SKU: b6

Concern over energy supply, costs and environmental problems are not limited to those prepared to venture into the countryside to an off-grid life. Urban people ¿ now the vast majority in the western world ¿ share the same fear about what lies ahead. Yet the average North American family will spend over one quarter million after-tax dollars on energy in a lifetime. The difference between North American and European energy consumption is waste and inefficiency ¿ or, simply, wasted money. $mart Power shows homeowners that using less energy or adopting renewable-energy technologies is not about making drastic lifestyle sacrifices, nor is it expensive. In fact, energy efficiency often improves lifestyle through lower operating costs, a more comfortable environment, and increased disposable income. $mart Power shows that our concern for first cost when purchasing appliances and consumer goods is robbing us blind. For example, keeping a 15-year-old fridge rather than replacing it will actually cost 4-5 times more than the new model because of wasted energy costs. This richly illustrated book includes chapters on: · Energy efficiency · Space heating and cooling · Community power · Energy efficient transportation · Photovoltaics, wind and biofuels · Batteries, voltage regulation and inverters · Solar water heating and backup power About the Contributor(s) William Kemp is VP Engineering of Powerbase Automation Systems Inc. and a consulting electronics/software designer who develops control systems for low environmental impact hydroelectric utilities worldwide. He is a sustainable living and clean energy advocate working in renewable energy heating, energy efficiency, photovoltaic, microhydro and wind electric systems.