Northern Green: Everything Under the Sun

Offering a wide range of energy products, Northern Green, LLC, does everything from wind and solar products to composting toilets making the world greener and cleaner for the future.

Most alternative energy companies specialize in one type of energy, or offer a limited range of products and services, Northern Green LLC, retails everything from custom portable solar packages to wind turbines, and LED lighting to educational models and kits. They also offer a complete line of composting toilets, garden composters and other accessories.
Their best-selling and most comprehensive educational kit is the Renewable Energy Education Set (REES). This miniature renewable energy system includes a wind turbine, solar panel, electrolyzer, PEM fuel cell and a hydrogen storage system combined to create the world’s smallest green zone.  However, even this super science kit pales in comparison to the 10kW wind turbine that will be installed at a high school in Falmouth, Mass. Northern Green has partnered with Waterline Industries to complete this project. 
“There is a strong emphasis on education and the importance of teaching our youth about alternative energy options.” marketing director Stephanie Creech said.  “Because of this mindset, there is increased demand for the models and kits that demonstrate these technologies.”
The turbine is only one part of a variety of on-site renewable energy generation systems commissioned by the town. 
“This is a working 10kW wind turbine.  The other systems include a rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) array of approximately 13.5 kW and several wall-mounted solar PV arrays,” said Creech. “ Hybrid systems offer more efficient use of technology and guarantees more consistent power.  It’s all very smart.”
Aside from education in schools, Northern Green also educates adults about the choices they can make to incorporate alternative energy sources into their daily lives. 
“The Northern Green portable solar packages give everyone an opportunity to dabble in the concept of alternative energy without jumping in with both feet,” Creech said. “ It is a place to test the waters with little financial commitment.” 
For just under $30 you can have a solar mobile charger that provides a charging source for travelers, students and campers.  Homeowners can add exterior solar lighting in the form of yard and deck lights as well as the architecturally pleasing “LED 2 Light Lamp Post” for around $250.  Creech emphasizes that since there is no need to hire an electrician for hard wiring, solar powered lights are convenient for everyone.
“Let’s say you want to add light to the end of your driveway.  Traditionally you would need to hire an electrician to run the power, dig a trench to bury the line and pour a footing to secure the light.  With a solar powered lamp post all you need to do is pour a footing to secure the light.  There is no cost for an electrician and a calculable savings,” said Creech.
For customers who are more advanced in the green movement, she said that the best way to utilize renewable energy is to invest in a hybrid system combining solar and wind. 
Some communities have rules that may limit residents from investing in wind power. 
“There are land requirements and height restrictions.  Once you get past those you must also deal with the residents in your community who do not find a wind turbine appealing and try to ban them,” said Creech. “Not everyone wants a turbine in their backyard.  It is important to do your research and understand any opposition that might present itself before you consider your option.”
In contrast, the solar generators’ portable capability and quiet power generation has led to its rising popularity for off-grid event power.  Diesel generators were previously the product of choice for such events, but their noise and energy inefficiency have led to a decline in popularity.  Northern Green designs, builds, sells and rents portable solar generators including trailer to provide such power. 
Currently, Northern Green’s premier relationships exist with Bergey Wind Power, Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies, Atlantis Solar and Sun-Mar. But director Jeffrey Reede is constantly sourcing new and exciting manufacturers of consumer, commercial and educational products. 
“Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies’ educational kits and Northern Green’s portable solar chargers for cell phones and laptops are the most popular products,” said Creech. 
In an effort to build product awareness and drive traffic to their online store,  Northern Green participates in alternative energy fairs, festivals and trade shows where they are able to display their product lines.
“The booth serves many purposes.  It gives us a place where consumers can come and see the actual product, ask questions and learn how to incorporate the many transitional products into their everyday lives.  Going Green is not just smart for the environment it’s also practical in its application.”  ELT