As homes become more efficient, the portion of energy used for water heating is growing larger. Collectively, the amount of energy expended on this simple task is astounding and much of it is wasted. There are many options for improving the efficiency of our water heating systems, including insulating the water heater and pipes, avoiding […]
Living Green in Las Vegas
There are a lot of paths to choose from when it comes to Green Living. That’s part of what I like about it. There’s sort of an ethic or mindset that guides one’s choices, but the options are almost endless. There is no single solution to creating a sustainable community and I never tire of […]
Save Money – Go Solar
One of the most satisfying things we can do is gain energy independence. Start with efficiency. Get a professional energy audit and follow the recommendations, however mundane they may be. Then it’s time for the fun part, installing solar panels. We all want to save money and get a good deal, especially on big-ticket items. […]
Solving the Water Crisis
The aptly-named Black Mountains behind my home have been turned a beautiful shade of green by recent and relatively abundant rainfall. Even a brief rain event in Southern Nevada is welcome, but the last month or so has been exceptional and it has me thinking of potential opportunities. Each time I see water dripping off […]
Southern Nevada Solar Home Tour
October is my favorite month in Southern Nevada. The summer heat is waning and the cooler nights are delightful. It also happens to be National Energy Awareness Month. It sounds like the perfect time to visit and learn about solar homes, don’t you think? The American Solar Energy Society (ASES) agrees, and their annual National […]
Solar Power and Lifestyle Choices
I was recently contacted by a woman who had purchased a home with a solar electric (photovoltaic or PV) system on the roof. Let’s call her Britt. She had found my name in the paperwork left by the previous owner since I did the initial consultation and site survey. Britt sounded very nice on the […]
Radically Sustainable Homes
I tend to take a pragmatic approach to life. I suppose that’s why I’m so enamored with the idea of green living. It is a sensible practice that addresses most of the primary issues of our time. Everything from health, comfort, economics, environment and happiness can be optimized using an integrative approach that adds balance […]
Solar Water Heating Update
Last October we installed a solar water heating system on our home. It has been about ten months and I thought this would be a good time for a promised update. Overall, we are very pleased with the results so far. Solar Water Heating System Our system was manufactured by Heliodyne in Richmond, California. I […]
A Time of Momentous Change
This is a time of momentous change, the kind of historically-significant, mind-altering transition that shapes the entire world far into the future. This week, it came to Las Vegas cleverly disguised as the National Clean Energy Summit 5.0: Power of Choice. Tuesday’s summit was indeed about the Power of Choice, and our choices are more […]
Green Building Attacked by Chemical Industry
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead No doubt you’ve seen that famous quote before. It is a powerful and simple truth. One such group of thoughtful, committed citizens has changed the construction industry forever. Though small […]