Idon't consider myself a tree hugger, whale saver or master recycler. But recently I have found myself interested in Green Technology that helps the environment and saves me money. This month I'm sharing some of my favorites so you can join the fight against climate change while benefiting at the same time.

1. Compact florescent vs. LED light bulbs | http://www.1000bulbs.com/ — We should all know the benefits of using Compact Florescent Light (CFL) bulbs instead of regular incandescent bulbs. Lower power consumption (13-15 watts vs. 75 watts) and longer life means smaller power bills and a significant decrease in lighting costs. Cost savings for these bulbs typically repay the purchase price within six months. LED light bulbs take these benefits even further by reducing the wattage to 1-3 watts and increasing the life of the bulb to 30,000 hours for the same amount of light. Also, LED lights contain no mercury and therefore are safer for disposal.

2. Lutron Maestro dimmers | http://www.lutron.com/ — Sometimes you need the ability to dim the lights or you can't find an LED or CFL to fit your lighting needs. In these cases, using a dimmer is the right option. Lutron Maestro dimmers provide IR, wireless and three-way dimmer controls for every office and home application. I like the ability to lower the wattage to save on the power cost and extend the life of my lights. Using a dimmer you should be able to lower your power costs up to 40%.

3. LUMETA Power-Ply 380 solar panels | http://dricompanies.com/ — Getting off of the power grid is the envy of every green techie and DRI Energy's Lumeta solar panels have made it easier. What initially caught my eye was a video showing six thin panels being installed in just more than 30 minutes. Their unique rack-less install eliminates traditional mounting structures that penetrate your roof and add costly labor and time to the install. Another benefit is that any excess power can by put back into the public power grid to lower your regular costs or even put money in your pocket.

4. Air X Wind Generator from Southwest Windpower | http://www.windenergy.com/ — Many solar power owners augment their installations with wind power for those cloudy days. If rain and wind are normal in your location, the Air X Wind Generator from Southwest Windpower just might be what you need. Weighing 13 lbs. and featuring a 46-inch rotor diameter, this unit has an Air X microprocessor for increased battery charging capability, greater reliability, and lower flutter noise. Using a brushless alternator with only two moving parts will allow this maintenance-free wind turbine to be a quality source of power for years to come.

Regardless of your views on global warming, Al Gore and rising oil prices, green technology is becoming mainstream — driving the development and availability of better, less-costly solutions that are good for both the environment and the bottom line.

— The author is a freelance technologist focusing in business automation. Contact him at 801/592-2810 or visit his blog at http://www.tylerwhitaker.com/.