What's the best way to make my own electricity and power?

Question

In terms of cost and simplicity?
Like making a simple wind turbine or solar powered device (notice I didn't say solar panel). Something like that.

So how would I make a wind turbine from scratch?

Answer 1

That would be determined by location, available technology and money. If you live near running water like a stream, then use a water wheel. If you live in windy areas then use a wind mill. Hook something up to an exercise machine. Be creative. Again, location and resources will determine what is best for you. Living in an apartment will make things much different than living on a farm.

Answer 2

A wind turbine that can generate a 2-3Kws, on a 50 foot tower, costs about $3-5,000 USD. It generates a 50db noise, so it's best when you have a rural sort of home.

You could potentially rig a solar collector that uses water through collection box to heat hot water or even help heat a home.

There are US tax credits still for 2007 for adding solar or wind power to your home so at $5 a watt for solar sells, you could probably get a 2 dollar or so a day of solar for $6500, before a tax credit, or $4500 after, with a 20+ year life, .