Activities

The benefits of solar energy in Florida are numerous. As energy costs continue to rise, Florida residents are exploring the use of alternative energy sources. Solar energy is one of the most promising sources of alternative energy because it is cost effective and environmentally friendly. It can be used for camping, on-reservation tours, beach days, RV camping, boat docking, hunting, wildlife watching, bicycling and dozens of other activities.

Solar energy in Florida is growing, as the price of photovoltaic cells has continued to drop in recent years. The most cost effective source of renewable energy in Florida is the solar-to-electric conversion system. This is also known as “back-up electricity” and the system works well for campers, RV’s and boats. Although there are limitations to the size of equipment that can be run on this type of system, they are very inexpensive. Many companies offer a free solar detector and adapter to install at your home or business to start using renewable energy.

A Florida solar farm is a group of homes or businesses that convert sunlight into electricity by using a solar power generator. These farms are becoming more popular as energy costs continue to increase, but you do not have to own your own farm to take advantage of solar power. Many companies offer low-cost electricity to their customers who install solar panels on their roofs.

Lighting is an important aspect of enjoying the visual beauty of the Florida sunsets. Low-voltage outdoor lighting can be installed along walkways or around the pool to increase the usability of the space. Low voltage lighting is cost effective, while at the same time offering good energy efficiency. Florida homeowners and businesses can take advantage of solar powered outdoor lighting by purchasing an outdoor LED grow light or a plant fixture that utilizes natural daylight to illuminate the garden at night. This low-voltage lighting is effective at producing bright, even lighting, which makes it perfect for growing herbs and plants during the night.

The Florida Office of Economic and Demography provides information on the demographics of the state of Florida. The data shows that the Hispanic population is growing rapidly in the state, which makes it a great place to build a solar energy generation facility. The statistics also show the number of residents who are over the age of 65, which has an increased amount of dependency on Medicare and Medicaid. Considering the growing aging population, it is important for Florida to develop affordable, efficient, and reliable renewable energy programs that will allow older citizens to supplement the federal government’s safety net.

Florida is home to two major solar energy production facilities, the Cape Coral Power Company and the Miami-Dade Energy Authority. Both companies contribute to the state’s clean air initiative, helping to reduce ozone air quality throughout the city. These companies also contribute towards the “going green” movement, as many Floridians strive to become more environmentally friendly and sustainable. The Renewable Energy Enhancement Act was recently passed by the Florida legislature, which includes tax incentives for the installation of renewable energy infrastructure in the state. As part of the incentive program, several businesses have already begun to install new technologies that make use of energy efficiency, such as photovoltaic solar panels and wind turbines.

The University of Florida has established the School of Solar Energy, where students can earn a Masters Degree in Energy Efficiency. Located in Gainesville, FL, the school will provide up to twelve classes over the next three years that will teach students all facets of building and installing residential and commercial solar power lights. The school has received accreditation from the North American Society for Lighting Excellence and the National Solar Power Association. Students will learn about cost effectiveness, permitting, maintenance, operation, and other important aspects of the upcoming industry.

The city of Miami-Dade County is spearheading the effort to retrofit city lighting with energy-efficient lighting devices. The initiative is part of the Local Affordable Energy Initiatives (LAAE) initiative that seeks to reduce energy consumption through improvements to local government entities, leveraging funds from the citizenry, and providing incentives for citizens to become involved. Several cities, counties, and states are implementing these efforts with the hopes of reducing energy costs and improving environmental conditions. LAAE also hopes to raise the consciousness of residents to conserve energy use, and encourage new homeowners and renters to participate. The Local Affordable Energy Initiatives has received support from several national and local entities, and is expected to take effect in the coming year.

Ziplining is an adrenaline-filled outdoor recreational activity. In some parts of the world, ziplining was initially used for observational purposes without disturbing the natural environment. Zip lining has recently become a popular recreational activity in a state that is typically dominated by beach tourism. A zip line is usually set-up on a slanting slope. The start point is high, whereas the endpoint is the lower part of the slope. Ziplines differ in length, depending on the intensity of the activity. They have two types of braking systems that help control the speed. 

You do not need to buy any equipment when going ziplining since they provide you with the equipment. Some of the gear you will be given include gloves, a helmet, and a seat and chest harness. Ziplining is generally a safe sport, but if you have any physical or heart conditions, you may want to consult your physician before you go ziplining. Listed below are a few tips that can help you prepare for your first ziplining adventure.

Appropriate Attire

When going for a ziplining adventure for the first time, ensure that you wear the appropriate attire. You may also want to consider the weather conditions. For instance, if the weather is hot, do not forget to wear sunscreen and loose-fitting clothes. 

If you decide to wear shorts, pick ones that are not too short to prevent the harness from brushing your skin. Ladies should avoid wearing dresses or skirts when going zip line since these are not safe or appropriate. Lastly, ensure you wear closed shoes to keep your feet protected.

Listen to Your Guide

It is important to pay attention to your ziplining guide. Avoid being on your phone or being distracted when they are giving out instructions. You may miss out on important information. The guides are put in place to ensure that you have fun, but you are safe while at it. They also teach you how to use the braking systems to be in control while on the course. 

If you missed something while the guide was explaining, make sure you ask for clarity purposes. The guides will generally explain everything you may need to know about zip lining before getting on the course.

Safety

As mentioned earlier, ziplining is generally a safe sport to partake in. You still, however, need to ensure that you are taking all the safety measures into place. For instance, as mentioned, you need to listen to your instructor carefully, but you also need to ensure you are always strapped into a safety line. When you are safely strapped into a line, you avoid getting injured should you fall when stepping off the course, and the line will also catch you in case you fall. 

Before you ask – no, you can’t take your dog along so that you can capture the world’s most epic selfie. You’ll have to leave your fluff ball in a safe place, securely on the ground. You should also avoid trying to take a selfie in any case while suspended in the air. Although you may want to capture the moment, it is not safe.

Instead, you can ask a friend, family, or instructor to take a picture of you as you zip line. You have to use both your hands to support yourself. By taking a picture with your phone while you are zip lining, you compromise on your safety.

You may be ridden with anxiety the first time you go ziplining but do not let this stop you. Get out of your comfort zone and experience the thrill and adrenaline that comes with ziplining. However, one of the most important things you should keep in mind before your first ziplining adventure is the reputation of where you are going to zip line. Ensure you do your research to ensure it is a reputable place or ask someone who often ziplines for a recommendation. Do not forget to let loose and enjoy yourself.