money in the process?

English: On 140 acres of unused land on Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., 70,000 solar panels are part of a solar photovoltaic array that will generate 15 megawatts of solar power for the base. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The fact that solar can save homeowners money is driving increased interest on the part of consumers. Here are some surprising Facts on Who Goes Solar? According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, the U.S. residential solar market grew nearly 62%  (see chart) last year and isn’t expected to slow down any in 2013.

Are You ready to go solar at your home or business? Perhaps you didn’t know that the typical solar customer is changing, too. While solar panel buyers ten years ago focused on environmental benefits, today’s solar consumer is looking at other factors. Many homeowners today are buying solar for the same reason they’re buying hybrids: It saves money, and the choice to go with solar powered electricity these days just makes sense.

If you’ve been paying electrical bills for more than a handful of years, you are already well aware of the fact that those bills continue to increase every year and usually consume a large chunk of your monthly expenses.

The cost of solar panels has declined dramatically in recent years. According to Rhone Resch, president and chief executive of the Solar Energy Industries Association, the prices of solar panels decreased 60% last year, making it a more affordable option for many homeowners to consider.

Federal tax credits for solar installations have helped,too. Solar systems installed from Jan. 1, 2009 to Dec. 31, 2016 can get a tax credit of 30% off the cost. State and local incentives can even further reduce the cost of installing solar panels.

When calculating the cost of solar panels, homeowners should consider how much they’ll save on utility bills. Beware of solar installers though, that are overly aggressive in estimating how much you’ll save. Remember, any projection of utility bill savings is an estimate at best; it’s impossible to know how electric rates will fluctuate or how your home energy usage will change.

It’s unclear whether low solar panel prices are here to stay, but one thing is certain: There’s never been a better time to go solar. Now’s the right time to act on this current information. You can feel good about looking into your options for going solar and saving green.

About the Author: Ryan McNeill is president of Renewable Energy Corporation, which helps homeowners make the transition to solar power homes.

Are you thinking about your next vehicle purchase? There are so many things to consider like gas mileage, comfort, safety, longevity, and perhaps the most important thing is the cost of ownership, for a vehicle that delivers all of these must haves.

Well, you can rest assured that Toyota measures up, FANTASTICALLY well against the auto industry’s other best selling models.

Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Toyota has developed a great cost of car comparison tool to help you determine how well they stack up by comparison to other manufacturers.

When at the site, just choose a Toyota model that you like. Then, you will be taken to a page that features all the details on that particular model,and it will also let you choose other comparable models from other manufacturers to help you determine the best car choice for you to purchase.

According to IntelliChoice and Kelly Blue Book Toyota has the Best Resale Value of all brands for 2013, although a vehicle’s projected resale value (price quote)is specific to the 2013 model year, at this time.

Toyota has always received high marks in safety and in 2013, Toyota has more IIHS Top Safety Picks than any other brand.

“Toyota is the most fuel-efficient full-line automotive manufacturer.” Based on NHTSA Final Industry MY10 CAFE data for Toyota Motor Sales.

Another plus is, every new Toyota comes with ToyotaCare, a complimentary 2 year maintenance program that includes roadside assistance.

Whatever your choice for your next vehicle, Toyota makes it easy to decide with their cost comparison tool. Rest assured, you will always get top notch customer service and attention at any Toyota dealership, making your customer experience and satisfaction an added bonus. Toyota is always a great choice.

Living with the earth in mind doesn’t have to take a lot of money, years or even effort. In order to live a greener lifestyle in just two weeks, try these inexpensive earth-saving tips:

Reusable Shopping Bags

Paper or plastic? Choose neither — when running errands or grocery shopping, pack your own reusable bags. A cotton-mesh tote — which cost about $5-$20 — reduces waste, carries more and can be used over and over.

A Litter-less Lunch

Even if, it’s just once a week, pack your lunch (and not in a brown bag). Use reusable containers and plan on washing plastic utensils or packing your own silverware.

Eco-friendly Cleaning Products

A gallon of off-brand distilled white vinegar costs about $2-$5 and when diluted with water can cut through grease and clean messes just like other household cleaners. It’s non-toxic, anti-bacterial and effective at cleaning your house without chemicals.

No More Paper Towels

Stop buying paper towels and instead use washable rags to clean up messes around the house. Cut old T-shirts or buy a package of 10 heavy-duty wash cloths at the dollar store.

Switch to CFLs

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, fluorescent light bulbs use less energy, reduce light bulb changes and lower greenhouse emissions. In turn, this saves money and of course the environment.

Rethink the Thermostat

Instead of turning down the air conditioner to mediate the temperature in your home. Focus on variables in the room, such as air ventilation and natural lighting. Use roller shades that are energy efficient and made out of eco-friendly materials to block harsh rays that could be making you and the room feel hotter.

Use a Mug

Drink your coffee out of a mug instead of a paper cup. Try a reusable water bottle instead of buying and tossing plastic bottles.

Wash Clothes in Cold Water

Always wash clothes in cold water. According to EnergyStar.gov, 90 percent of the energy used to operate a washing machine goes to heating the water.

Recycle Electronics

Learn what can be recycled and stop tossing items that could be reused. For example, Best Buy recycles computers, print cartridges, radios, washing machines and other electronics and appliances. Some stores will even pick up items, so you don’t have to drop them off.

Buy Bulk

Stop buying individually packaged items at the grocery store and instead buy in bulk to save production and packaging waste.

Shorter Showers

Take a waterproof timer with you in the shower so you aren’t zoning out and taking too long. Invest in a low-flow shower head to save 2,900 gallons of water a year, according to the EPA.gov.

Line Dry When Possible

Rather than throwing your laundry in the dryer, hang them on the line to dry. If you don’t have a backyard, open your shower curtain and use hangers.

Lighten the Load

Remove unnecessary heavy items from your trunk to save gas. According to FuelEconomy.gov, an extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could be reducing your MPG by two percent.

Kill Energy Vampires

Use power strips to turn off unused appliances and stop wasting standby power easily. According to EnergyStar.gov, the average U.S. household spends $100 a year to power devices while they are turned off.

Borrow Instead of Buy

Instead of buying a New York Bestseller or the latest comedy on DVD, borrow it from the local library. After reading or watching your favorite books and videos, donate them to the library or a nearby shelter, thrift shop or school.