Costa writes: Do you think using wind is better than using solar to generate electricity? Ener-Gee Whiz: If you're considering installing a renewable energy system and are having a hard time deciding between the wind turbines and solar panels, you might find that the right renewable energy system for you depends on a number of factors. The first and most obvious consideration is the wind or solar resource in your area. While there is a tendency to think that the wind always blows and the sun always shines no matter where you're located, wind and solar resources are actually quite variable across the United States. That's not to say that a consumer in Seattle couldn't install a solar electric system and have success at producing electricity. But a consumer in Phoenix would likely be much more successful at electricity generation because of the more robust solar resource in the southwestern United States. For help in determining the renewable resource potential in your area, you can link... [More]

Ener-Gee Whiz would like to offer a hearty thanks to all of you who've written in for your great efficiency and renewables related questions. Now, on to some answers! Patti writes: Is it efficient to raise the thermostat in a business when the business is closed during air conditioning season? Ener-Gee Whiz: Your business might be able to save energy—and money—by turning your thermostat up during the cooling season. But how much energy and money you save are largely dependent on how much you set your thermostat back and for how long. The Energy Savers website suggests that turning up your thermostat 10-15°F for at least eight hours can save an average of 10% on your cooling bills. In a 1997 study, the Energy Information Administration conducted a more detailed analysis of possible energy savings during the heating months by setting a thermostat back one degree. Even this minimal setback, if consistent, resulted in estimated savings of $16-28 dollars per year, depending ... [More]

This week marks the start of a new feature at the Energy Savers Blog that we're calling Ener-Gee Whiz. Ener-Gee Whiz posts will provide information on hot energy efficiency and renewables topics in the news or answer energy-related questions posed by Energy Savers blog readers. To get this first post started, I've provided answers to a few questions that consumers have asked of the staff here at the EERE Information Center in recent weeks: Question: I'm interested in installing a small wind or solar electric system at my home. How do I get started? Answer: There are a number of first steps you might consider if you're planning to install a residential solar or wind system. First, consider the solar or wind resource available on your site and whether it is sufficient to produce enough electricity to meet your needs. Next, you may want to investigate whether the system you are considering would qualify for federal or state tax incentives and investigate any eligibility requirements neces... [More]