Put That Sun to Work

It is officially summer now, and the sun is out in force here in Arkansas. At times, the sun and heat can seem awfully oppressive, but one way to feel better about them is to put them to use! Here are three books that can help you do that:

• The Homeowner's Guide to Energy Independence: Alternative power sources for the average American by Christine Woodside (TJ 163.5 .D86 W674 2005) is an introduction to the many ways consumers can cut their reliance on fossil fuels and save money at the same time. Many of the suggestions are inexpensive to implement (use a clothesline to dry laundry, instead of the dryer), although Woodside does discuss pricier options like solar panels and how to build your own backyard stream power plant.
• Solar Power Your Home for Dummies by Rik DeGunther (TH 7414 .D45 2008) covers all the aspects of solar power in an easy to understand format. Along with discussions of a variety of possible projects, which ones can be done by a do-it-yourselfer, and when to hire an expert, there is a section on financing the projects.
• For a more in-depth look at solar power and sustainable living, check out Solar Living Source Book by John Schaeffer (TJ 810 .G35 2008). Covering far more than either of the previous books, this comprehensive volume "will be your most important tool in turning your dream of energy independence into a delightful daily reality." While you may not be interested in going that far, the ideas Schaeffer provides can help reduce your footprint, and lighten the load on your pocketbook.