Solar & Alternative Energy Ideas & Inspiration

Explore inspiring solar & alternative energy ideas that will drastically make your home more efficient & appealing.

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Your Guide to Home Solar Panels

Whether you're looking to shrink your carbon footprint or just your monthly expenses, there’s never been a better time to go solar. Keep reading for the lowdown on everything from current tax incentives to new tech choices.
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How Cool Roof Shingles Work

Solar reflective roof shingles are an innovative technology that can lower your heating and cooling costs and be better for the environment.
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Future House | Affordable Geothermal

Ask This Old House home technology expert Ross Trethewey travels to Albany, New York to explore ways to make drilling for and installing geothermal heat pumps more affordable for average homeowners.
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Future House | Living Off the Grid Comfortably

Ask This Old House home technology expert Ross Trethewey visits an off-the-grid home in South Carolina that’s testing commercial HVAC equipment.
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How to Provide Backup Power without Gas

Don't get caught by surprise during a power outage - an electric generator is a great alternative option to keep the lights on during a storm.
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Understanding Solar Power

Thinking about installing solar panels on your house? Watch as This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey explains the complexities of modern solar-power systems.
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What Germany Can Teach Us About Home Energy

Ask This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey takes host Kevin O'Connor on a tour of Germany with an eye toward renewable energy and sustainable home heating.
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The Scoop on Solar Power

You don't have to live in the Sunshine State to take advantage of renewable energy