Individuals make a difference

Four and a half years ago our electricity bill was just on $100 per month. Now it has soared to just over $400 a month. We live in the same house with basically the same appliances etc. The rising cost of energy is clearly around us. We have dealt with it with our cars but the more subtle and less talked about home energy costs have also jumped leaps and bounds.

At the same time the effects of global warming, warmer oceans, more extreme weather, drought and storms is becoming more apparent and harder for the naysayers to deny. Summer started really early in Texas and many our areas this year, so the cumulative effect of rising energy costs and much warmer temperatures is keeping the fans and air conditioners running longer and harder.

The case for solar power must now start to make even more sense than before. The cost of the equipment is now getting to the point where the monthly savings pay for the equipment in around 3-4 years. After that you are ahead of the game. So where is the government in pushing solar power for government and private use? Clearly MIA!

The other big issue that is facing many communities is a reliable water supply. With the drought this year some areas are already struggling because the planning in the communities is absent and generally investment in infrastructure is way behind. We need to take care of ourselves since the leaders and politicians will not. Many folks are already using rain water capture systems to provide their water. Many are completely self sufficient. Assuming you have the space and your local rules do not prevent it; take a hard look at rain water capture to at least water you garden.

We can each make a difference as individuals. Using solar power and rainwater to make ourselves more self sufficient and less dependent on the politicians and big business.