Tony Phillips believes going green and saving green don't have to be mutually exclusive.  That's why Phillips, who has owned A.C. Phillips Plumbing and Heating Inc. since 1991, recently opened The Alternative Energy Source in Milltown.

"It's just been a love of min," Phillips said of environmentally friendly energy concepts, adding he enjoys "trying to do something good, something right, something to help people save some money in the long run."

Environmentally friendly energy equipment, such as solar panels or geothermal units, may cost a bit more upfront, but they pay for themselves over time, as the monthly operating costs are loser, Phillips said.  For example, radiant floor heat can provide a homeowner up to 40 percent savings in distribution costs, he said.

"It's super effective, super efficient, extremely comfortable," said Phillip, who has had it in his house since 1985.

In the plumbing business since the 1970s, Phillips said he sees a lot of similarities regarding the energy situation between when he started and now.

"I believe we're reliving the '70s," he said, adding he believes Congress will provide incentives to encourage the use of alternative energy products.

Another plus, Phillips said, is using alternative energy reduces the country's dependence on foreign oil, keeping dollars in the United States. 

"In my mind, that has to be considered, that you're helping out the United States," he said.

Phillips, who has a degree in science education from Indiana University, has been installing such systems since the 1970s.  Besides Phillips, the new store utilizes the expertise of others, including Eric Anderson, who specializes in passive solar equipment, and John Doyle, and electrical engineer and instructor at Indiana University Southeast who helps design systems.

The store, located in downtown Milltown, at 129 W. Main Street (across from the Blue River Cafe), also features wood stoves, gas logs that Phillips said are ideal for backup heat when conventional power fails, and solar water systems. In addition, the store intends to have wind systems available, he said.

"We can size and design solar electric systems," Phillips added.

Phillips said he hopes to drill a well to be able to heat and cool the building with a geothermal unit so customers can see firsthand the effectiveness of such a unit.

In addition to alternative energy products, the store also sells conventional equipment, Phillips said.

The Alternative Energy Source is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  For more information, call 633-4252 or visit www.thealternativeenergysource.com.

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