Creating Local Energy in Fairfield

We are dependent on electricity. Our country has built an enormous infrastructure that supports that need, as well as supports millions of jobs across the country that maintain the current system.

Creating local, renewable energy sources is a vital step in building sustainable cities. More and more people are learning about what it takes to accomplish this and taking the initiative to generate at least a portion of their electrical needs through home systems.

The best renewable energy option depends on price, amount of electricity that is needed and the structure and geography of the site. Some choices are stand-alone (off-grid) systems, solar electric systems, wind electric systems, microhydropower systems and hybrid electric systems. To know what system is best for your home or business, it’s important to know your electrical load and to understand local codes and requirements.

Energy cooperatives are another way to support local energy production and to support local green infrastructures. Although still a new concept in this country, there is an increasing interest in communities across the country in supporting these social ventures. San Francisco is leading the way. Just underway  is the The San Francisco Energy Co-Op.  Another project that uses a different model is the Sunset Reservoir Project. 

Creating local, renewable energy sources is a process and it will take time and enormous effort to develop a national green infrastructure. But the process has begun, and momentum is building.

What can we do here in Fairfield to create local energy sources? Please being your ideas to the next Green Drinks, scheduled for Wednesday, July 6th at The Cove.

Daphne