The bestselling alternative energy reference book in North America--now in an updated edition

Want to take advantage of solar power in your home? Whether you're looking to save on your energy costs by adding a few solar components or you want to build a solar-powered house from the ground up, "Solar Power For Dummies, 2nd Edition" takes the mystery out of this energy source and shows you how to put it to work for you

This new edition gives you hands-on tips and techniques for making your home more energy-efficient though solar power--and helping the planet at the same time. Plus, you'll get all the latest information on changes to federal, state, and local regulations, laws, and tax incentives that seek to make solar-power adoption more feasible.Expanded coverage of the technology that underpins full-scale solar-power systems for the homeNew small- and mid-sized solar products, projects, and applicationsRik DeGunther is a design engineer who started his own energy consulting firm

Featuring ten of the easiest and cheapest DIY solar projects, "Solar Power For Dummies, 2nd Edition" is the fun and easy way to meet your energy needs with this clean power source

Get the truth about alternative energy and make it part of your life

Want to utilize cleaner, greener types of energy? This plain-English guide clearly explains the popular forms of alternative energy that you can use in your home, your car, and more. Separating myth from fact, this resource explores the current fossil fuel conundrum, the benefits of alternatives, and the energy of the future, such as hydrogen and fuel cell technology.

The ABCs of alternative energy -- what it is, how it works, and what the real costs are

Where we are now -- learn where our current energy comes from and how much longer it will last

Take the first step -- see how energy efficiency and conservation can reduce your reliance on fossil fuels

Grasp the alternatives -- from nuclear power to geothermal energy to wood burning, understand the benefits that alternative energy can have on the nation

Apply alternative fuels to transportation -- from biofuels to exotic propulsion to electricity, see how they are best used and how hybrid, all-electric, and fuel cell-powered vehicles work

Get a peek into the future -- see what the outlook holds for each form of alternative energy discussed

Open the book and find:

The pros and cons of alternative energy

A review of the current world energy economy

The problems with fossil fuels, from smog to global warming

Advantages of alternative energy

Practical results of alternatives you can use in daily life

Guidelines for investing in alternative energy vehicles

Ten ways you can bring about change right now

Insight into the future of energy production -- and how you can invest in it