An Important and Timely Editorial I want to Share With You

Today I read a most interesting editorial titled "Rich Man's Energy Game" by Bill Gregware (Sunday American, June 26, 2009).

Mr. Gregware writes in a very clear article, how the rich are taking advantage of Federal and State rebates and grants for alternative energy renovations and construction in their mansions and vacation homes on taxpayer provided money.

Taxes collected from both the rich and the poor should not benefit the wealthy who can take advantage of rebate laws.

Mr. Gregware provides several poignant examples of this waste of taxpayer money on wealthy individuals. The editorial is straight-forward but not mean-spirited.

I will be contacting Mr. Gregware asking permission to post his entire editorial on my blog.

Keep in mind I am not attacking or criticizing anyone with money or success, however, do you really think that Larry Hagman (Dallas, I Dream of Jeanie fame), who has made millions of dollars in his lifetime, needs to be compensated nearly 50% of the $700,000.00 solar panel system he has installed on his 40+ acres in California? I wonder if the money that Mr. Hagman makes from the sale of excess power, gets returned to California and Federal taxpayers, or at least donated to charities?

In many of the articles I have posted, I have spoken about the high cost of the technology and alternative energy products sold today. I have also written about companies that offer to install and maintain solar panels on your rooftops for a monthly fee.

I stated and stand firmly, "why trade one energy czar for another"?

Prices need to fall on solar panels, batteries, wind turbines and other "alternative energy technology" products before the average household can take advantage of them.

But what can one do if one does not have the money for the alternative energy products today?

I have focused on passive solar because there are many easy do-it-yourself projects that any home can take advantage of, at cost effective prices, usually only materials and your own labor.

Additionally, I have written about sustainable living practices that will help develop a self-reliant attitude and practices, rain water harvesting, storage and use for example.

Starting a home or community garden will help offset higher prices at the markets due to fuel or food price increases while providing a more nutritious vegetable or fruit for you and your family.

Many families are rediscovering home gardening. Learning how to bake from scratch and to preserve fruits and vegetables grown in your own garden will help any family save money and feel and be more self-reliant.

Are you unable to have a garden? Buying local produce from a Farmer's Market will help someone trying to support a family living in a rural economic community, while providing us with fresh produce, eggs, honey, preserves, bread and dairy products (organic milk, yogurt, cheese).

Brett