There are many reasons we are looking towards alternative energy sources. Alternative, or renewable energy, sources show significant promise in helping to reduce the amount of toxins that are created in our normal energy consumption.

Not only do they protect against these harmful by-products, but using alternative energy helps to preserve many of the natural resources that we currently use as sources of energy. It is also proven to show significant cost savings.

To help us conserve the non-renewable energy sources like fossil fuels, and reduce our carbon footprints it is important to know what types of alternative energy is out there. Wind power and Solar power are the most common and cost effective for the home, as mentioned below.
 
Wind Power
Wind energy is produced by wind turbines. The rotation of the blades on the turbine is caused by the wind, and converted into electricity by a generator.

In commercial installations, large wind towers are usually build together, sometimes even offshore, and are referred to as wind farms. With most countries responsible for having renewable energy as a percentage of their overall energy generated, these are likely to be a more common sight in the forseeable future.
You can also get home turbine garden kits. Although these can be used in most locations, there are some that are better than others - usually those in open spaces, since the more the wind blows, the more energy is created.

Wind power produces no pollution that can contaminate the environment, Since no chemical processes take place, like in the burning of fossil fuels, in wind power generation, there are no harmful by-products left over. Also, lets remember, Since wind generation is a renewable source of energy (as long as the wind is blowing!), we will never run out of it.
 
Solar Power
Solar energy is commonly used for heating, cooking, and the production of electricity. It works by trapping the sun's rays into special solar cells or panels where this sunlight is then converted into electricity. In heating systems, solar power uses sunlight that hits solar thermal panels to convert sunlight to heat water or air.
 
Typically, you can often get calculors that have a small solar panel on them, its a similar method to using one at home. On a sunny day, one panel can generate enough electricity to power a 100w bulb.
 
Solar power is another renewable resource - as long as the Sun exists. Of course, at nighttime, then there will be no power generated. Solar power generation releases no water or air pollution, because there is no chemical reaction from the combustion of fuels. buying a new appliance such as a washing machine, tumble dryer or fridge you can find information on their energy efficiency by checking the Energy label. All appliances must now display this information.