Most of us cannot feasibly afford to install a full solar power system into our homes. Energy Refuge suggests starting small. One solar panel and a sealed battery would hold about 400 watts of electricity. You will also need a charge control, power inverter, and a voltage meter. That is enough to run some of your small appliances, and will offset the cost of the solar panel. Here is a tutorial, put together by Energy Refuge on how to build a basic solar power generator. If you are not comfortable starting from scratch, then have a look at this kit, by the 'Go-Solar' Company. Reasonably priced especially when you consider the savings on your electrical bill. Five hours of sun per day and a 20 watt solar panel will give you 100 watt-hours of energy. To store more electricity simply purchase a larger battery.

---

A new environmentally friendly energy source may be found in the world's oceans. Marine bacteria DNA contains 'proteorhodopsin', a light capturing pigment which is similar to the pigment in the human retina which enables us to see colors. Science Daily says researchers have found it would be possible for marine bacteria to capture solar light to generate energy with this pigment. Studies were done by the University of Kalmar in Sweden, in collaboration with researchers in Gothenburg, Sweden, and Spain.

"Bacteria in the surface water of the world's oceans swim in a sea of light," says Jarone Pinhassi. "And it is shouldn't be too surprising that evolution has favored microorganisms that can use this rich source of energy. This type of protein may also play a role in commercial and environmental perspectives, for the development of artificial photosynthesis for the environmentally friendly production of energy."

Twenty different marine bacteria from various ocean sites were studied, and many proved to contain proteorhodopsin. The method could very well be used efficiently, considering approximately a billion bacteria can be found in one bucket of seawater.

"It was long thought that algae were the only organisms in the seas that could use sunlight to grow," says Jarone Pinhassi, a researcher in Marine Microbiology at Kalmar University College. These microscopic algae carry out the same process as green plants on land, namely, photosynthesis with the help of chlorophyll."

This study was published in the journal 'Nature'.

---

Our hot water heater is so central to the household, it’s practically a family member. Without it, there would be no hot baths or showers, no warm water for dishes, and only freezing cold hand-washing. Brrr. But there is a price for this inconvenience, and it comes on the electricity bill as well as niggling at my conscience. Luckily, most local electricity is generated by hydroelectric facilities, a slightly greener power source. Even so, all but the worst laundry goes into cold water, showers are short (ideally), and baths relatively infrequent. So what would improve my relationship with the hot water heater?

---

As energy prices soar, the world is seeking out new ways of bring electricity to the public. And solar power is a big contributor to these new ideas. Solar power has taken off in the ideas worldwide to utilize the sun as much as possible. From children’s playgrounds, to trees, and even to lily pads, the idea to get solar panels just about everywhere is exploding. Children’s Playground In Australia, a concept for solar trees on school playgrounds is being considered. These giant shades look similar to patio umbrellas, but with solar panels on top and a multi-level purpose. The structures spin, so they can be adjusted to get the sun at any angle. They also serve as shade for the children to play under. And the solar panels power the school.

---

Did you know even when you shut down powered devices in your home, phantom power usage continues? It all adds up. Besides increasing the cost of your electricity bill, it is an energy waster. Cell phone chargers, computers, and other appliances use electricity even when turned off. Standby, or sleep mode continues to use electricity. Though not always practical to unplug everything from the wall when not in use, Treehugger has some ideas for powering down. Try a smart power bar, which will cut the power when your devices are off. Even better, the mini power minder has the smarts to shut down your computer's peripherial devices, when you shut down your computer. With a 'KillaWatt' or 'Wattson' you can test your appliances and monitor your home electricity usage. Consider a portable solar or wind recharger, such as this Solio charger for handheld devices, including your digital camera. Very practical, recharge anywhere, while saving energy at the same time. Here are some tips for Reducing Energy Costs.

---

Let’s admit it - we are pretty obsessed with electronics in recent years. From cellphones to laptops, Blackberry devices to mp3 players, a single person can juggle lots of attention-grabbing equipment. But they all require some power source and batteries are the common denominator. While some people may consider energy issues before a purchase, chances are that most consumers do not. A new product may appeal to technophiles and environmental enthusiasts alike. Intended to hit the market Spring 2008, the Voltaic Generator joins its smaller cousins, the Voltaic solar bags, to support our power-hungry requirements.

---

Living off grid can be comfortable, as homes in a 16-square-mile area of Decorah, Iowa know. Supplementing energy needs using the powers of the Earth, one considers storage before turning on any appliances and electrical devices.

"People ask us how we can live like this. Jeepers, I just come home, turn on the lights, grab a cold beer from the refrigerator and watch the news on TV," Dale Kittleson, 47, said. "The only difference is when you are making your own energy, you are more aware of the energy you use, adding, "We didn't come out here wanting to freeze in the dark."

Kittleson and the others are in tune with the wind, the sun and kilowatt hours. Micro-generation is what is know as living off grid. Michelle Kenyon Brown, executive director of IRENEW, a nonprofit organization in Iowa City that promotes renewable energy says,

---