The current financial climate has made people more aware of their monthly expenditures, and saving money has become a way of life. Although finding alternative, green energy solutions is kind to your pocket, they are also kinder to the environment. There are several different methods of energy saving techniques that will help both the planet and your pocket. The green energy will decrease both your monthly energy bills and your overall carbon footprint.

Saving energy to save money
There are several different ideas that can help you to reduce your energy bills without a huge outlay. People are often concerned about the price they will need to pay to go green, and for many they simply do not have large amounts of money to spare. Therefore, they will be looking for cheaper alternatives to help them save energy and money.

What you can do for free or very little expense
Unplugging appliances when not in use, and checking seals on doors and windows, are very simply things that people often forget. You can lose huge amounts of energy through your doors and windows every year. Replacing light bulbs to energy efficiently styles and turning your thermostat down a few degrees will all save you money. Washing your clothes in cooler water and hanging them to dry rather than using dryers will also save you vast amounts of money over time.

Carpooling can save time, effort and energy
There are millions of vehicles on the road every day, and many of these do not need to be, everyone uses their cars far too much and for journeys that could be completed on foot. However, if you do have to use your car to commute to work, or get the children to school carpooling is excellent. Not only will you help to reduce the carbon footprint, but also save yourself money on car expenses. Everything that you spend on your car will be reduced, making your bank balance better and the environment cleaner.

Shopping, cooking and eating
Foods can now be bought from all over the world no matter where you are, and although this has helped to increase people’s appreciation for other cuisines, it has increased the carbon footprint. You should try to ensure that you eat locally grown produce, and foods that are in season. Shopping once a week is also very important to save money on the gas to get to the stores and you will buy less. Cooking at home will also save you money and ensure that you know exactly where your food originated.

Natural cleaning and beauty products
People spend huge amounts of money every year on cleaning products that not only cost a fortune but also damage the environment. Natural products are far cheaper and better for the environment, and you will be amazed how many household items you can use. You can use products that are kinder to both you and the environment, ensuring that you and your house remain looking great. Natural products will save you money and ensure that everything you apply to your body will not harm you.

Growing your own food
With the current financial situation that people have found themselves in more people are looking to grow their own fruits, vegetables and herbs. Although this may seem daunting, if you start on a small scale you will soon discover how easy it is. Many vegetables and herbs can be grown in pots and containers, ensuring that there is no excuse not to grow your own foods. The simplest foods that can be grown are tomatoes, potatoes and herbs. All of which will save you a great deal of money on your weekly grocery bill.

Solar energy to save money
Solar panels have grown in popularity over the last few years, as people began to understand them more. In the past people believed that solar cells would only work in hot climates; however, this is untrue, and in fact, they will charge anywhere there is daylight. You will need to outlay an initial expense; however, once they are in place they will begin to save you money. If you are fortunate enough to produce a large amount of energy, you can sell it back to the energy company. The solar panels are very easy to install and take little maintenance.

Home Wind power to cut your bills
Wind power is something that is often only seen on a huge scale either out at sea, or on the top of large mountains. These wind farms are excellent and can help to power a huge number of homes; however, they may not be situated near you. If you live in an area which you feel would benefit from a wind turbine, you may want to consider these as alternative energy sources. The turbine will need to be placed on a tall tower to allow the most wind to be captured. Rural areas will benefit from this style of energy source the most, and they can be used to power a number of different items.

Water powered generators are the next best thing
If you live in the city, water powered generators will not be something that you have ever considered, however, for people in rural areas they are an option. You will need to be in the ideal location with a fast flowing stream nearby to take advantage of this amazing natural resource. The stream will need to have a turbine fitted in the ideal place to produce the most energy. Although this is not one of the most popular options for homeowners, large companies are beginning to use the sea to produce green energy.

There are a huge number of different things, which you can do, to save money with green energy that will not cost you a fortune. No matter what your budget is, or where you live in the world you can help to decrease the world’s carbon footprint. If everyone just did a little, there would be a huge improvement in the environment.

About: M.H is writing for Alternative Energy Geek.com, an informative source where you will learn what types of renewable energy sources are available and how you can utilize them in a smart way.

Image:   Some rights reserved by Richard Drdul