I wrote a while back about the availability of green products in America vs. Europe. It’s true that America is a bit behind in offering eco-friendly products, but I think that tide is turning. In fact, I just visited a newly opened store in my local mall that’s called All Things ReNewable. This store offers a wide array of clothing, bags, books, electronics, garden materials as well as solar and wind power options.

I had been researching wind power, and was thrilled to see that this local store carries the Skystream personal windmill. It’s a neat looking unit with swept blades that is sold as unit along with a 30-foot mast. The windmill can generate 300 to 400 kilowatt hours of energy per months at a cost of roughly $12,000. The energy savings is about $50 to $75 per month, so it’s not something that will quickly pay for itself.

Wind combined with solar is a good combination, particularly in areas of high or sustained winds. The Denver metro area isn’t the best place for one of these. In fact, according to this map, it’s actually a poor spot for wind power. But it would sure make for some interesting yard art if I were to win the lotto.

I’m going to be certain to go back and visit this store again to see all that they offer. I think a solar water heater might be the first good step to adding a renewable component to my personal energy intake. They had a few units on display that I’m going to have to learn more about.

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