Wind or Solar? Which Renewable Energy is Right for You?

Let's say you already purchase green power from your power company, but you want to go one step further and start generating renewable electricity yourself. First off, let me shake your hand. I can now add you to my list of personal heroes.

But where do you start? How do you know what's best for your area and home?

1. Try the MyWatts Estimator
The MyWatts Estimator is a tool offered by ChooseRenewables.com that will let you plug in your address, and pop out a recommendation on the wind and sun situation in your area. It will also let you know whether there are any wind and sun incentives available in your region.

Unfortunately for me, both solar and wind are poor in my area, though solar is the slightly more viable option.

2. If you are considering Solar:

• Go to FindSolar.com to begin to understand what size and scope of solar system you'll need to complement your current energy usage. You can also leverage them as a starting point to find a contractor.
• The US Department of Energy has a checklist to help you figure out what solar system will work for you, and important information on permits.

3. If you are considering Wind:

• Spend some time in the Small Wind Toolbox from the American Wind Association. It will walk you through some of the steps and considerations for implementing wind in your home.
• The US Department of Energy has a checklist to help you figure out what wind system will work for you, and important information on installation and permits. Their Wind Powering America program also offers per-state guidelines and support groups to help you decide on how to proceed with wind.

4. Make sure you understand your power company's policy on Net Metering.
When you install your system, you'll have two options: to be off the grid, or to be on the grid. If you stay on the grid for those cloudy or windless days, you'll probably have the option to participate in a Net Metering program. This means that you can sell any excess power that you generate back to the power company in some shape or form. Give your power company a call and see how it works in your area.