The Future of Power Generation
 State of Florida Promotes Solar Energy

On July 13, 2007, Florida Governor Charlie Crist signed a suite of executive orders aimed at reducing Florida's greenhouse gas emissions, increasing energy efficiency, and removing market barriers for renewable energy technologies such as solar and wind. Since then, Florida has stepped onto the world stage as a major marketplace for advanced energy technologies.

In accordance with the executive orders and the 2006 Florida Energy Act, The Florida Solar Energy System Incentive Program provides rebates for the purchase and installation of solar energy systems in homes ...

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 Need to beat the heat?
 Circulate the cool

A surefire way to save energy this summer is to kick that thermostat up a few notches. If just the thought of doing that makes you start sweating, read on: You can keep your cool at that higher temperature by turning on a ceiling fan.

The fan circulates the air, and you can feel the movement on your skin. Your room won't be any cooler, but you will feel cooler in that room.

Ceiling fans aren't the bland fixtures they once were. Blades now come in painted, metallic or wood finishes to match your décor. Some manufacturers make two-sided blades that you can flip over whenever you want a new look.

Many also combine the fan with lighting. You can choose from traditional "downlighting" or more modern "uplighting," which bounces the light off the ceiling to diffuse it and make it softer. Follow these tips for choosing the best ceiling fan for the room:

• The bigger the room, the longer the blades should be. A rule of thumb: For a room smaller than 100 square feet, like a bathroom, buy a fan with 32- to 36- inch blades. For a medium-sized bedroom or kitchen-up to about 225 square feet- you'll need blades measuring 42 to 48 inches. Large master bedrooms and dining rooms up to 485 square feet require 50- to 56-inch blades. Rooms larger than 600 square feet will need blades measuring 60 inches or more.
• Install the fan seven to eight feet from the floor.
• If your room has high ceilings, buy an extension "downrod" to lower the fan. For short ceilings, some manufacturers offer "close mount" fans.
• Don't mess with hard-to-reach cords. Connect your fan and/or light to a wall light switch or remote control.

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 Recipe of the Month
 Chili-lime Chicken Kabobs

Summer is the time for firing up your barbeque and grilling with family, friends and neighbors. I am sure that this Chili-lime chicken kabob recipe will sure be a crowd pleaser at your next get-together. Dont let the hot spices scare you away from trying this delicious dish!

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• cayenne pepper to taste
• salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
• skewers

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, and lime juice. Season with chili powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Place the chicken in a shallow baking dish with the sauce, and stir to coat. Cover, and marinate in the refrigerator at least 1 hour.
2. Preheat the grill for medium-high heat. Thread chicken onto skewers, and discard marinade.
3. Lightly oil the grill grate. Grill skewers for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken juices run clear.

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 Efficiency Tip of the Month