Dan Valley, owner, V4 Energy
I spent most of my life with nature in the state of Michigan. As an employee of the U. S. Forest Service for 31 years, I had the good fortune to see on a daily basis our natural resources and the importance of protecting those resources.
In July 2008, Devon O'Shea from Contractors Building Supply designed a 1.05kW solar electric (PV) system for my home in
Cadillac, Michigan. I assisted Devon in the installation of my custom designed system.
It was then that I gained an interest in beginning my own renewable energy business. Working with Devon I learned how easy it is for the average homeowner to take advantage of the free energy the sun provides.
After retiring from many years with the
U. S Forest Service I want to help others in their efforts to be more efficient in their use of energy and become producers of clean energy.
In my own home I have implemented many conservation methods. Simple methods such as:
- replacing doors with more efficient, better sealed doors
- insulated duct work
- advanced chimney damper
- cfl's & led's throughout the house
- insulated rim joists with insulated blankets
- added 1 1/2" foam on the basement walls
- replaced appliances with Energy Star approved appliances
- insulated water lines
- and other energy efficiency measures
These methods have helped contribute to a
61% reduction in dollars spent on energy.
My kilowatt usage has decreased by over 50%.
I am always looking for new ways to reduce my energy usage so that my PV system can be more effective. I recently added a fireplace wood stove insert, EPA qualified. In April 2009 I installed an additional 6 solar panels. I now have a 2.1 Kw system. I net metered for the May billing period. I created 6 more KWH's than I used. I also just recently produced my first batch of biodiesel fuel.
You will find that once your solar panels are installed and you are able to monitor your energy production, it becomes a game to see how much you can reduce your electric needs to get closer and closer to producing all your own power needs!!! If you are a "
snowbird" and enjoy the beautiful resort area of Cadillac, Michigan during the summers and head south for the winter, you will find
great benefits to adding renewable energy to your home. Wouldn't it be great to know that while you are vacationing in the warm climates, your summer home is at work for you, spinning your meter backwards?
Contact me today to learn more about what I have done to reduce my energy bills and receive an even greater benefit from my solar electric system!