Solar In the Home-It's Approaching Mainstream
Solar Night Industries featured in Yahoo Real Estate Story (January 2008): Solar in the Home-It's Approaching Mainstream
Press Release from Solar Night Industries
1.14.2008-Solar Night Industries (PINKSHEETS: SLND) to host January Training Event for Installers
in St. Louis, MO. The hallmark of the program and training will be to
demonstrate how to use the integrated tools for streamlining the
process from lead generation to installation. During the session, SNI
will collaborate with the Advanced Partners and provide training on how
to use the Modern Energy Plan to build their business model, how to use
the SNI advanced partner tools and lead management programs.See Full Press Release at Investor Relation Home.
SHAREHOLDERS: Register Now For Solar Night Investor Relations Packet & Newsletter Updates
Press Release from Solar Night Industries
1.4.2008-Solar Night Industries (PINKSHEETS: SLND), a renewable energy company
formed to accelerate the adoption of Modern Energy Solutions,
announced that Tim Corbet, CEO of the Company, was recently a
participant and presenter at the Fall 2007 Department of Commerce and
Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Peer Exchange, held in Fairview Heights,
Illinois.See Full Press Release at Investor Relation Home.
SHAREHOLDERS: Register Now For Solar Night Investor Relations Packet & Newsletter Updates
Solar Synapse Featured in Solar Industry Magazine
As Seen In Solar Industry Magazine (January 2008):
View The Entire Article in Solar Industry Magazine
St. Louis-based Solar Night Industries (SNI) has introduced the Solar
Synapse, a product, sales and marketing program designed to enhance
builders' solar plans for new homes and homeowners.
The program
includes marketing materials to help builders sell Solar Synapse
Pre-Wire Kits - which are installed during construction to prepare a
new home for adding PV solar panels - and provide post-purchase
activity for the new homeowner.
Solar Night Industries Ground Mount Solar Thermal Project: January 2008
Solar Thermal Ground Mount Solution by Solar Night Industries.
Modern Energy Residential Project Completed: January 2008
Location: St. Louis, MO (USA)
Are You An Qualified Solar or Wind Installer Looking to Accelerate Your Business. Join the Solar Night Advanced Partner Program Today. Learn More Now
Press Release from Solar Night Industries
1.2.2008-Solar Night Industries (PINKSHEETS: SLND), a renewable energy company
formed to accelerate the adoption of Modern Energy Solutions, introduces the Solar Synapse™, a product, sales and marketing program
designed to capitalize on the burgeoning demand for renewable energy
alternatives among potential new homeowners. According to a recent
Roper survey commissioned by Sharp Electronics Corporation, nearly 90
percent of Americans think that solar electricity should be an option
for all new home construction. Three-quarters of survey respondents
perceive solar power to be more important than ever, evidence that
Americans recognize the value of solar as a modern, renewable form of
energy. See Full Press Release at Investor Relation Home.
Press Release from Solar Night Industries
12.28.2007-Solar Night Industries (PINKSHEETS: SLND), a renewable energy company
formed to accelerate the adoption of Modern Energy Solutions by providing design and product solutions, had a challenge. Project
Manager Alan Brani of Solar Night began working with their Michigan
Installer/Partner, Mark Bauer of Bauer Power, who was concerned about
finding an optimal roof mount location for a solar thermal (hot water)
installation. Working with Bauer, it was agreed the best solution would
be a "ground mount" system for the solar panels. Solar Night found it
difficult to find a viable solution from their extensive list of
suppliers. See Full Press Release at Investor Relation Home.
SHAREHOLDERS: Register Now For Solar Night Investor Relations Packet & Newsletter Updates
Modern Energy Plan Launch Featured on Sustainablog
As Seen On Sustainablog (December 2007): Because renewable adoption is still in a relatively early phase,
information is key to bringing these technologies into the mainstream.
SNI’s created a simple, elegant option for providing that necessary
information. Take a look at the sample plan they provide, and, if you’re seriously considering renewables for your home or business, give the system a spin.
I know other tools like these are on the horizon, and a healthy competitive environment will exist in this space shortly. At the same time, I think SNI’s set a high bar for competitors. As always, I wish them well with the roll-out of this tool, and hope any of you that try it out will share your thoughts.
Press Release from Solar Night Industries
12.18.2007-Solar Night Industries (PINKSHEETS: SLND), a renewable energy company
formed to accelerate the adoption of Modern Energy Solutions, today announced the launch of their Modern Energy Plan, a proprietary
process designed to help homeowners and commercial businesses save time
and expense as they struggle to find knowledgeable suppliers and
installers with cost-effective solutions for their properties. See Full Press Release at Investor Relation Home.
SHAREHOLDERS: Register Now For Solar Night Investor Relations Packet & Newsletter Updates
Press Release from Solar Night Industries
12.13.2007-Solar Night Industries (PINKSHEETS: SLND), a renewable energy company
formed to accelerate the adoption of Modern Energy Solutions, today
issued a corporate update. See Full Press Release at Investor Relation Home.
SHAREHOLDERS: Register Now For Solar Night Investor Relations Packet & Newsletter Updates
Well, I have good news and I have bad news...
...The good news is: The new energy bill passed in the House last week! The bad news is that it did not pass in the Senate!
But there is good news about the bad news! The Senate is voting on the bill again tomorrow! Therefore, once again you'll have to take action. But, don't worry, once gain I've made it easy for you. Click here to see how your senator voted, and to bug them a little before they vote tomorrow.
If your senator voted for the bill--THANK THEM! If your senator voted against this bill please pass this link to friends. The more we bug a senator the better chance we have of changing his or her vote!!!
Thanks!!!
Sincerely,
PS--Remember, this bill is designed to increase fuel economy in our cars, generate 15% of our country's electricity from clean, renewable sources, reduce our dependence on foreign oil, and curb global warming.
Introducing The Solar Night Shareowners Blog: Information and Insight for the SNI Investor Community
Solar Night Shareowners Blog is about an investment in the long term that will
dramatically improve our direct relationships with our owners and the
information you have to make informed financial decisions. We are
excited about the journey we are embarking on with you. Visit and bookmark today for the latest latest updates from Solar Night Investor Relations.
Hey Action Takers--It's Almost Time!
I've asked you repeatedly to take action on the impending energy bill as it went through the House and Senate. Don't remember? Just click here and here and here and here and here and here and here and here and here and here (with the "I'm Just a Bill" song from School House Rock!)
Well, HUGE News!!! All of our efforts will hopefully pay off later today when the House is expected to vote on the FINAL energy bill! If everything goes as expected, we can look forward to an energy bill that drastically cuts carbon (and other harmful) emissions by focusing on renewable energy and increased fuel efficiency.
Check back for the result.
And remember, we will still have to take action on other important issues. It's our responsibility as members of a democracy!
Later!
New Product Website Launched for Solar Synapse Pre-Wire Program for New Construction
Solar Synapse New Website Launched at http://www.SolarSynapse.com
The Solar Synapse™ System preps a new home for future solar photovoltaic installation. This system becomes the foundation of the home's solar energy system, and it makes the eventual rooftop installation easier and more cost-effective. By installing this Solar Synapse™ System during the construction of a new home, you could save up to $4,000 on direct labor and equipment versus a retrofit installation.
This easy-to-install kit is your first step towards offering your future homebuyer energy independence. Become a part of one of the fastest growing industries in the world, and help us to Accelerate the Adoption of Modern Energy.
Tell Your Mayor To Take Action for the Environment!
The pending energy bill is crucial for the future of our planet (hence, the numerous posts)! I've asked you to take action before, and am asking you to do so once more. However, in a slightly different format. Instead of asking you to contact your representatives, I am asking you to contact your mayor to ask him to contact your representatives. I like this route for two reasons: 1. It allows your mayor to see how important the environment is to his or her constituency (thus, potentially inspiring them to sign on to the "Cool Cities" program like my new and old mayor did), 2. The message still gets to your representative, but in this case from a person with a little more clout than the average Joe.
Visit this site to get your mayor's email address and send him/her the form letter on the importance of the pending energy bill. Again, this takes roughly 20 seconds (a productive alternative to the nose-picking you had planned for the next 20 seconds).
Thanks,
Kirkwood, Missouri Home Featuring Solar Synapse Pre-Wire Kit for New Construction Highlighted in USA Today Article Today "Eco-friendly homes move into mainstream"
Matt Belcher, President of Belcher Homes, Featured in November 1st USA Today Article
Eco-friendly homes move into mainstream
Article Excerpt:
•In Wood River, Ill., ground will be broken this week for a development that will include roughly 150 single-family homes built to green guidelines set by the National Association of Home Builders. Vegetation will be planted in the community to help clean rainwater and slow its runoff, eliminating the need for storm drains.
Matt Belcher, whose company is managing the Wood River development, built his first community of green single-family homes this year in the St. Louis suburb of Kirkwood. The community's houses were arranged so most windows faced south, making the best use of solar heating and cooling.
"It just makes me a better builder," Belcher says of the environmentally friendly practices his company is using.
As Seen in the St. Charles County Journal: Farmergy Installs Solar Panels on Busch Estate
As Seen October 31, 2007 in the St. Charles County Journal
Busch estate installs solar panels
By Eric Becker
Kirkwood-based
Farmergy on Oct. 23 completed the installation of what it says is the
largest private solar energy panel project in the region at Adolphus
Busch IV's Belleau Farms in St. Charles County. But the topic of the
day was improving the state's standing for usage of renewable energy
sources.
Busch's hope in installing the solar panels was to push
the state toward increased consciousness of renewable energy sources,
something he said the state sorely lacks.
With the passage of
the Easy Connection Act by the Missouri Legislature in March, those
using solar panels and wind turbines to generate electricity may sell
back extra energy they generate that enters the grid to local energy
companies, such as AmerenUE, at the going retail rate. Previously, they
would only receive the wholesale rate for such energy, about half its
value. Such an arrangement is commonly referred to as a net meter
system.
"You hear reports criticizing Al Gore because he takes
private jets and stuff like that, and I drive an SUV, so I thought,
'Well, here's a way to maybe help Missouri and get it to the point
where the Legislature will start giving grants and tax incentives for
this type of project," Busch said.
Busch, a member of the famous Anheuser-Busch family, also is founder of the environmental group Great Rivers Habitat Alliance.
Farmergy
Chief Executive Officer Mark Green said the passage of the Easy
Connection Act was a step that should allow more Missouri projects to
move forward.
"With the new Easy Connection Act, it's allowed us
to be able to do things, so we've got two or three projects we're going
to be beginning in the next six months," Green said.
The most convenient point of comparison would be Illinois.
"A
lot of other states are a lot more progressive," Green said. "Illinois
offers a $50,000 grant on solar systems and pays up to $25,000 on wind
turbines."
Farmergy also has a hand in biodiesel fuel and mostly
targets rural customers. Its projects across 20 states include
corporate facilities and stretch to the West Coast.
"You can get
into it for as little as $2,000 or $3,000 pumping a remote well," Green
said. "Right now, there hasn't been a lot of education to individual
farmers (about renewable energy), and most of the projects have been to
large utility-grade turbines you see in northern Missouri, as well as
biodiesel and ethanol."
The Busch project, which would generate
10 kilowatts of energy through five solar panels, could power 60
percent to 70 percent of the Busch house, Green said. The project
should pay for itself in 10 years if it cuts Busch's $1,500 energy
costs in half, as expected.
Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder, who was also at Belleau Farms, said such technologies have become increasingly economical.
"(Solar)
is a priority, but the problem to this point has been the economics of
solar, it being dramatically more expensive," Kinder said. "Now, there
are state and federal tax credits for installing solar and costs have
come down."
Busch said energy corporations finally appear to be moving in the right direction with renewable energy.
"Now
you even see GE and oil companies like BP turning to these things after
trying to suppress alternative energy for so long," he said.
Missouri,
too, still has quite a way to go. Busch would receive 8 cents for each
kilowatt/hour of extra energy his panels produced under the Easy
Connection Act. Green says Wisconsin offers 28 cents per kilowatt/hour.
Farmergy says there are less than 100 solar energy users in Missouri.
"The
reality is that you're looking at an eight- to 10-year payback right
now," Green said. "If you throw more incentives in, you can get that to
two to five years."
Busch says he hopes his decision will encourage other private homeowners, as well as farmers, to switch to renewable energies.
"I think as long as you have entrepreneurial spirit and get corporate America involved, you can have this thing work."
Farmergy Installs 10kW Solar System at Adolphus Busch Property (Belleau Farm)
As Seen In the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: October 24, 2007
Belleau Farm displays solar panels
By Nancy Cambria
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
Wednesday, Oct. 24 2007
O'FALLON, MO. — Less than 100 yards from his stone and timber home, just down
the driveway from a stable full of muddy all-terrain vehicles, Adolphus Busch
IV is the proud owner of five new massive solar panels, angled toward the sun
atop steel structures resembling white football goal posts.
The $100,000 system makes Busch owner of the region's largest personal solar
power plant, according to energy officials.
On Tuesday, Busch, 54, powered up his growing devotion to environmental causes
when he opened the gates to his secluded Belleau Farm estate and let the public
in. Busch, along with several proponents of renewable energy, held a news
conference to celebrate solar power and its potential to become a part of the
everyday lives of farmers and homeowners.
Although he is an heir to the Anheuser-Busch fortune, he's been a fairly
reserved member of the clan. He's lived on his 2,000 acre working farm in the
Mississippi River flood plain near O'Fallon since the 1970s, mostly overseeing
fields of corn, wheat and soybeans and a small herd of lumbering longhorn
cattle.
But as development in booming St. Charles County continues, Busch has
increasingly used his clout and deep pockets to pepper the St. Charles County
political scene. He's backed local candidates with an environmental bent and
fought development on the flood plain through his conservation group, Great
Rivers Habitat Alliance.
His 10-kilowatt solar electric generation system, installed by Farmergy of
Kirkwood, is designed to power his home and several barns and outbuildings.
The massive towers are expected to cut Busch's $1,500 in energy costs by half,
and pay for themselves in a little over 10 years
But penny-pinching is clearly not why the multimillionaire is going greener.
"I've been studying climate change and talked quite a bit to people to do
something on the farm," Busch said just moments before remarks from Lt. Gov.
Peter Kinder, State Sen. Joan Bray, various energy officials and Busch himself.
"I would hope it reflects my personal beliefs and commitment to the use of
renewable resources," Busch said later.
The event was intended to stress that renewable energy like solar power isn't
just for the rich or hard-core environmentalists who choose to live entirely
"off the grid" of traditional electrical power. New legislation sponsored by
Bray and pushed by Farmergy officials has made it easier for property owners —
particularly farmers — to tie a personal renewable energy system such as solar
or wind generators into the existing electrical grid, ensuring they have a
steady supply of electricity when the weather goes gray.
The "easy connect" act, passed in late spring, allows owners of solar systems
to get a one-to-one credit for any additional power they generate that goes
back into the power grid for other users. Previously, those owners were only
getting the wholesale value of their surplus electricity — about half of its
value — which made it financially unreasonable for frugal farmers, said Henry
Rentz, a vice president at Farmergy who helped draft the new rules.
Bray said "easy connect" along with her wish for greater incentives will make
solar power and other sources of renewable energy more attractive to property
owners.
Farmergy CEO Mark Green said corporate campuses and other major facilities on
the west and east coasts have been using solar power for years. But Missouri's
solar users are mostly farm owners, and they number less than 100. Most of them
went to renewable energy with the assistance of Rentz through his previous
company, Missouri Valley Renewable Energy.
Busch said he's already had a visit from officials at Emerson to look at his
new solar plant and hopes Belleau Farm will set the stage for other homeowners
to go solar. Even if they don't, he said, the presence of the panels sends a
message to everyone to tread lighter in the world.
"If we can just get more people to think about how they can live more
efficiently — whether it's through the light bulbs they use or the electric
types of cars they can drive — hopefully it can make a big difference."
****Solar Night Industries is a equity shareholder and partner of Farmergy. Both companies are headquartered in St. Louis, MO
There is Still Time to Take Action on The 2007 Energy Bill
The Solar Action Energy Society has a page on their website that allows you to e-mail and/or call your local representative to make sure they support and include the important provisions (higher CAFE standards and a commitment to renewable energy) of this legislation. On this page they also have a hyperlink to more info on the bill, as well as an "alert" flyer you can print and hang at work or local coffee shops etc...
Check it out...and please DO SOMETHING! Renewable energy is important and cannot continue to be neglected!
TAKE ACTION !!!!!
If you'll take the time right now to think back to the good old days of August, to a time of sun filled days at the park, to a time when street lights didn't pop on until 8pm, to a time when both the House and the Senate passed landmark energy bills. Bills that will save us billions of dollars (collectively) on home energy costs and at the pump. Bills that drastically reduce our level of harmful emissions, thus slowing the pace of global warming. Bills that point the US towards a more energy-independent future.
The House and Senate are now working to create a final version of the bill. We NEED to make sure that they don't leave anything important out. This will be HUGE for the future of our country. Please take the time to go to Sierra Club's "Flip the Switch" site to sign a petition, and send a (pre-written) letter to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. A copy of the letter has been pasted below for you to take a peek at. It also allows you space to add your own personal message.
Again, THIS TAKES 20 SECONDS AND IS TOO IMPORTANT NOT TO DO! Click HERE and get going...
COPY OF LETTER:
For the first time in decades, we have the chance to make real progress putting our country on the path to a clean energy future. But that's only if Congress passes a bill that combines the best of both the House and Senate bills and raises fuel efficiency standards to 35 miles per gallon and requires that 15 percent of our electricity be generated by wind, solar, or other renewable power.
A bill that contains both of these standards will save consumers more than $25 billion at the pump and billions more on their home energy bills, cut 20 to 30 percent of our projected global-warming emissions by 2030, and bring a new clean-energy economy to life that will keep and create hundreds of thousands of new, good-paying American jobs.
That's why we're asking you to stand up to Big Energy: Keep both the Senate fuel-efficiency and House renewable-energy standards in the final bill and flip the switch that will bring America's clean energy future to life.Sincerely,
YOU!
I Require DSIRE!
Don't forget to regularly log into DSIRE (Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency) at www.dsireusa.org.
DSIRE is a comprehensive source of information on state, local, utility, and federal incentives that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency.
See what incentives you have coming your way when you purchase your new(est) Modern Energy product!
And, save this site in your favorites folder--it is ever-changing, as Modern Energy is becoming more feasible for everyone.
Pure Power Party: Ameren's Renewable Energy Celebration
Not much left to say--today's PRNewswire release (below) says it all. Although it didn't mention me :( it did mention my favorite brewery, along with many other early adopters...
AmerenUE today officially launched PurePower™, the company's voluntary renewable energy program, with a special celebration featuring a 2.1-ton, 131-foot utility-grade wind turbine blade,
plus remarks by St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay, AmerenUE President and Chief
Executive Officer Thomas R. Voss and Missouri Energy Delivery Senior Vice
President Richard Mark. The event also included appearances by major early
adopters, live music and snacks that included power bars for all.
Emceed by Mark, today's 10 a.m. celebration at the Downtown St. Louis
AmerenUE Headquarters stressed the importance of renewable power development
and encouraged customers to sign up by checking the Pure Power box on their
bills, or calling 1-866-665-PURE (7873). Customers can also sign up by
visiting Ameren's Web site at http://www.ameren.com/purepower.
By signing up for Pure Power, customers support the development of wind power
and other forms of renewable energy in Missouri and the Midwest through the
purchase of certified renewable energy certificates (RECs). In August, Pure
Power became Green-e® Certified by The Center for Resource Solutions (CRS),
a national nonprofit organization that works to build a robust renewable
energy market and increase consumer awareness of renewables.
At today's celebration, a number of early adopters were acknowledged, and two
offered remarks -- the first residential customer to sign up -- Amy Johnston,
of Chesterfield, plus the first large corporate customer to sign up -- George
Osman, director of Facilities for Monsanto.
The City of St. Louis is another supporter. Mayor Francis G. Slay said today
that the City supports clean energy options and encourages all citizens to
become stewards of the environment.
"Customers who choose to participate in Pure Power are taking part in a
program that supports the development of renewables and that meets strict
standards for environmental and consumer protection from the nation's leading
symbol for renewable energy excellence," said AmerenUE President and CEO Voss.
3Degrees Group, Inc. -- formerly the REC and Utility Partnership Division of
3 Phases Energy -- will develop and manage the Pure Power program over the
next five years.
Other major early adopters were acknowledged at today's event. They include
Advertisers Printing, Answers, Inc., Chrysler Group, Creative Imaging, Crossroads College Preparatory School, Fusselman Salvage Company, Jacob
Development Group, Missouri Coalition for the Environment, St. Louis
Lithographing, Schlafly Beer, Signature Signs and Graphics, Walsworth
Publishing, and Waste Management. In addition, recognition goes to the first
Pure Power band in St. Louis -- the Ralph Butler Band.
At least half of the Pure Power demand will be met by new renewable
generators located within Missouri and Illinois. Seventy-five percent or
more of customer demand will support wind farms, with the balance supporting
other forms of renewable generation.
Customers participating in the program choose to pay an additional 1.5 cents
per kilowatthour (kWh) for the electricity they use. Based on this additional
charge, a typical household using 1,000 kWh of electricity per month would pay
an additional $15.00 on the monthly bill. AmerenUE small, medium and large
business customers will be able to participate by purchasing 1,000 kWh
"blocks" of Pure Power for $15 per block. Business customers can purchase as
many blocks as they want.
Pure Power funds are used to purchase RECs from recently constructed regional
wind and other renewable generators on the customer's behalf. AmerenUE does
not profit from the program, and there are no contracts to sign. Customers
can stop participating at any time with no penalty.
Modern Energy Wind Project: Grand Valley State University
Modern Energy Wind Project at Grand Valley State University
September 2007
Mark Twain...Sage
"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover."
--Mark Twain
Mark Twain's quotes are some of my very favorites. Especially this one. He reminds us here to get out and LIVE! But, how can this quote be tied to renewable energy?
...You can't expect me to spell everything out for you!
A Little Green Math Challenge For You--(because my calculator watch just broke)
OK--as a new signer upper for Ameren's Pure Power Plan I am curious about 1 thing: How can I present this to my wife as an economical decision? Two things are apparent from that question: 1. I signed up without telling my wife--not usually my style, I guess I was just hoping she wouldn't notice. 2. She won't be down with supporting modern energy. Not true--she's down. It's just that she is more fiscally conservative than I.
So here is my math problem for you:
Ameren's Pure Power Plan asks the customer to pay 1.5 cents per kWh. Let's say my house uses 7000 kWh per year (just a guess). And let's say I changed 16-60 watt incandescent light bulbs with 16-14 watt CFL's. Does that come anywhere close in annual savings to make up for the extra money I'm paying for the Pure Power Plan???
Get out your calculators! The answers can be submitted through the 'comments' tab below this entry.
Thanks!
Solar Night to attend 2nd Annual Sustainability Conference at Westminster College in Fulton, MO
Meet Solar Night Industries at Westminster College Energy Symposium on September 26, 2007.
Solar Power Conference 2007 - Long Beach, California
Solar Night Industries will be attending the Solar Power Conference in Long Beach, California the week of September 24, 2007.
Take Action!
In an earlier post I passed along some of my favorite sites so that you can keep up to date on the latest and greatest in the world of modern energy.
In my infinite (read: finite) wisdom I neglected to add http://www.votesolar.org/ and http://www.wind-watch.org/alerts/category/sources/action-alerts/ 2 websites dedicated to keeping the citizenry up to date on relevant action items in the fields of solar and wind energy, respectively.
With those two sites alone you are able to hound (read:inform, annoy) your local politicians, so that they will realize the importance of, and demand for, modern energy solutions.
No matter how important an issue is, there will be no supply unless the 'powers that be' fell there is a demand. Let's show them that the demand (for items like this, this, this, and this) is there...
...start hounding!!!
We Can Lead our Leader
Sierra Club has started a "Be Part of the 2% Solution" Campaign. The motivation behind the campaign came from a growing consensus illustrated below:
The world's scientists agree: Global warming is real, here, and happening faster than anyone predicted. But scientists also say we can curb global warming and its consequences -- if we take bold, comprehensive action now that adds up to an 80% cut in carbon emissions by 2050. That's a do-able 2% cut a year for each of the next forty years.
This seems very "do-able"! My wife and I already bike commute, we eat local and organic as often as possible, we just (15 minutes ago) signed up for Ameren's Pure Power Plan (check it out Missourians!), we recycle and compost, our light bulbs (except the dimmers) are CFL's, and we are hoping to add solar panels, and buy a hybrid in 2008.
For MANY more ideas of what you can do visit http://whatcanidousa.org/.
Also, sign the 2% petition to President Bush---to show him that his countrymen will lead the charge to make a better tomorrow.
2% is easy--especially with one of these...or this!
Solar Night Attends Dedication Event at Western Michigan University-September 14, 2007
Modern Wind Energy Project at Western Michigan University
September 14, 2007 Dedication of Skystream 3.7
Modern Energy (Plan) is Number 2!
If you read this blog [please forward this wonderful info to all of your family and friends :) ] you care about a. the environment and/or b. saving a little money in these times of rising, fluctuating energy costs. That said, you need to go out and toss some solar panels on your roof, right?
Wrong.
Solar-panel-"tossing" is not the first step to (a) creating zero emissions while creating your own energy. Nor is it the first step in saving money on your utility bill.
Step 1 is getting a Modern Energy Plan for your home. SNI's Modern Energy Plan allows us to take a look at your home or business and see if it can benefit from a wind and/or solar energy system. This is done by noting your current energy consumption, listing steps to make your current situation more efficient, checking the direction your roof faces, noting the size of your lot, finding out if their are any local restrictions or incentives, researching the amount of wind and sunlight common to your geographic location, and much more...
We do this so that when you do purchase a wind or solar energy system from us we know it will work well to suit both your environmental and economic interests.
Therefore, the process goes like this:
1. You decide you want to create clean, free energy.
2. You contact us for your Modern Energy Plan.
3. We Go through the steps of the plan with you.
4. We decide which system is right for you.
5. You create clean, free energy!
Keeping you happy, keeps us happy...
Now get started!
Green Up Your Act: Part 3
7 More Tips to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
1. Reduce--Buy less things, download music instead of buying the CD, choose products with less packaging, grow your own food, buy less things...
2. Re-Use--re-use old grocery bags, share your old clothes with a cousin, use old sauce jars for storing small items, visit freecycle.com--your junk may be your neighbor's treasure...
3. Recycle--Paper, plastic, glass, food (compost your raw food scraps for healthier gardens or plants), buy items made from recycled items (I just got over a bad cold, during which time I went through 3 boxes of recycled paper tissues--and I even used handkerchiefs as well!)...
4. Bring Your Own Bag to The Grocery Store--I know this falls under both reduce and re-use, but if everyone did it it would eliminate so much paper and plastic consumption! The process to make paper and plastic emits tons of CO2 into the air--not to mention other toxic chemicals--and paper bags are made form trees. Trees absorb CO2 from the atmosphere (and give us O!).
5. Bathe With A Loved One--It's fun, and it conserves water (another VERY important issue). But it also cuts your energy-hogging water heater's use in half!
6. Use a Power Strip--Even when you're not using your plugged in items they still use electricity (called phantom loads). If you plugged things into a power strip, you could flip off the power strip when you're not using the items.
7. Don't Idle--EVER!--Even ten seconds of idling in your car has been proven to use more gas (therefore, emitting more CO2) than turning it on and off again.
SNI and Farmergy at the Ozark Renewable Energy and Sustainable Living Expo
SNI will share a tent at the Ozark Renewable Energy and Sustainable Living Expo, with Farmergy, on September 22-23. The Expo will take place at the Les Bourgeois Winery just outside of Columbia, MO.
For more info on this great event click here.
SNI to attend WMU's Wind Turbine Dedication
Western Michigan University President John M. Dunn and WMU's School of Engineering invite you to "Catch the Electricity". As they dedicate the school's first wind turbine generator!
Featuring Congressman Fred Upton.
Friday, September 14, 2007, at the College of Engineering, Parkview Campus.
50,000 Eyes on Modern Energy!
We love people like Western Michigan University professor John Patten. People motivated by producing "clean, green, energy". John mentioned this as his main motivator when spending $10,000 of his own money on a 45 foot Skystream 3.7 for the university's campus.
Well done professor! But, what I love about it is the fact that 50,000 (25,000 students) eyes will be on that turbine this year alone. Professor Patten is showing one tenth of a quarter of a million people (I liked how that sounded) that modern energy works. These students will get to see (and hear) the quiet, clean energy producing power on a daily basis. A sight that I'm sure will turn the apathetic and skeptical among them, on to the modern energy revolution.
As I've always said--the more exposure these systems receive the better. And this is a lot of exposure.
Thanks John!!!
Just Say No to a Veto!
As was mentioned on our blog a few days ago--the House approved the new (modern) energy bill by a final vote of 241 to 172. This is GREAT NEWS!!!
The bill requires that 15% of every utility's power be generated by renewable energy by the year 2020! In the fall, the House must put this bill together with the Senate bill (recently approved) that requires higher fuel efficiency standards for motor vehicles. The marriage of the two bills will result in increased energy independence, as well as a cleaner environment.
However...
After the bills are united they still need to be signed into law by President Bush...and unfortunately, he has already threatened to veto this bill! Hopefully, between now and the fall he can understand that energy independence for our country, and a cleaner environment are not political issues--but issues that JUST MAKE SENSE!
Keep your fingers crossed!!!
Find Some New Arguments...Please!
I often hear, from modern energy slowpokes, that (in regards to wind turbines) they are "ugly" or "too loud" or "too BIG". After I address these outdated complaints (for the LAST time...or until next time, anyway), I beg you, please go out and finally purchase the wind turbine you've been secretly pining for--or--find an updated complaint.
"Ugly"--First of all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I happen to find them dead sexy. But don't take my word for it. Take the Sustainable Industries editorial team who named the Skystream 3.7 (pictured) one of their Top Ten Green Building Products for 2007. A decision based on a variety of criteria--one being aesthetics. Regardless of what anyone else thinks--I imagine that in our society, a society based so depressingly much around the TV, if this exact wind turbine was needed to offer your home digital, high definition, 100+ channel cable, you (meaning the general public) wouldn't hesitate to throw one (or two?) of these up in you backyard. Moving on...
"Too loud"-- The Skystream sound pressure level (in decibels) is consistent with, not a dog barking, nor a lawnmower, not even your neighbor's weed whacker--it is at the same decibel level as background noise. Meaning you'll hardly even notice it!
"Too big"--Smaller than it's older counterparts, the Skystream 3.7 can range anywhere from 34-70 feet (size variations are based on site). Besides, it couldn't get too much smaller--you do want 4KWh of energy each month don't ya? (based on a 12 mph wind average)
Plus, the best thing about generating your own energy from wind...
...You can't break wind! Get it?
Finally, all of your misconceptions are cleared up.
House Passes Renewable Energy Standard
"We are turning to the future," said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.
WASHINGTON -- The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bipartisan amendment to a broad energy package Saturday requiring utilities to provide 15% of their power from renewable energy sources by 2020.
Inclusion of a renewable power standard -- approved by a vote of 220-190 -- is a major addition to the kind of energy package the House and Senate Democratic leadership is seeking, especially after a similar bill failed to pass in the Senate.
"We are turning to the future," said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.
On one of the most contentious and heavily lobbied issues, the House voted to require investor-owned electric utilities nationwide to generate at least 15 percent of their electricity from renewable energy sources such as wind, solar and biofuels.
The utilities and business interests had argued aggressively against the federal renewables mandate, saying it would raise electricity prices in regions of the country that do not have abundant wind energy. But environmentalists argued the requirement will spur investments in renewable fuels and help address global warming as utilities use less coal.
"This will save consumers money," said Rep. Tom Udall, D-N.M., the provision's co-sponsor, maintaining utilities will have to use less high-priced natural gas. He noted that half the states already have a renewable energy mandate for utilities, and if utilities can't find enough renewables they can meet part of the requirement through power conservation measures.
Solar Night Presenting Solar Synapse Pre-Wire Kit for New Construction at Timbers at Creekside Home-Tuesday, August 7th
Come See the Finished Home by Belcher Homes featuring the Solar Synapse Pre-Wire Kit for New Construction!
Last Chance to See the Timbers at Creekside Home Timbers at Creekside home (the Essex Plan).
This home will be sold on August 10!
This will be the last chance to see it finished. Open on Sunday August 5 from 1-3pm
And
Open on Tuesday August 7 from 4-6pm with a presentation of the Solar Synapse by Solar Night Industries.
Two new plans for the remaining Lots!
Belcher Homes will also introduce two new plans for the remaining lots, a ranch plan for Lot 3 and a 2-story plan for Lot 5. Both will feature custom sustainable homebuilding techniques from the Belcher Homes Experts.
BEEP BEEP--Honk if You're Efficient!
I've declared my love for acronyms in a previous post, aptly titled 'I Love Acronyms'. Today my energy efficient side and my acronym-loving side were happy to read about BOMA's (Building Owners and Managers Association) BEEP (the BOMA Energy Efficiency Program). BOMA's BEEP has been focusing on "low and no cost" strategies for energy efficiency on office buildings. If BEEP goals are met the 9 billion square feet of office and retail space in the U.S. would cut energy consumption one third by 2012. BEEP estimates that the 33% cut in energy consumption "equates to $7.2 billion, and is readily achievable simply by improving building operating standards."
If the goals are in fact met I would have to declare BEEP one of my BEEPs (Best Energy Efficiency Plans) for sure!
BEEP BEEP!!!
Shimkus/Farmergy Webinar Highlights
If you were unable to attend Farmergy's webinar yesterday, with U.S. Congressman John Shimkus from Illinois' 19th district, check out this link for highlights from the event.
Shimkus/Farmergy Provide Update on Current Energy Bill, and More...
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Investing for a Healthier, Wealthier Tomorrow
"According to a joint report by Greenpeace and the European Renewable Energy Council (EREC), investing in a renewable energy as the source for electricity in our future will save 10 times the fuel costs of a 'business as usual' scenario, saving US$180 billion annually and cutting CO2 emissions in half by 2030."
This is, of course, the recurring theme in most of my posts. Investing in Modern Energy will save money in the long run AND reduce the amount of carbon emissions we create. It is a WIN/WIN scenario!
To read the article that the quote above came from, click here. It's time for all of us to make a difference...
The Process of Buying the Wind: Come, Follow the Crow's
Bruce and Tammy Crow of Fort Defiance Virgina recently purchased a Skystream 3.7 from us and took the time to log the entire process from the information gathering phase through to completion. Here it is. As they point out, it should answer any questions a future consumer would have...
Good morning Amy I have outlined our process to inform others who may be interested in wind power.
May 2007
* Gathered info on increase in real estate property values with renewable energy sources.
* Info sheet on noise and decibel level of turbine system in operation.
* Info sheet on bird and animal kills from wind turbines.
* Met with all six (6) adjoining property owners to discuss turbine install and answer any questions they may have. Left information packet with each for their review--All property owners approved installation without hesitation, no questions.
* Filed application with County for special use permit(required since net metering with current electrical company and tying into their grid).
June 2007
* County Board of Zoning Meeting held on Thursday, June 7, 2007
* Special use permit for turbine system - APPROVED
* Applied for and purchased building and electrical permits for all inspections
* Talked to Alan (Brani) at Solar Night Ind, sales order confirmed and dated 6/18/2007
* Spoke to Amy (Alexander) at Solar Night Ind, verify payment received, items to be ordered
* Purchased all electrical supplies and hook-ups
* Set Outdoor disconnect as required by NEC & UL 1741
* Sent specifications and placed order for rebar cage
July 2007
* Received email from Amy to advise what items were being shipped
and tracking #
* Upon receiving tracking number we followed the status of shipment online * * Call from Estes trucking, items at terminal for pick up (no truck in area)
* Upon pick up and inspection, one turbine blade was damaged
* Emailed Amy at Solar Night Ind, sent description and picture of damage
* Received call and email from Amy, a replacement set would be sent and call tag for damaged blades
* Federal Express delivered large bolts, and template for bolt pattern set
* Shenandoah Tower arrived to dig hole for pier foundation, template made set on rebar cage and set in hole and double checked for accuracy and secured.
* Concrete pour scheduled, delivered, finish work done, setting up nicely.
* Rented large trencher for electrical inspection next day
* Trench dug, electrical service placed, inspected and approval given to cover and proceed
* Following day all backfilling, grading, seeding and landscaping done.
* Looks great, all family members and neighbors are getting excited, as well as ourselves
At this time, we are waiting the 28 days for the concrete pour to cure properly.
Cover letter mailed on 7/17/2007 to Dominion VA. Power requesting meter change out to allow for net metering program.
Tentative start up date is for September 2007 if all goes well.
So far so good. Thank you for your call.
~Bruce and Tammy Crow
Thanks Bruce and Tammy!
I've highlighted and underlined my favorite part about the family and neighbors getting excited. That is the most important thing! People like the Crow's turning their friends and family on to the possibilities of renewable energy.
Creating your own electricity, while creating zero harmful emissions...who wouldn't be excited?!
SNI is Hiring!
SNI is looking for a Commercial Design Engineer.
For more information on the skills and qualifications required to work for this great company, click here.
Best of luck!!!
Solar Night Industries is Publicly Traded: SLND.PK
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