For those considering making energy efficiency upgrades or installing renewable energy systems, this compilation of guides, toolkits, cost calculators and maps is made just for you. Visit our Energy Conservation and Efficiency Guide and Solar Energy Installation Guide below to check out the steps we suggest for making your own personalized clean energy plan. If you need additional information, more helpful resources can be found by searching the database below.
Install & Invest Resource Database
Resource | Source and Description | Audience | Topic | Type | Additional Tags | File |
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Lighting Your House |
A 2-page factsheet explaining the potential savings of switching to LED light bulbs in the home, with tips for selecting the right bulbs |
Factsheet |
Download (774.68 KB) |
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Living Comfortably: A Consumer's Guide to Home Energy Upgrades |
This guide from the Department of Energy serves as a starting place for consumers seeking to learn the basics of air sealing, insulation, appliance energy usage and choosing a professional energy auditor. |
Guide or Toolkit |
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Lowering Your Electric Bill |
Blog by Advanced Energy including a breakdown of typical home energy use, as well as the most effective low- and high-cost improvements |
General |
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Microhydro Equipment & Design |
This article from issue #181 of Home Power Magazine covers the process of installing a microhydropower system, from the intake to power electronics. |
Guide or Toolkit |
Download (3.43 MB) |
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Microhydro Factsheet |
Factsheet explaining microhydropower technology, site assessments, informational resources and western North Carolina installers |
Factsheet Guide or Toolkit |
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Microhydropower Systems |
Learn about the different components and types of turbines used in a microhydro system. |
General |
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Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS) |
MACRS is a U.S. tax policy allowing businesses to recover investments in certain renewable energy technology systems through depreciation deductions. |
Policy or Regulation |
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N.C. Building Performance Association — Member Directory |
Directory of NCBPA-associated installers, contractors, auditors, nonprofits and consultants for a variety of building performance needs |
Guide or Toolkit |
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NABCEP — Associate Directory |
Directory of NABCEP-certified solar PV, solar thermal and small wind energy professionals |
Guide or Toolkit |
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National Agricultural Library — Energy Resources |
List of resources exploring types of renewable energy, energy policy, energy funding and energy efficiency for sustainable agriculture practices |
Report Factsheet Policy or Regulation Guide or Toolkit |