An independent alternative energy {A-E} system typically produces just 10 to 25% of the electricity consumed by a utility powered American home.

Rather than major lifestyle changes, most advantages electricity offers are kept, while consuming a smaller percentage of the power others use. Here is how:

The amount of power your system collects depends on the natural energy resources at your location, and on how much equipment you install to gather that energy. How much benefit you receive from that energy depends on careful selection of lights and appliances for more energy efficiency and on your conservation habits. That means using energy efficient lighting (a good source is the Home Depot), refrigerators, and freezers that use much less power. It means using natural or propane gas for major heat production in cooking, water heating, and clothes drying. Heating loads, such as electric baseboards, water heaters, and range/ovens, along with older conventional refrigerators, place extremely high demands on A-E systems and are not cost effective. Conventional refrigeration manufacturers have come a long way in making affordable energy efficient appliances available. We suggest making a trip to Sears or your local appliance store and compare the EPA Energy Guide of new refrigerators to your current one. Another option would be to use a propane gas refrigerator. Call your local propane dealer to see if they have details.

Install extra electrical switches to cut power off phantom electric loads, that is, things like stereo, TV, garage door openers, and office equipment, all of which consume power even when not turned on. We suggest using motion sensor and timer switches for outdoor lights, and heating systems that distribute heat without pumps or blowers. Cooling is evaporative ("swamp coolers" in non-humid areas) instead of air conditioning. Learn how to get the most benefit from the fewest kilowatt-hours. In short:

1. Design your whole cottage/cabin (water, heat, power) for low energy use.
2. Carefully select special low energy lights and appliances.
3. Eliminate energy waste in appliances, and from carelessness.