Renewable resources utilizing solar energy and wind power are becoming more affordable for Colorado homeowners.

Going green is simpler — and becoming cheaper — for homeowners. Doing the right thing for the environment has been too expensive for the average homeowner. Today, it is more cost effective to install solar panels, recycle, use more energy-efficient lighting and do simple tasks that could save you money.

Since Amendment 37 passed four years ago to spur renewable energy resources in Colorado, business-run companies in that category have soared, according to Jeff Scott, President of SolSource.

“Ninety-five to 98 percent of our clients are homeowners,” Scott says. “The businesses obviously have deeper pockets and have better accessibility to the federal tax credits than most home owners do. But we’re seeing more customers in the residential market who are really just trying to do the right thing and provide something different for their home. A lot of home builders are selling a lot of their homes that have solar and not selling homes that don’t have solar.”

Amendment 37 requires public utilities to obtain certain amounts of renewable energy through solar and wind power.

“The rebates in Amendment 37 guaranteed Coloradans a great price for solar,” says Tom Plant, director of the Governor’s Energy Office. “In 2007, Gov. Ritter expanded the reach of Amendment 37 beyond just the Xcel territory, so now the entire state of Colorado shares in the benefits of renewable energy.”

“The best defense against rising costs is to have an energy-efficient home and then to incorporate renewable energy sources such as solar and wind,” Plant adds.

Technological advances have made solar power more accessible and aesthetically pleasing than the clunky, large roof panels of the past.

“Solar thermal panels are much more efficient and effective,” Scott adds. “(Another) major advantage, in this utility district pays a tremendous, sizeable rebate for solar electric which we won’t have around forever. It was intended to jumpstart the industry so people need to take advantage of it. So, timing is everything.”

Federal tax credits are aimed at commercial ventures, and what few residential rebates there currently are will run out at the end of 2008. But, as Scott points out, “it is an election year” and the public is pushing for renewable energy. “Corporate America is doing solar, so the government needs to catch up.”

Wind power is another part of the equation to provide cleaner and cheaper energy than coal, natural gas or electricity, but the wind turbines require large spaces, such as farms on the Eastern Plains. Still, Scott notes, wind power is “slowly becoming an increasing important part … (and) the technology has improved. The only caveat is finding the best place to put it.”

Simple ways to go green:
• When your bulbs burn out, replace them with energy-efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs.
• Bring reusable cloth bags to carry groceries. (Some stores offer discounts for cloth bags.)
• When walking your dog, use biodegradable bags to pick up their poop.
• Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth or shaving in the shower.
• Run the dishwasher or washing machine only when full.
• Washing your clothes in cold water.
• Use a bucket to catch shower water and re-use for plants or your lawn.
• Set your water heater at the “A” or 120-degree level.
• Use a ceiling fan to cool a room or home.
• Install a programmable thermostat.
• Recycle newspapers, cans, glass and plastic. Complete the cycle by purchasing recycled products.
• Install solar panels to harness electricity and heat your home.
• Look for green replacement options for your home at lowimpactliving.com.

Other helpful Web sites for green home products: happyhippie.com; greenhome.com; worldwise.com; lifegoggles.com; organicconsumers.org (includes Colorado products); amazingrecycled.com