British Gas recently announced an immediate price increase of 35%. This is just the latest in a round of price increases from energy suppliers in the UK. It is the same story in other parts of the world. As fuel costs rise, oil  in particular and fossil fuels become more scarce, there is only one way power prices are going to go.

Of course the burning of fossil fuels is undesirable anyway adding greatly to the greenhouse effect and damaging the ozone layer but what is to be done?

The politicians appear to have turned full circle and are now advocating the use of nuclear energy. Again in the UK, new nuclear power stations are on the drawing board. Whilst throughout Europe nuclear power is generating more of our electricity.

In the USA according to the very latest press release more power stations are required many of them will be nuclear.

 The Bush administration encourages investment in all renewable energy, including nuclear power generation, in order to reduce U.S. dependence on imports of crude oil. The administration provides incentives on the taxation side for that purpose. Do people really want more nuclear power? I have my doubts. The cost of construction not to mention the long term costs of de-commissioning.

So what are we as citizens going to do about it? The majority I guess will do nothing. We will continue to pollute the atmosphere or endanger our planet with more nuclear power plants and pay  ever increasing costs to the energy providers. There is however an alternative, if we are prepared to act. Yes we can generate our own power. Even generate enough to sell it back to the power companies. How cool is that?

Now there are lots of companies out there who will supply "Solar Panels" for your roof and despite the initial cost it's a pretty good idea. Or You could plump for "Wind Power" again a really good idea. But I think the initial investment will deter most of us, at least for the present.

Now here is the really cool way....Build your own power plant!  Yes I know it sounds a bit nutty, but here me out. I heard of a  guy called Michael Harvey, a real "Renewable Energy Enthusiast" who not only did just that, built the whole thing himself for under $200 but has written a complete guide with blueprints, illustrated plans, everything and it works. He calls it earth4energy. Michael not only built his own power plant but gave his guide to several test subjects. Every one of whom was able to generate enough electricity to power their household appliances. Well I don't know about you but if we want to save this planet and in these difficult economic times, save some money too. Then this just might have wings.