Helpful Insurance Planning Tips for Parents of New Teen Drivers

Posted on October 20, 2023November 1, 2023 by admin

Shield Insurance Blog | Teen Drivers | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

When a teenager earns their license, it is considered a rite of passage. For parents, this accomplishment can be both thrilling and nerve-wracking. Along with various safety concerns, insuring your new, inexperienced Michigan driver can be daunting. Thankfully, with some knowledge and a plan, you can find the best coverage without busting your budget.

Add Teen Drivers to An Existing Policy

Adding your teenager to your current auto insurance policy is generally cheaper than purchasing a separate one. Keep in mind if they are not on your policy, they will not be able to take advantage of any multi-car or loyalty discounts you receive.

Promote Being a Good Student

When it comes to auto insurance, good grades can translate into insurance discounts. Many auto insurance providers offer “good student discounts” for students who typically maintain at least a B average.

Enroll Teen Drivers in a Defensive Driving Course

Enrolling your teen in a defensive driving course is helpful. Your child will gain valuable driving skills, and, in many cases, they can also use the successful completion of the class to earn a discount on their premiums.

Revisit Your Deductibles

Adding a driver often increases costs; teen drivers are no exception. To counteract this cost, consider adjusting your deductible. Higher deductibles may mean lower annual premiums. At Shield Insurance Agency, we can discuss your deductible options.

Establish Ground Rules for Teen Drivers

Set driving guidelines for your teen that include no texting and driving, limited nighttime driving, and passenger restrictions. These practices keep your child safer on the road, which, in turn, keeps premiums lower.

Consult With Us

The journey of insuring a new driver does not have to be a challenge, but it does require a plan. At Shield Insurance Agency, we want to help keep your teen drivers safe as they navigate these Michigan roads. Contact us today!

Passionate Horror Fan Now Earns Thousands Teaching Creepy Make-Up Looks on Social Media

Posted on October 19, 2023October 10, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Good News Network | Oct 1, 2023 | Creepy Make-Up | More Blogs by Shield Insurance Agency

Meet the horror movie obsessive who now earns thousands every month sharing her creepy make-up techniques from her home in the UK.

Natasha Jane Wood used to “sneak downstairs” and watch her favorite gory blockbusters when she was a young girl.

“It probably sounds crazy but I used to fall asleep watching ’28 Days Later,’ which is a zombie movie,” said the 28-year-old. “I just found it so soothing.”

Creepy Make-Up and Special Effects

Inspired by Hollywood icons Tim Burton and Stephen King, Natasha had studied special effects makeup at Bolton University in 2019—but the pandemic provided the perfect chance to try new techniques when she was furloughed from her job at a jewelry store.

Honing her skills from her childhood bedroom in Darwen, Lancashire, Natasha found online fame after uploading her sinister looks to TikTok. She has since amassed over six million followers on social media and made her passion a full-time career.

“It all just kicked off in 2020 when I did my ‘Disney Princesses Gone Wrong’ series on TikTok. A video I did transforming myself into Jim Carrey’s ‘The Mask’ has over 100 million views on YouTube.

“My little brother and sister thought it was a bit cringe at first, but now I have the same amount of YouTube subscribers as some of their favorite content creators.”

The Disney Princess series included Snow White, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and Belle.

“They were inspired by the Grimm Brothers, who did the original versions of the stories,” she told Southwest News Service. “With Beauty and the Beast, for example, I did one where she actually got scratched by the beast, so it turned quite gory.

“With Disney, it’s all happily ever after, but you don’t really see what would happen if it went wrong.

LOOK: One-Legged Man Turns His Amputation Into the Best Halloween Costumes Ever

When TikTok began cracking down on gore (even fake gore) she turned herself into an unfinished Mona Lisa painting.

Check the link for the full story and some great pics!

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Unveiling the hidden secrets of auto insurance: Does it really cover bodily injury and property damage?

Posted on October 18, 2023September 12, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote Today! | Email the office

Car insurance is a crucial aspect of owning a vehicle. It provides financial protection in case of accidents, damages, or injuries. However, understanding the extent of coverage can be confusing. In this blog post, we will delve into car insurance coverage details, specifically focusing on bodily injury and property damage. We will also explore the benefits of car insurance and provide information on how to obtain a free quote through Shield Insurance Agency.

Car Insurance Coverage:

Car insurance coverage typically consists of several components, including bodily injury coverage and property damage coverage. Bodily injury coverage protects you if you cause an accident that results in injuries to others. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, and legal fees if you are sued. Property damage coverage, on the other hand, covers the cost of repairing or replacing someone else’s property that you damaged in an accident.

Auto Insurance Coverage:

Auto insurance coverage varies depending on the policy you choose. It is essential to review your policy documents carefully to understand the specific coverage you have. Most states require a minimum level of coverage, but it is often recommended to opt for higher coverage limits to ensure adequate protection.

Coverage for Bodily Injury and Property Damage:

Car insurance policies typically include both bodily injury and property damage coverage. The coverage limits determine the maximum amount your insurance company will pay for each category. For example, if your policy has a bodily injury coverage limit of $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident, the insurance company will cover up to $100,000 for each injured person and up to $300,000 for all injured parties in a single accident.

Auto Insurance Benefits:

Having car insurance offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it provides financial protection in case of accidents, reducing the burden of paying for medical bills, property repairs, or legal fees out of pocket. Secondly, car insurance can provide peace of mind, knowing that you are protected against unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, some policies offer additional benefits such as roadside assistance, rental car coverage, and reimbursement for towing expenses.

Auto Insurance Coverage Details:

When reviewing your car insurance policy, it is crucial to understand the details of your coverage. Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions, including any exclusions or limitations. For example, some policies may not cover damages caused by natural disasters or intentional acts. It is also essential to know the process for filing a claim and the timeframe within which you must report an accident.

Shield Insurance Agency:

Shield Insurance Agency is a reputable insurance provider that represents over 40 insurance companies. They offer a wide range of car insurance options to suit individual needs. Whether you are a new driver or have an extensive driving history, Shield Insurance Agency can help you find the right coverage at competitive rates.

Contact Shield Insurance Agency:

To obtain a free quote for car insurance, you can contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600. Their experienced agents will guide you through the quoting process, ensuring you receive a personalized quote tailored to your requirements. Alternatively, you can start the quoting process by visiting the following LINK, and an agent will be in touch with you soon.

Real World Test Shows All-Electric Big Rigs Can Go Farther and Charge Faster

Posted on October 17, 2023October 2, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Good News | By Andy Corbley | Sep 28, 2023 | Big Rigs | Business Insurance

An industry research non-profit has found that battery-electric big rigs have doubled their range and charging speed numbers in just 2 years of operation.

In conducting a real-world test on 21 freight trucks for three weeks, the North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE) found this lighting-fast innovation occurring across the market for battery-electric big rigs

This includes models from Ford, Daimler, Tesla, Volvo, and General Motors.

All-Electric Big Rigs

“This gives us real data, real-world experience to look into the future a bit — and I think the future of battery electric commercial trucks is bright,” said Mike Roeth, NACFE’s executive director.

While the NACFE’s 2023 report didn’t contain weight details for the trucks involved, which Roeth admits was frustrating since weight affects range, he confirmed that each of the 21 vehicles was hauling average freight for the shipping company who owned it, and included trailers full of produce or bottled water, and international freight on shipping containers.

All-Electric Big Rigs Prove in the Zone

The exciting part of the data is the range and charging times were bang in the zone of what Roeth told Canary Media is known as the “sweet spot in… medium regional haul return-to-base,” and represents the largest part of trucking routes within states and encompasses around 300 miles of movement.

The Daimler eCascadia electric tractor-trailer, for example, averaged 322 miles per day which consisted of 26 deliveries.

For those who live inside built-up or urban areas, the idea of silent, emission-free freight trucks passing through town is a tantalizing prospect. Depending on the size, freight trucks, and big rigs can have between 10 to 18 gears, meaning their 0-35 time is extremely smog-filled, slow, and noisy.

However, there’s another aspect to stop-and-go city traffic that makes electric big rigs ideal—regenerative braking systems. This clever bit of tech can recharge the battery pack by utilizing the braking force of the huge heavy vehicle, and NACFE found that the Daimler eCascadia was able to recover a quarter of its charge simply in the course of braking during a 13-hour haul day.

There are big hurdles to overcome before electric trucking is adopted widely. At the moment, without state and federal government support, no trucking company could afford the upfront price tag of electric trucks over diesel ones, even if they represent savings over time due to reduced maintenance costs. For this reason, outside of EV-friendly states, e-trucking would be very difficult.

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Discover the Hidden Benefits of Non-Collision Coverage

Posted on October 13, 2023April 24, 2024 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Non-Collision Coverage | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

When it comes to auto insurance, there are many different types of coverage options available. One important type of coverage that often gets overlooked is non-collision coverage. In this blog post, we will explore what non-collision coverage is, why it is important, and how it can provide valuable protection for your vehicle.

Non-collision coverage, also known as comprehensive coverage

Non-collision coverage, also known as comprehensive coverage, is an insurance policy that covers damage to your vehicle that is not caused by a collision with another vehicle. This type of coverage is designed to protect your vehicle from a wide range of risks, such as theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, and falling objects. It provides coverage for damage that occurs outside of a collision, giving you peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is protected in various situations.

So why is non-collision coverage important? Well, accidents happen, and not all of them involve another vehicle. Your vehicle can be damaged or destroyed by factors beyond your control, such as a tree falling on it during a storm or a fire breaking out in your garage. Without non-collision coverage, you would be responsible for paying for the repairs or replacement of your vehicle out of pocket. This can be a significant financial burden, especially if your vehicle is expensive or if you are still making payments on it.

With non-collision coverage, you can have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is protected against a wide range of risks. Whether it’s a hailstorm damaging your car or a thief breaking into it, non-collision coverage can help cover the costs of repairs or replacement. This type of coverage can also provide coverage for rental cars or reimbursement for transportation expenses if your vehicle is temporarily out of commission due to a covered event.

When it comes to auto insurance, it’s important to understand the different types of coverage options available to you. Non-collision coverage is just one piece of the puzzle, but it can be a valuable one. By adding non-collision coverage to your auto insurance policy, you can ensure that your vehicle is protected from a wide range of risks, giving you peace of mind on the road.

If you’re interested in adding non-collision coverage to your auto insurance policy, Shield Insurance Agency can help. As an independent insurance agency, Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies, giving you access to a wide range of coverage options. Their experienced agents can help you find the right coverage for your needs and budget, ensuring that you have the protection you need to keep your vehicle safe.

To get started, simply contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today. Their friendly agents will be happy to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the quoting process. You can also start the quoting process by visiting this LINK, and an agent will be in touch soon to discuss your options.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect your vehicle with non-collision coverage and give yourself the peace of mind you deserve. Contact Shield Insurance Agency today and take the first step towards comprehensive vehicle protection.

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Unveiling the Differences: No-Fault vs. Personal Injury Protection Explained

No-Fault vs. Personal Injury Protection Demystified: Discover the Real Deal

Posted on October 11, 2023September 6, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | No-Fault | Auto Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

When it comes to auto insurance, understanding the different types of coverage can be overwhelming. Two commonly confused terms are “no-fault insurance” and “personal injury protection (PIP).” While they may seem similar, there are distinct differences between the two. In this blog post, we will unravel the jargon and debunk some misconceptions surrounding these coverages. Read on to learn more about the benefits, advantages, and FAQs related to no-fault and personal injury protection.

No-Fault vs. Personal Injury Protection Explained:

No-fault insurance and personal injury protection are often used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same. No fault insurance refers to a system where each driver’s insurance company pays for their own medical expenses and damages, regardless of who caused the accident. On the other hand, personal injury protection (PIP) is a specific type of coverage that provides additional benefits beyond medical expenses, such as lost wages and rehabilitation costs.

No-Fault Insurance Misconceptions:

One common misconception about no-fault insurance is that it means no one is at fault for the accident. However, this is not the case. No fault insurance simply means that each driver’s insurance company covers their own expenses, regardless of fault. Another misconception is that no-fault insurance eliminates the need to file a lawsuit. While it is true that no-fault insurance reduces the need for litigation, there are still situations where legal action may be necessary, such as in cases of severe injuries or disputed liability.

Personal Injury Protection Myths:

There are also several myths surrounding personal injury protection. One myth is that PIP coverage is only necessary for high-risk drivers. In reality, PIP coverage can benefit anyone involved in an accident, regardless of their driving history. Another myth is that PIP coverage duplicates health insurance. While there may be some overlap in coverage, PIP can provide additional benefits that health insurance may not cover, such as lost wages and household services.

Personal Injury Coverage:

The main difference between no-fault insurance and PIP coverage lies in the scope of benefits. No-fault insurance typically covers only medical expenses, while PIP coverage extends to other costs, such as lost wages, funeral expenses, and rehabilitation services. PIP coverage also varies by state, with some states requiring a minimum coverage amount, while others offer optional higher limits.

No-Fault Insurance Benefits:

No-fault insurance offers several benefits to policyholders. Firstly, it provides prompt payment for medical expenses, reducing the need to wait for a liability determination. Secondly, it eliminates the need to prove fault, simplifying the claims process. Lastly, no-fault insurance can help reduce the strain on the court system by resolving minor accident claims more efficiently.

Personal Injury Protection Advantages:

PIP coverage offers additional advantages beyond medical expenses. It provides coverage for lost wages, allowing injured individuals to maintain their financial stability while recovering. PIP coverage also includes benefits for essential services, such as childcare and housekeeping, which may be necessary during the recovery period. Additionally, PIP coverage can help cover funeral expenses in the unfortunate event of a fatal accident.

Insurance Coverage FAQs:

1. Is no-fault insurance mandatory in all states?

No, not all states require no-fault insurance. Some states have traditional fault-based systems, where the at-fault driver’s insurance pays for the damages.

2. Can I have both no-fault insurance and PIP coverage?

Yes, in states where both are available, you can have both no-fault insurance and PIP coverage. However, it is important to review your policy to understand the specific benefits and limits of each coverage.

3. Does PIP coverage apply to passengers in my vehicle?

Yes, PIP coverage typically extends to passengers in your vehicle, regardless of who is at fault for the accident.

Unraveling Insurance Jargon:

Understanding insurance jargon can be challenging, but Shield Insurance Agency is here to help. As an agency representing over 40 insurance companies, we have the expertise to guide you through the complexities of auto insurance. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK, and an agent will be in touch soon.

No-fault insurance and personal injury protection may sound similar, but they have distinct differences in coverage. No-fault insurance refers to a system where each driver’s insurance company covers their own expenses, while PIP coverage provides additional benefits beyond medical expenses. Understanding these coverages, debunking misconceptions, and unraveling insurance jargon is crucial for making informed decisions about your auto insurance. Remember, Shield Insurance Agency is here to assist you in finding the right coverage for your needs.

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What if everything turns out OK? The power of imagining a better future

Posted on October 10, 2023September 18, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Positive News | Gavin Haines | August 29, 2023 | power of imagining | Shield Insurance Blog

The news is full of the catastrophic scenarios that could face humanity, but where are the heartening visions of the future we’re all longing for? Transition Town Network founder Rob Hopkins is on a mission to help us dream it into reality with the power of imagining.

Rob Hopkins has seen the future – and it’s glorious. You should see it too, he says. Smell it. Hear it. There are children playing in the street again. Deafening dawn choruses. Cycle lanes chocka with rush-hour traffic. Indie shops galore. Restaurants spilling onto streets. No homelessness. Oodles of civic pride. Crystal-clean rivers were rewilded by beavers. Community orchards. Pollen on the breeze. No fumes, no smog, just fresh air.

The year? 2030. Just seven years away. How did he get there? Well, the writer and activist has – whisper it – a time machine. It’s hidden in a secret laboratory under Totnes Castle in Devon, near to where he lives, along with a “disbelief suspender” and a “cynicism override”. At least that’s the yarn he spins when he’s invited to give talks on what he believes is a curiously underrated tool for tackling the climate and biodiversity crises: our imaginations.

The part of the brain associated with imagination is the hippocampus, which is also where our memories are stored. This may explain why fantasizing about the future, like recollecting past events, can be so evocative. Tapping into that is a powerful tool for driving positive change, reckons Hopkins. It gives people a hopeful vision to work towards, a longing, that breeds creativity and action, although he’s preaching to the converted – this ethos underpins our journalism.

Curious things happen when Hopkins gives his talks. People come up to him afterward and ask him, with no hint of sarcasm or cynicism, about the future, as though inquiring about a foreign city he’s just returned from. After a talk he gave to people in the sports sector recently, someone asked him if there would be many repair cafes in 2030.

“I said, ‘Well, I can answer that in a minute, but I just want to say that I love how you’ve suspended your disbelief to the point where you’re asking me that’,” he tells me, grinning.

That anecdote, says Hopkins, underscores his point, which is that we need to fire up our imaginations with creative storytelling.

Read the full story at Positive News about the power of imagining...

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Find Out if Your Auto Insurance Covers Hit-and-Run Accidents!

Posted on October 6, 2023April 24, 2024 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Auto Insurance | Contact Our Office | Start A Quote Today!

Auto insurance is a crucial aspect of owning a vehicle, providing financial protection in the event of an accident. However, when it comes to hit-and-run accidents, many drivers are left wondering if their insurance policy covers such incidents. In this blog post, we will explore the different types of coverage offered by auto insurance policies and discuss whether they provide protection in hit-and-run situations. Understanding your insurance coverage is essential for ensuring you are adequately protected on the road.

Understanding Auto Insurance Coverage

Auto insurance policies typically offer various types of coverage, each serving a specific purpose. The most common types of coverage include liability coverage, comprehensive coverage, collision coverage, and uninsured motorist coverage.

1. Liability Coverage: This coverage protects you if you are at fault in an accident and covers the other party’s medical expenses and property damage.

2. Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle against non-collision incidents, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.

3. Collision Coverage: Collision coverage covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it is damaged in a collision with another vehicle or object.

4. Uninsured Motorist Coverage: This coverage protects you if you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver.

Does Auto Insurance Cover Hit-and-Run Accidents?

When it comes to hit-and-run accidents, the coverage provided by your auto insurance policy depends on the specific terms and conditions outlined in your policy. In most cases, hit-and-run accidents are covered under comprehensive coverage or uninsured motorist coverage.

1. Comprehensive Coverage: If you have comprehensive coverage, it may cover the damages caused by a hit-and-run accident. This coverage typically includes incidents where your vehicle is damaged while parked or when the other driver flees the scene without providing their information.

2. Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Uninsured motorist coverage can also provide protection in hit-and-run accidents. If the other driver involved in the hit-and-run incident is unidentified or does not have insurance, this coverage can help cover your medical expenses and vehicle repairs.

It is important to note that the specific terms and conditions of your insurance policy may vary, so it is crucial to review your policy or contact your insurance company to understand the extent of your coverage.

The Claim Process for Hit-and-Run Accidents

If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, it is essential to follow the proper claim process to ensure you receive the coverage you are entitled to. Here are the general steps to take:

1. Gather Information: Collect as much information as possible about the incident, including the time, location, and any witness statements. If possible, take photos of the scene and any damages to your vehicle.

2. File a Police Report: Contact the local authorities and file a police report. Provide them with all the information you have gathered.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company about the hit-and-run incident as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claim process and provide you with the necessary forms to fill out.

4. Provide Documentation: Fill out the claim forms accurately and provide any supporting documentation, such as the police report, photos, and witness statements.

5. Follow-Up: Stay in touch with your insurance company throughout the claim process. They may require additional information or documentation to process your claim.

In conclusion, whether your auto insurance covers a hit-and-run accident depends on the specific terms and conditions of your policy. Comprehensive coverage and uninsured motorist coverage are the most likely types of coverage to provide protection in hit-and-run incidents. To ensure you have the right coverage for your needs, review your insurance policy or contact your insurance company. Remember, accidents can happen at any time, so it is crucial to have adequate coverage to protect yourself and your vehicle. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK, and an agent will be in touch soon.

The Surprising Way Household Rating Impacts Your Car Insurance Costs

Posted on October 4, 2023April 24, 2024 by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Household Rating | Start A Quote Today!

When it comes to car insurance, there are many factors that can impact your premiums. From your driving record to the type of car you drive, insurance companies take a variety of factors into consideration when determining your rates. However, one factor that you may not be aware of is your household rating.

What is Household Rating?

Household rating is a term used by insurance companies to determine the risk associated with insuring a particular household. It takes into account the number of drivers in the household, their ages, and their driving records. Insurance companies use this information to assess the likelihood of accidents or claims occurring within the household.

How Does Household Rating Impact Your Car Insurance Costs?

The impact of household rating on your car insurance premiums can be significant. Insurance companies consider households with multiple drivers, especially young or inexperienced drivers, to be at a higher risk of accidents. As a result, they may charge higher premiums to cover this increased risk.

For example, if you have a teenage driver in your household, your car insurance rates are likely to be higher than if you were the only driver. This is because statistics show that teenage drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents. Insurance companies take this into account when determining your rates.

Similarly, if you have multiple drivers with poor driving records in your household, your car insurance premiums may also be higher. Insurance companies view drivers with a history of accidents or traffic violations as a higher risk and therefore charge higher premiums to cover this risk.

On the other hand, if you have a clean driving record and no other drivers in your household, you may be eligible for lower car insurance rates. Insurance companies consider individuals with a good driving record to be less likely to be involved in accidents and therefore charge lower premiums.

How Can You Minimize the Impact of Household Rating on Your Car Insurance Pricing?

While you may not be able to change the number of drivers in your household or their ages, there are steps you can take to minimize the impact of household rating on your car insurance costs.

1. Encourage safe driving: By promoting safe driving habits within your household, you can reduce the likelihood of accidents or claims. This can help lower your car insurance premiums over time.

2. Take advantage of discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts for safe driving, completing driver’s education courses, or having multiple policies with the same company. Be sure to ask your insurance agent about any available discounts that you may qualify for.

3. Shop around for the best rates: Not all insurance companies weigh household rating the same way. Some may offer more competitive rates for households with multiple drivers or young drivers. By shopping around and comparing quotes from different insurance companies, you can find the best rates for your specific household rating.

4. Consider a different insurance company: If you find that your current insurance company is charging high premiums based on your household rating, it may be worth considering switching to a different company. Shield Insurance Agency, for example, represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the best rates for your specific household rating. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon.

In conclusion, household rating is an important factor that can impact your car insurance costs. Insurance companies consider the number of drivers in your household, their ages, and their driving records when determining your rates. By promoting safe driving, taking advantage of discounts, shopping around for the best rates, and considering a different insurance company, you can minimize the impact of household rating on your car insurance pricing. Remember, Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies and can help you find the best rates for your specific household rating.

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Oregon Is Turning Sewage Into an Endless Supply of Green Energy

Green Energy: Oregon Is Turning Sewage Into an Endless Supply

Posted on October 3, 2023September 18, 2023 by Shield Insurance Agency

Good Good Good | SEP 7, 2023 | Green Energy | Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Converting sewage into heat and electricity offers a compelling proposition: more waste equals more green energy and clean power.

In the summer of 2020, as wildfires burned across more than a million acres in Oregon, workers at Clackamas County’s water treatment facility started calling each other.

From their homes, they could see that the towers of flames were closing in on the wastewater treatment plant. Power was failing all over the state.

If the facility lost power, it could flood the Willamette River with untreated waste, causing untold environmental damage.

In the end, the facility remained powered up and the Willamette was spared. But with wildfires and extreme weather increasingly common, the incident underscored how generating and storing renewable power on-site could build resiliency into the system.

“It’s extremely energy-consumptive to treat wastewater,” says Dave Moldal, program manager at Energy Trust of Oregon.

As the region grows in population, the more energy the wastewater plant requires. But what if increasing volumes of wastewater could provide the treatment plant with more energy rather than consume it? That’s exactly what’s been happening at Clackamas County’s Tri-City Water Resource Recovery Facility for the past seven months.

Since August 2021, the plant has been pumping out renewable power produced from methane, a natural byproduct of human waste decomposing in an oxygen-free environment.

Now, this loop of green energy represents a powerful example of how waste can become something we benefit from rather than expend resources disposing of.

By turning human waste into power, wastewater treatment facilities have the potential to become energy generators instead of consumers, while creating clean water that’s returned to the local ecosystem.

When wastewater arrives at Clackamas Water Environment Services’ treatment plant, it contains pretty much what you’d expect — human waste, paper, food, soap, sand — plus a random assortment of items that people accidentally flush or drop into drains, like a miniature Stormtrooper helmet, a Pee-wee Herman doll, and a rubber elephant, all of which are proudly on display at the facility.

However, the individuals who work here don’t consider this to be a mere waste treatment facility. Instead, they see it as a place where clean water and fertilizer for non-food crops is produced. And now, they’ve added a third item to the list of beneficial resources they churn out: green energy.

Visit the full story at Good Good Good

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