Heating water heaters in homes is amongst one of the most expensive household activities. Further than this, because of the rate of consumption, it isn't too clever for the planet either. Tackling both of these issues head on, green alternatives from solar and wind power sources are increasingly viable.

Though things have changed a little over the years, taking our power from the force of the wind and from the beams of the sun is nothing new. We need only look at history to tell use this. The sun in fact has been the power source and continues to be the power source for everything on the planet. This includes the wind itself and the fossil fuels which are burned. In more recent times though, new energy from it has been captured. Solar powered calculators being a case in point.

The wind as a force has been harnessed for millennia; from sail boats to windmills and a host of other things in between. Indeed, we now only have to take a glance at the windmills to have a glimpse of how technology is being used today.

Instead of being used to grind corn and push boats along though, huge turbines capture the force and through them, produce electricity in significant quantities. As such, there are large farms appearing in designated zones in the seas. Much the same is true of solar panel farms on the land that is baked by the sun many days a year. Solar panels are going on a longer journey though; to our very own satellite. Though still a fair few years away yet, it is looking extremely likely that the moon will be the home of humanity's largest ever solar panel farm. Time will tell to this end though, but less adventurous plans can be taken right back on terra firma. Domestic solar panel installations have been a huge success, particularly over recent years as technology has advanced. Further, home wind turbines too are being increasingly used, as people understand how best to exploit them. Both save money, both same the planet, which is a good thing!

The benefits to these systems are clear, whether to power those water heaters or to power a whole town. Before deciding on what to have done where though, it is always worth seeking an assessment and consultation. With many reputable solar and wind energy providers offering this too, readily findable online, perhaps the excuses are running out to act.