At Vagabond Ranch we view sustainability as not merely a technical issue, but a behavioral one as well. Unsustainable behavior comes from an “unsustainable” state of mind. Synchronizing mind and body is the way to uncover our natural sate of mind that is stable, interconnected, and among other things sustainable. Read an article by Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche on sustainability.
Completed Projects:
The Vagabond Ranch produces its own heat and power from propane with supplemental with solar electric. Upgrades completed between 2009 and 2011 include:
Energy Audit and efficiency measures on three winterized log structures
Solar heating panels for pool heat
Replace battery bank with new gel pack system
New Inverter and chargers tripling generator efficiency
Study feasibility and acquire permits for Micro-hydro-electric system
Solar thermal heat for Overlook
Two composting toilets
Result:
Our 2011 carbon emissions from propane in 2011 were 63,960.71 lbs. less than 2009. During that same period use has quadrupled indicating a significant increase in efficiency. CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE GRAPHS.
Grants:
Energy efficiency in heating was supported by a grant from the USDA Rural Development program. We have applied for a Federal Treasury Grant in Renewable Energy to support the efficiency efforts in our power production.
Future Projects:
We have permits and plans for a micro hydro electrical generation system that will produce power and heat year round displacing as much propane as possible. Preliminary pond work will begin in 2011 with completion expected summer of 2012. We are applying for a USDA grant and loan guarantee on this project.
Improving efficiency is an ongoing project.
New and remodeled cabins will be designed not to increase the load on the central heat and power system.
You can help by:
Separating your recycling, and bringing it home if possible.
Conserving water, one of our largest energy loads.
Turning off unused lights and heat. Double checking before you leave.
Pausing, breathing, and feeling your inner sustainability.
At Vagabond Ranch we view sustainability as not merely a technical issue, but a behavioral one as well. Unsustainable behavior comes from an “unsustainable” state of mind. Synchronizing mind and body is the way to uncover our natural sate of mind that is stable, interconnected, and among other things sustainable. Read an article by Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche on sustainability.
Completed Projects:
The Vagabond Ranch produces its own heat and power from propane with supplemental with solar electric. Upgrades completed between 2009 and 2011 include:
Result:
Our 2011 carbon emissions from propane in 2011 were 63,960.71 lbs. less than 2009. During that same period use has quadrupled indicating a significant increase in efficiency. CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE GRAPHS.
Grants:
Energy efficiency in heating was supported by a grant from the USDA Rural Development program. We have applied for a Federal Treasury Grant in Renewable Energy to support the efficiency efforts in our power production.
Future Projects:
You can help by: