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Be smart with your energy options

The Power We Need to Live

Energy runs the world. It powers our homes, our businesses, our hospitals, our transportation, our communities. That demand for energy creates challenges and questions. Which energy source is right for your family? How do you know you're making the smart choices for today and tomorrow? Who can you trust? Illinois Extension is here to provide the background and information you need to make informed decisions. Whatever you choose, choose with confidence that knowledge brings.

Sources of Energy

Which will you choose?
ethanol being produced from corn to make fuel

Bioenergy

Ethanol is a grain alcohol that can be blended with gasoline and used in motor vehicles. Ethanol can be fermented from many sources of starch, including corn, wheat, grain sorghum, barley, and potatoes, and from sugar crops such as sugar cane and sweet sorghum. 

Ethanol Website

geothermal illustration of closed pump system

Geothermal

Using internal heat from the earth as a source of power is called geothermal energy. Geothermal energy can be harnessed for residential, commercial and educational use. 

Geothermal Website

 

person installing solar panels on home

Solar Energy

As renewable energy production is increasing in popularity, opportunities to incorporate solar panels on your home have become more available and affordable. But what is the right system for your home and will it save you money?

Solar Energy Website

Solar Energy for the Home: Is it right for you? | Everyday Environment

Is solar energy right for you? As renewable energy production is increasing in popularity, opportunities to incorporate solar panels on your home have become more available and affordable. In this webinar, University of Illinois Extension Energy & Environmental Stewardship Educator Erin...

Ask us how we can help

Staff photo Shiba Kar

Shiba 'Shibu' Kar

Assistant Dean: Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy Program Leader. Associate Director of Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant
Keywords
Environment
Energy
Master Naturalist
Forestry
Water
Invasive Species
Pollinator Habitat
Perennials
Grasses
Administration
Leadership
(217) 333-1234

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