Though the vast majority of Bermudians realise the environmental benefits renewable energy can bring to our Island, many are still unaware of just how accessible the technology has become in recent years.Furthermore, the speed at which the field of renewable energy is advancing causes many to try and ‘wait it out’ until the next big breakthrough, much akin to delaying the purchase of a new computer in an effort to stay on the cutting edge. This tactic, while useful when buying a new iPod, has become much less effective since renewable energy took its place among the fastest growing industries in the world. With the technologies high rate of advancement, the best time to make the switch to renewable energy is certainly right now.If Bermuda is to continue its progression to a sustainable future, home and business owners across the Island need to think of the switch to renewable energy as an investment, not only environmentally but financially as well. It is important not to let today’s trying economy keep Bermuda’s citizens and environment from enjoying the benefits of renewable energy.The experts at PureNERGY are strong advocates for solar hot water systems as an affordable choice for the budding environmentalist.“We have placed a strong focus on making renewable energy technologies as accessible as possible to the average Bermudian, and feel that the solar hot water systems are an excellent introduction to renewable energy,” comments Vince Hunt, PureNERGY’s solar water heating programme manager.Solar hot water technology makes use of solar panels to collect energy produced by the sun, converting it into heat. This is in turn used to heat your building’s water supply on an as-needed basis.This efficient technology is an excellent way to reduce your dependency on traditional grid-based electricity without the need for an extensive overhaul of your building. Working in conjunction with your existing water heater, solar hot water systems require very little in the way of retrofitting, keeping installation costs to a minimum.Furthermore, in an effort to promote the use of renewable energy systems throughout the Island, the Bermuda Government now issues substantial rebates to those looking to install renewable energy systems in their homes or businesses. For solar water heaters, the government rebate can be up to $1,500 towards the cost of the system. This, combined with the 20 percent to 30 percent savings on your monthly electricity bills, makes solar hot water one of the most affordable renewable energy technologies available in Bermuda.PureNERGY offers these systems with very flexible service options, scaled to their client’s unique needs. Vince and the rest of the PureNERGY team are dedicated to providing renewable energy solutions designed to meet any budget. For additional information, give them a call at PureNERGY (299-2808 ext. 1823) or send an email to info[AT]purenergy.bm.Submitted by PureNERGY.