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Okay. We may or may not be in a depression, but the fact of the matter is money is tight (and getting tighter). That’s why it’s a perfect time to start a business that can help other people save money, cut down on energy costs and otherwise loosen the purse strings. Here are a few ideas to consider:

Alternative Power: Help homeowners get off the grid (at least somewhat) by selling and installing small wind turbines. Small turbines retail for around $3,000 to $5,000 with installation costs averaging $1,500 to $2,000. According to the American Wind Energy Association, these smaller units are suitable for about 15 million homes and 1 million businesses in America with an acre or more of property.

Shuttle Service: More and more people are looking to save on fuel costs, which is why shuttle services are a timely business opportunity. Consider partnering with local businesses, as part of a larger publicized public relations campaign on going green. Although shuttle services are usually extremely profitable, the greatest barrier to entry is obtaining an operator’s license, which is required in most states.

How-to Book: If you’ve always been thrifty with money and know how to save a buck or two, consider writing down your tips in the form of a how-to book. To engage your reader, opt on making it entertaining, yet educational. And certainly look into the self-publishing route.

Basic Home Energy Audits: Help consumers learn how to save money and help the environment by performing first-line home energy audits. If you think this might be the business for you, it is wise to look into becoming a certified Home Energy Rater through the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) at http://www.resnet.us/default.htm.

Tags: business idea, energy audit, green business, how-to, shuttle service, wind turbine