Customer Reviews

The Homeowners Guide to Energy Independence: Alternative Power Sources for the Average American

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(4)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I was hoping to get a book that gave me some practical steps and references in order to achieve the energy independence I desire. Instead, it was a book of theoreticals and broad ranging ideas. When I think of a guide, I think of a "how to" manual. This book is anything but that. If you're looking for a book that scratches the surface on the topic, in an attempt to learn more about the concept of energy independence, then have at it. If you want something meatier, look elsewhere.

I found this book rather disappointing, having expected more nuts-and-bolts details on how to get off the grid. A lot of the book is just rehash of stuff we've all read before (including a 9-page speech by a politician... ho-hum!) and there are many errors. Compact fluorescents don't cost $11 (it's closer to $5). The discussion of hybrid cars is confusing (the "payback times" are largely meaningless and compare apples with oranges). I'd have liked some information on the complicated tax credits for hybrids in this year's law. Having said all this negative stuff, I'll give the book credit for being a convincing "pep talk" for getting active in energy conservation. It nudged me into stocking up on compact fluorescents, which will pay back the price of the book in a few months!

Energy supplies have been an interest of mine since college days in the 70s, but rising prices have made it a lot more personal. We've recently concluded the time has come to consider retooling our home heating. This book brought me up to date on the current picture and gave me lots of alternatives to consider. As a result of reading, we will be looking into a geothermal system. Book fulfills its promise to offer alternatives for "average" people -- even if its just awareness that the simplest, quickest alternative is to rethink and reduce your current energy uses. Written with a very clear, easy-to-read style.

This book gives just the right level of detail to get homeowners going with renewable energy. It gives the right level of detail to make financial and behavioral decisions. I liked the large number of references, as well--they give the reader the ability to look into particular subjects with more detail.

This book covers all the bases without getting to lengthy and losing the reader's interest. It will get you informed and then get you on your way.

This book covers all of the basics that you need to know. I was particularly interested in the solar stuff. The author explains how you can save and avoids being too technical. Highly recommended. Truthfully, this is the kind of book that should be required reading for every home builder, home owner, and school kid.

There's a lot of worry that fossil fuels are running out, and THE HOMEOWNER'S GUIDE TO ENERGY INDEPENDENCE: ALTERNATIVE POWER SOURCES FOR THE AVERAGE AMERICAN will prove the answer for many who wish to 'get off the grid'. It covers and assesses the most viable, affordable alternative sources from solar panels and wind generators to geothermal heat pumps, showing homeowners how they can compliment energy requirements with alternative technologies. From initial investment costs to realizing real profits down the line, this is the item of choice for any who strive to abandon the grid.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

Homeowners interested in sustainable living will want to delve into this book, which will give them the basics to begin thinking about alternative energy.

This is a great book for those who are looking at this topic for the first time. I wld recommend it to those who have just developed an interest in this area. It gives a basic overview & should wet the tastebuds for more - further information & weblinks are given in the back.

This book is good for someone who needs an introduction to the ideas of energy conservation and alternative energy technologies. It gives an overview of the basics. It's an easy read and helpful to give you an idea of what is out there.

That said, I was hoping for a bit more depth and technical information. Most of the book seemed very superficial just giving you the most basic information about the technologies and not delving into the nuts and bolts, exploring research or providing examples of unique ways people have used these technologies (a few examples are given but they are not particularly informative or interesting).

Again, this is basically just an introduction and most of the information you can find on the net.

A great title like this should be written by someone with experience in the field. There are a lot of sources from this guy named.... or this person from... This seems like someone just wanted to get a paycheck for writing a book on a hot topic.