Thursday, January 7, 2010

Green Energy Isn't Always What It Seems

By Robert Holdsworth

Buyer Beware - Using Power Factor Correction and Transient Voltage Surge Suppression to Reduce Energy Costs.

Today's energy conscious climate has motivated many to do what they can to become more efficient and conserve energy and money. Unfortunately this same climate has prompted others to take advantage of unsuspecting consumers' wishes to save energy and reduce expenses.

Companies that tout power factor improvement (kVAR correction) and transient voltage suppression are a good example of this bad trend. Lately we are seeing more and more of these companies cropping up and feel it is time to set the record straight.

First, transient voltage surge suppression (TVSS) plays a valuable role in improving power quality to protect sensitive equipment inside a facility. However, TVSS does not save energy. TVSS's are only active a tiny fraction of a second to protect against voltage surges which only last for less than a millisecond. To actually reduce energy consumption the TVSS would need to actually cut power consumption for an extended period of time which is not what they are designed to do. Again, TVSS is important to protect sensitive electrical equipment but buyers should avoid vendors promising, or even guaranteeing, that they will reduce energy consumption.

Now what about vendors who claim that improving power factor will save 15% or 20% or 30% of energy consumption and corresponding cost? This one is a little trickier.

For residential applications, power factor does nothing to save energy because the typical home already has an average power factor of about 0.97 which is almost the perfect power factor of 1 or unity. In addition, the device (called a capacitor) is placed at the main circuit breaker. According to IEEE 5.5.3.3 capacitors must be situated at or near the respective inductive loads to reduce power system losses by reducing heat and distribution losses known as I2R losses.

So what about commercial and industrial facilities using power factor correction to reduce energy costs? It is perfectly appropriate for a company that is incurring penalties or a kVA billing structure from the utility company to improve the facility's overall power factor by employing a capacitor bank at the main service entrance or individual capacitors at or near the respective motor loads. Doing so will eliminate the power factor penalties and/or reduce the kVA demand charges on the utility bill which can save significant money and provide a significant ROI on the investment.

But what about power factor correction reducing kWh consumption? IEEE also tells us that I2R losses only account for 2 to 5% of the total load in a facility. Simple math tells us that it would be against the laws of physics to get the 15% to 30% energy reduction claimed by some vendors. Think about it. Even if your facility had 5% distribution losses and you could correct 100% of the problem via power factor correction at every load (which can't be done) you would still only save 5% at the most. No where near the claims of some capacitor vendors and manufacturers.

All that said, power factor correction when done properly will eliminate utility penalties and kVA demand charges, improve facility power quality, increase electrical system capacity, and save a little energy when applied to the appropriate motor loads.

So make an investment in transient voltage surge suppression and power factor correction when appropriate and necessary. But caveat emptor!

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Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Shopping For Car Insurance

By Graham McKenzie

The media is full of advertisements for auto insurance. Being able to get a quick quote has become very popular. Before you decide to attempt your car insurance quoting endeavor, check out the five steps below to get the best quote:

1) There are the car insurance companies that will gladly compete for your concern. Obtain car indemnity quotes from at least five car indemnity companies. After all, most people store around before making a chief attain, it only makes substance to shop around when looking for car insurance quotes.

2) When rich out the crucial information to gain car indemnity quotes, be certain the information you present is accurate. Car indemnity companies cultivate to find out 'gear' anyhow, so you might as well be as accurate as workable. Car insurance quotes are only as good as the information winning which they were calculated. It's important that the information you use to obtain your reference is the same information the car cover party will use when letters your document.

3) Obtaining car insurance quotes will usually expect that you accept information such that a 'salesperson' will be contacting you sometime after you sense the quotes. It's important that you don't let this character colloquy you into purchasing a car indemnity procedure awaiting you have usual car indemnity quotes from all the assurance companies you're researching. You don't indigence to be rude, but easily notify the 'salesperson' that your study is not yet complete and you won't be making a resolve today.

4) After you get all of the quotes, narrow down your list to the best two. Then, it is time to do some serious research, and look into each company in a much more thorough manner. This is the time to make absolutely sure that you will be getting what you thought you were paying for, and to read the fine print. You may discover some surprises.

5) Keep in mind that you are the person in charge of your car insurance quotes and purchase. If you were accurate in submitting your information, then the actual rate of your car insurance policy should be very close to the quote you were given. Don't allow yourself to be taken by a car insurance company that will offer you an attractive car insurance quote and then later when issuing the policy give you a price that is way over and above what you were expecting.

Remember that as the customer, you are the one in control of your car insurance purchase. If after following the steps, you are not happy with the rate or service you receive, then there are many other car insurance companies out there that will be happy to have your business. Just follow the five steps outlined above to get the best possible policy and price.

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Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Home Loans During A Recession? The True Boogie Monster

By Tom Martens

A recession brings about economic uncertainty, because consumers are not willing to spend money, and banks are not always willing to lend it. But part of that is hearsay, as a recession is a great time to take out a loan.

Recessions represent an ideal time to take out a home loan because banks are more willing to offer cheaper interest rates. The cheaper rate can save the buyer thousands of dollars over the duration of the loan. Who doesn't want that?

A high credit score is your key to getting in. Do not have a high credit score' Especially during a recession your chances of getting approved are very low and even if you are approved, the interest rates will be extraordinarily.

A strong credit score will not do without money in the bank. Make sure you have least 20% of the property's total value in the bank. Also allow money in the bank for two to three months payments of the loan. These steps are required by the lender.

Always carry documents that verify employment, income, and assets. The individual cannot simply tell the lender he has a job and expect to win the loan. No, documentation includes paycheck stubs and bank account statements.

This documentation is even more important if you are applying for a home loan during a recession because you need to prove to the lender that you can afford the home loan and will make your monthly home loan payments. Be prepared to provide at least three months worth of documentation. Collect the necessary documentation and have it on hand prior to applying for the home loan in order to speed up the application and approval process.

Although the current economy does not look promising, do not fear the chance of earning a loan. Home loaners still need business, but they will remain more selective until the economy changes. Inform the lender that you are speaking with other lenders and they will be more inclined to offer a cheaper deal.

Buying a home is time consuming and intimidating, but a lot of that stress is reduced with the appropriate steps already conducted by the prospective home owner. This includes a strong credit report and proof of available funds.

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Monday, January 4, 2010

Classic Car Insurance Tips

By Graham McKenzie

A classic car is a sizeable investment. You need to protect that investment by making sure the car is properly insured. The coverage you need will depend on how you use the car.

There are three types of classic car coverage. The most common coverage is for actual cash, or bluebook, value. In the event of a loss, this kind of coverage pays out the purchase price of the car less depreciation. State value, on the other hand, allows the owner to declare a value for the car that is greater than the book value. And agreed value ensures that the owners of classic vehicles will get all their money value even if the car is a total loss.

These types of insurance are offered through a standard insurance provider. The owner of a classic car should also consider a classic car insurance policy. These policies can be cheaper and less restrictive than a standard car insurance policy. Some classic car insurance policies require the driver to be 25 years or older. Some programs even require the driver be at least 30 years old. Classic car insurance programs could also limit the amount of driving you do to 2,500 miles or less a year. Annual odometer readings could also be required. The insurance provider will give you specific information on what requirements need to be met in order to insure your classic car.

Whether you choose a standard car insurance policy or a classic car insurance policy, make sure you find an insurance policy with flexible usage guidelines. You want to make sure the car insurance policy is flexible enough to meet your needs while providing adequate coverage to protect your investment. Many insurance providers offer mileage programs for classic cars, which tend to be driven less than other vehicles. Some programs will allow the driver to drop down their premium if they only drive the classic car a certain number of months a year. This is an option to consider if you keep the classic car in storage for part of the year.

When it's time to choose a car insurance provider, do your research. Make sure you find a car insurance provider with the knowledge and experience in insuring classic cars. You want to make sure your car insurance provider knows how to properly protect your classic car investment without taking advantage of you. Research both standard insurance providers and classic car insurance providers. Shop around and get more than one insurance quote. Compare quotes and see which provider offers you the best deal. Just make sure the policy offered meets your needs. You don't want to accept an insurance provider's offer because the price can't be beat, only to discover later that the insurance coverage is not what you need for your classic car and driving situation.

Regardless of what type of car insurance policy interests you, make sure you work with a qualified insurance provider. They can look at your exact situation and recommend the insurance product that will best suit your specific needs and protect your classic car investment the way it should be protected.

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Sunday, January 3, 2010

Private Placement Memorandum and OTCBB: Make Investors Come To You In Droves!

By James Scott

If you are trying to raise capital with a PPM or public entity like OTCBB you need to understand the mind of the investor. After the business plan sells the investor on the business concept you need to sell them on you and your executive staff. You need to stack your executive positions with professionals with a proven track record of success and possess a solid reputation in the industry. You must paint the picture for investors that your business is run by the who's who in your industry and this pedigree is demonstrated by your education, degree, grades in college, professional organizations of which you have been and are currently a member, advisory board positions with other corporate organizations, a track record of setting up and maintaining strategic alliances, networking contacts and more.

When an investor looks at your human resource list on your PPM, business plan or public offering docs it needs to scream power, authority and confidence. Each individual that you place on your advisory board must have a massive contribution other than 'advice'. Advisors should be able to prove their ability to assist in crucial decisions, connect your company with strategic partners and help you get to the next level.

Your legal counsel and CPA should be well known organizations with a long list of successful, well known organizations on their client roster and they should have a lot more to offer your company than just their fee based services. Again, these organizations should be able to set you up with partnerships that will help grow your business. As far as corporate awareness you must include a publicist. The publicist that you choose must be well versed in their comprehension of your industry genre.

They must be able to take your company and get you in front of the proper audience that is conducive to enhancing your growth potential. They must be able to demonstrate their knowledge of viral online marketing as well as traditional means of radio, TV and article promotion. They should be able to reach into their contact list and set you up with one interview after another targeting your specific audience.

These are just a few things to take into consideration when you jump on the fund raising trail. Every individual you have listed on your docs must be able to pass due diligence and have the appeal that reaches into the 'comfort' zone portion of the investor's mind.

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Saturday, January 2, 2010

Auto Insurance -Save On Auto Insurance

By Fred Gagnon

The law requires car owners to have auto insurance as owning and driving a car is associated with so many risks and liabilities.

What is an auto insurance?

Auto insurance is an agreement between an insured person or group and an insurance company. Its main purpose is to provide you and your car protection against losses and liabilities incurred as a result of accident. Also known as vehicle insurance, car insurance and motor insurance, it is an insurance purchased for vehicles like trucks and cars.

How does an auto insurance work?

The insurance person or group pays premiums to the insurance company. Premium is an amount of money charged for insurance coverage. In return, the insurance company as defined in the policy promises to pay compensation in the event of an accident or theft.

The insurance company issues the insured person or group a proof of insurance, which will be presented if the insured person or group gets involved in an accident or is stopped by law enforcement officials while driving. The proof of insurance serves as evidence that the vehicle is insured for a particular period of time.

Although some auto insurances are required by law, others are optional for car owners. Some have higher premiums like sports car and expensive cars.

The insurance coverage has a very specific insurance policy. Usually, auto insurance gives medical coverage, liability coverage and property coverage. Medical coverage provides payment for medical treatment and rehabilitation as well as lost wages and funeral expenses. Liability coverage pays for the legal responsibility of the car owner to others for property damage or bodily injury. Property coverage pays for damage to or theft of the insured car.

In the US, each and every one of the 50 states have a differing auto insurance law, costs and coverage requirements. Knowing your area's auto insurance laws, requirements and regulations gives you ample benefits. It gives you protection in times of vehicular accidents and saves you money on premiums of your car insurance policy.

Here are some tips:

1. To get the best deal possible, shop for insurance before buying a vehicle. To increase your chances of finding lower rates, compare insurance quotes first. Do this at least twice a year as rates are always changing and they vary from company to company.

2. Take advantage of discounts or premium reductions, or special insurance rates such as Low Mileage Discount, Good Student Discount, Multi-Car Discount, Safe Vehicle Discount and Good Driver Discount. Others include Age (being at least 25 years old), Good Credit Score and Use of Car Pooling and Public Transportation. You can also avail of discounts by purchasing other policies from the same company as well as by avoiding installment fees.

3. Know the different coverages. Avoid duplicate and unnecessary coverage. When adding physical coverage to a vehicle, consider higher deductibles.

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Friday, January 1, 2010

Thriving During The Hard Economic Times

By Jay Polmar

Want to thrive during these tough economic times? We are some of those who are thriving during these seemingly challenging times because we are driven with new business opportunities, increased revenues, things like new book deals, and stronger and healthier relationships that have more intimacy than we ever thought.

Why are we thriving, no matter what is going on in the world around us, while others seem to be challenged? The difference between those who are magnetizing their fair share of abundance to them, and those that are either only getting by or feeling stuck, is the vibration level " the frequency at which their own energy vibrates. When we turn on a higher frequency in our inner worlds, our outer world must mirror that back to us in anything we do!

The body is very much like a radio tower constantly transmitting thoughts and feelings on a specific frequency into the Universe. The thoughts and feelings you are having mentally create a vibration of energy that you send out throughout the universe. Then its reflected back to you by the Universe, producing results you can see, smell, taste and touch! Its an automatic manifesting machine and you cannot shut it off. It works according to the Law of Attraction and it will never stop working while you are still living and breathing. The only power you truly over it is to choose where to place your focus and your intention in this process " in the HERE AND NOW!

"Every type of focus, intense thought, visualization, emotional imagination, intention, all sets energy into motion. Whether you know it or not, energy is all there is." ~ Dr. Jay Polmar

If your body energy has been living in a heightened state of feeling free, substantial and in love with life as it is, you will attract all sorts of positive outcomes with effortless love in your life, you will attract the people and things you desire into your life.

If your body energy repeats everyday feelings of being afraid, not having enough or being (in any way) needy, you will manifest experiences that are very challenging. You do not want to focus in this direction, just release this old pattern of thinking and feeling, reprogram your vibration to FEEL alive and positive about everything in life! The key to being able to transform life is very simply to imagine it and walk into the frequency of a super positive way of thinking and feeling " its that easy, and everything will follow that natural path that you are creating.

Yes, you are a supernatural, yet quite natural, magnet, attracting to a anything you always focus on in your life; good or bad " its up to you. Do you know how to shift from negative to positive and, to stay positive. Thats was success with this system brings.

If you are not getting what you want out of life, its time to transform your vibration! You already have all the tools you need to shift your vibration and harness your own powers to manifest " 1) thought 2) vision 3) focus 4) feelings all you need is desire " passionate desire and watch how the Universe is helping you to naturally attract prosperity, better relationships, more opportunities, and everything else you really want.

If you order Dr. Polmars " The Course on Money, you will receive the first 4 monthly supplements on The Millionaire Mindset, and a Copy of the Millionaires Ten Commandments and Money, Power, and Sex to complete your learning from Dr. Jay Polmar, whos earned millions during his life, but dedicated his life to helping others become millionaires.

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