| Understanding Energy |
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For most of us, as we begin to learn about renewable energies, it is often helpful to put them within the familiar context of conventional energies - for example natural gas, oil, propane and grid electricity - because this is what we are familiar with. Energy pervades our North American lifestyles. We use energies in everything we do, yet we can be insensitive to how much we use. Partly, this is due to the “on demand” nature of our conventional and grid energy systems – there is always lots of energy available whenever we want it – and typically, our concern is about price. We also have very little control over our grid energies: how they are produced, how much greenhouse gas they generate, and how they are priced. Renewable energies are very different. On-site renewable energy systems give control back to their owners. However renewable energy systems are sensitive to sizing: the more energy you use, the larger the system you need. Renewable energy systems are like little energy factories – the bigger the installation, the more energy it generates but at a higher cost. For this reason, when you move to locally generated renewable energy, it is important not to install more energy production than is required. Good conservation and knowing your energy needs are key to keeping your renewable energy system as cost-effective as possible. EcoGen Energy works with you to help firstly conserve energy, and then to determine energy needs so that those needs can be met in a cost-effective, sustainable way. Careful consultation helps to find how much energy is required. |
Conservation
Conventional Energies
Comparing Energies
Domestic Energy Needs
Energy Prices
For in-depth information about the energy industry in Canada, visit:
Centre for Energy