Thứ Năm, 31 tháng 1, 2013

Solar Energy Rebates In Australia

There are a number of solar energy rebates in Australia and you can literally save thousands of dollars when you know the way to integrate these into your life. There are rebates for many different renewable energy options such as on grid connected and off grid solar panels, solar hot water or solar pumping systems. If you qualify for one of the Australian Government's renewable energy rebates, subsidies or grants then you could save a lot of money on your energy expenditure.
Home solar power rebates
The Solar Credits rebate can save you thousands on a system if you meet the requirements. You can also make money from a rooftop solar array. The major rebate currently available is the national Solar Credits Program. The Solar Credits multiplier offers thousands of dollars in savings depending on the size and location of installation, and applies to new installations of small-scale renewable energy generators eligible under the scheme. Solar credits will apply to the first 1.5 kilowatts (kW) of capacity installed. Renewable Energy Certificates accompany solar power equipment purchases and can be traded for cash. However please note that the multiplier credits will only apply to the first small-scale generation system installed at an address.
Off grid solar power rebates
This is for Australians living in a remote location. If you switch to renewable energy you can get the Solar Credits multiplier for the first 20kW of a solar panels system and potentially save thousands on your energy bill. On Thursday, June 24 2010, legislation was passed for Australia's enhanced Renewable Energy Target. As part of this legislation, there were greatly increased financial incentives available for people installing off grid solar power systems. The legislation states that "households and businesses installing systems on buildings more than a kilometer from the main grid or who have evidence that it would cost in excess of $30,000 to connect to mains power will be eligible to receive the Solar Credits multiplier for the first 20kW of their system installed".
Solar incentives for business
This scheme is designed for environmentally conscious Australian business owners. Current business incentives include huge tax breaks, RECs, feed in tariffs and major rebates under the solar credits program. The solar credits program provides substantial savings for businesses on grid connect solar power systems. Businesses can claim a tax deduction on a commercial solar power system installed on their business premises. Businesses can also save money by installing a solar hot water system or heat pump. This will help to not only slash the electricity bills but also the business greenhouse gas emissions.
Solar schools grants
The Solar schools grant called The National Solar School Program (NSSP) offers most single campus schools in Australia $50,000 grants and up to $100,000 for dual campuses. The Australian Government is also providing generous grants of up to $50,000 (excluding GST) for each school in Australia to install grid connected solar power, which is a great way to reduce the carbon footprint and save money. In the case of dual campuses, the grant may go up to $100,000 (excluding GST) and this grant is available until June 2015, under the National Solar School Program (NSSP). There is also additional funding available in some states under state programs, so it makes sense to look around for rebates.
Government solar hot water rebate
The Federal Government announced major solar hot water rebate changes on February 19, 2010 and there are now rebates of up to $1000 available to install solar hot water systems. There are also rebates of up to $600 for heat pumps installed to replace electric storage hot water systems in existing privately owned homes.
In Australia the government offers rebates for home owners that install solar energy for their homes. This includes the products I had installed from this solar panels Melbourne service.

Do it Yourself Solar Panels

Solar energy has appealed to more and more people nowadays. The need to save money is higher now than before. More likely, the demand for solar power technology is greater than ever. With the continuous search to conserve money, advanced technologies and reasonable price solutions, the popularity of solar energy also grows.
Following solar power technology guidelines will help mainly in saving a lot from expenses especially in electric bills. That's a lot of solar energy savings to sum up. Efficient energy savings give a lot of advantages in terms of financial budget and ecological preservation.
Here are some guidelines on how to conserve energy.
• Choose the right color for your house or room. Bright colored paints for your walls reflect lights. This will make the room look lively and brighter. Dark colors absorb brightness from lights and even sunlight reflection. This will save a lot of energy because of lesser need to buy light bulbs.
• A consumer must be bright in choosing and buying light bulbs. The best types to buy are either LED light bulbs or fluorescent bulbs. Incandescent bulbs consume a lot of energy.
• Turn off lights when you're not around. Leaving light bulbs on will surely consume electricity, especially when left for a long time. After using electrical gadgets, make sure to unplug these appliances. Leaving them in their sockets still generates energy thus, increasing electric bills.
• Turn on dishwashers only when it's full. The amount of energy consumed is the same as turning it on when half full.
Following these guidelines is of great use to consumers with tight financial budgets. As such, using solar panels also helps in keeping those utility bills low. Solar powered energy may be used in cooking, lighting, communicating, cooling, heating and others.
Energy efficiency aids together with solar energy savings to people on all walks of life - be it a busy businessman, a utility worker or a plain housewife. Having solar panels will give you the alternative for energy sources aside from local power companies. If you know how to maximize the use of those solar cells up there in your roofs, life will be easier. A lot may be taken from solar energy savings. Utilizing sun's energy will even earn you a little something. All you've got to do is find out what they are and make use of them.
There are two basic ways to harness solar energy. It is either converting it to thermal energy or by converting it into electricity. These can be used for a variety of applications. With solar power technology you'll not only save on electricity, you'll even save hundreds of money!
Steven Kunt has proven that harnessing solar power is an efficient way to save electricity. To learn more about energy saving ideas and energy saving tips, click on this link http://www.solarenergysavings.net.

How to Build Solar Panels: Types of Solar Panels

Solar panels are used to produce renewable energy from the sun, and are a clean and environmentally sound means of collecting energy. Solar energy is becoming a more popular source of energy as people start to worry about energy costs and the environment. Homeowners can reduce their investment by learning how to make solar panels themselves.
Solar panels produce energy by emitting photons. Solar cells are placed in solar panels in a grid pattern to produce energy. Negative and positive charges are produced by millions of atoms. Silicon and different atoms are used to produce the charged stimuli. There are three types of silicon: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and amorphous silicon which are all used in panels. Silicon does not produce energy until it comes in contact with the photon particles produced by the sun. When this happens it produces energy. The voltage and current in the solar cell determines the capacity or amount of power the cell produces.
The flat plate collector and the concentrating collector are the two types of solar panels. The flat plate collectors are flat, and are primarily used in residential environments. These collectors are typically seen on top of residential rooftops. They have a transparent glass cover that protects the solar cells from damage and aids in reflection of sunlight onto the cells. The primary use of flat plate collectors are to heat water, space heating, and lighting in residential homes. Flat plate collectors are what can be made for a fraction of the cost at home, and we will teach you how to make solar panels. Concentrating collectors are capable of producing larger quantities of electricity as compared to flat plate collectors. The energy produced by these panels are used in both commercial and industrial applications such as air conditioning, central power generation, and heating. Concentrating collector panels have curved mirrors with a front or back covering of silver or aluminum or some type of reflective material. Concentrating collectors can generate power more efficiently and economically than flat plate collectors. The downside is that they are more expensive, and usually require more maintenance.
The biggest problem with solar panels is how little electricity they produce compared to the size of the actual panel. A single solar cell provides enough energy to power a calculator, but if you want to power a house you'll need several hundred or thousand cells, depending on your needs. New technology being developed is helping to improve the efficiency of solar energy systems.
The future of solar panels and solar energy are very bright. Great improvements are needed before it become the leader of supplying energy. Solar panels are used to provide only a small portion of energy worldwide. As technology grows the use of solar power is destined to compete and grow to hopefully outweigh tradition power sources to where we will have a cleaner environment and protect our planet. Once people discover that you don't have to buy retail panels, it'll motivate them to make solar panels at home.
Michael Nelson is a alternative energy enthusiast who wants to help people learn about solar energy and the benefits that it provides. Learn how to make solar panels at home to cut down costs and begin saving money on your home or business energy bills today.
http://www.ehowtomakesolarpanels.com/
http://ehowtomakesolarpanels.com/types-of-solar-panels/

Solar Panels Provide a Green Energy Solution Using High Tech Computer Manufacturing Processes

Solar cell technology has been in existence for over 60 years. Solar modules, commonly referred to as photovoltaic panels, have been used to generate electricity from light ever since the silicon based semiconductor was invented. No longer a laboratory curiosity, solar cells are an industry unto themselves and are as common in energy generation as conventional power generation methods such as steam turbine driven generators and nuclear power plants. There are many solar energy collection methods in use and available today. We will investigate the more common electricity producing solar energy devices: photovoltaic cells and PV modules.
How does a PV module generate electricity from light?
Solar Cell
Solar cells are made of materials that are electrically activated when light strikes their surfaces. This unit, a solar cell, operates without moving parts and never wears out! Add many cells together and you have a solar array or a photovoltaic module. The more cells, the higher the power that is possible to generate from the modules.
Cell Layers
The top layer of the solar cell or wafer contains a silicon layer which has free electrons which are negatively charged particles. A boron enhanced bottom layer contains spaces or holes, that let electrons move into the open spaces. The manufacturing process creates this electron imbalance between the two layers within this semiconductor material. This imbalances is responsible for the operation of the solar cell which creates the electrical current and voltage.
The Sun Strikes the Solar Cell
Photons from the sun hit the outside of the photovoltaic cell. This activity excites the free electrons in both silicon layers. Some electrons in the bottom layer travel to the silicon layer at the top of the cell. Electron flow moves through metal contacts located on the solar cell's front and back which creates electricity. Electrons flow in a closed loop or electrical circuit. Combining multiple solar cells has an additive effect on voltage and current depending on how they are "strung" together. Think of each cell as a battery. Stringing the cells in series (negative to positive) will add voltage and keep amperage the same as for one cell. Stringing the cells in parallel will keep voltage the same as for one cell but add the amperage of the cells.
Powering With Solar
Solar panels generate electrical current which is transmitted to an inverter. The inverter changes direct current into alternating current which matches the electricity that your power company provides. Appliances and power equipment operate with AC current. In the United States, power is generated at 60 hertz whereas in Europe, 50 hertz is the norm.
The solar electrical power feeds into the wiring of a house, business or power plant and into the electrical utility's power grid. An independently operated power system also can act as its own utility. This "off-grid" system requires batteries to store power when the solar panels produce more power than the load needs and is discharged when the solar modules cannot capture enough energy from the sun to offset the electrical loads from the home or business.
Converting Silicon Wafers Into Photovoltaic Cells
The computer chip industry has made the low cost production of the solar cell possible. The strides in yield, processing and quality have made the photovoltaic cell manufacturing process current state-of-the-art and scalable. While the process is matures for silicon wafer production, the techniques are time consuming and important in achieving the desired performance outcomes. The silicon wafer starts out as an ingot of silicone material and then is sawn into the characteristically round wafers that you see on a solar module.
EtchingA Wafer
The part of the solar cell process requiring a clean room incorporates chemical and heat treatments that convert the greyish silicon wafers into live, blue colored cells. A chemical etch removes a tiny layer of silicon. Underneath this layer, a crystal structure reveals a pyramid shaped surface that absorbs more light.
Diffusing
Silicon wafers are placed into ovens where phosphorus is diffused into the wafer surface. This step deposits a molecular sized deposit as the wafer surface is exposed to phosphorus gas at a high heat. This step gives the surface a negative potential electrical charge. This layer and the boron-doped layer beneath the surface create a positive-negative, or P/N, junction which is the basis of a PV cell. This is also how a semiconductor chip is made.
Coloring And Printing
The cells are placed into vacuum chambers where silicon nitride is deposited onto the side of the wafer that will be exposed to the sunlight. The coating with silicon nitride is designed to reduce light reflection. This process gives the cell its dark blue color. The cell is ready to produce electricity but still need a means to collect and forward the power to the load. Metal stripes are printed on both sides of the cell so that electrical charge collection and landing areas for wires can be added to the wafer. When this step is complete, the cell is ready to produce power.
Attaching Cells Into Solar Panels
Cells are arranged to create the voltage and amperage profile of the completed solar panel. If you look at the various brands of solar panels on the market, you will notice that the cell arrangement dictates both of these attributes of home solar panels and commercial type solar panels. Consequently, the physical frame size of the PV module is set by the solar cell arrangement.
Soldering
Cells are soldered together into series strings which involves electrical bonding of the wafers together to form one module. Several strings are connected to form a rectangular matrix of cells. Each cell matrix is laminated onto glass using a robust adhesive system that ensures the completed panel will survive normal environmental loads.
Framing
The outer frame of the solar module provides protection against weather and impact loads and also includes the electrical connection which could be a junction box or a standard electrical cable connector. These are commonly used in other electrical devices.
Location, Location, Location
Siting the solar module array requires the chance to collect as much sunlight as possible during the seasonal variation in sun intensity.
Rooftop systems provide a ready platform since the surface is often tilted toward the sun and the surface is unusable for most any other device.
Ground-mounted systems are good options where roofs are unavailable or too small in area. Modules are mounted on racks which are ground anchored and accessible for service or adding additional solar modules.
Canopy systems work well in shed roof applications such as parking areas.
Utility-scale systems are normally large scale power creating units that are sized for utility grade use and not usually limited in land area.
Tracking systems optimize output power by moving the solar modules according to the sun's path.
Summary
Solar modules are a union of solar cells and the technology that makes computer chips lower cost than just a decade ago. The inherent reliability of the solar modules used for home solar panels is due to the lack of moving parts and the high reliability parts and processes that make the solar module reality. There are virtually no limits to the types of solar electric systems that can be designed and very few limitations on location as long as there is abundant sunlight.
Robert Thibodeau is an author who has seen and specified alternative energy products for over 25 years and operates a collection of web based stores that offer energy savings products as diverse as solar energy electricity generating systems, home solar panels, solar power forums and many useful energy measuring devices. Through the GreenCluster family of e-commerce and learning sites, one can pick and choose products that fit their interests and needs while becoming more knowledgeable about energy use and the science and mechanics behind its creation. If you are interested in learning more about home solar panels or seeing a wide array of solar panels, inverters and associated hardware that will suit the beginner or seasoned professional installer please visit our site.

Will Solar Energy Initiative Affect the Real Estate Market?

In February 2006, President Bush announced what's has come to be called the Solar America Initiative (SAI), designed to promote the widespread use of various solar energy technologies in homes throughout the United States by 2015. It's yet to be determined what effect SAI will have on America's sagging real estate market, and that may actually be beside the point in the initial stages of the program. The overall goal of the program is to expand America's electricity options while reducing the country's dependence on foreign oil, which will ultimately improve the country's overall economy and environment.
U.S. Department of EnergyThe push to incorporate more solar technology into American homes will be coming from many different directions, including the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), which has been given a mandate to encourage more use of solar heat and electricity in homes and businesses, beginning immediately.The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) recently released a document titled "A Guide to Federal Tax Credits for Solar Energy," offering details about a number of federal solar tax incentives that were enacted as part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Included in those incentives is a 30 percent tax credit (up to $2,000) for the installation of qualifying photovoltaic or solar water heating systems in the home. The same legislation increased the solar tax credit to businesses from 10 to 30 percent, with no cap on the amount of credit that can be claimed, if the systems are installed in 2006 or 2007. The goal of the tax incentives is to encourage market growth and improvement in solar technology by increasing the demand and acceptance of the concept. As solar technology becomes more ubiquitous, public acceptance should become more mainstream, as well, and providing attractive tax incentives for both homeowners and businesses is a good place to start.
Energy CrisisIn the face of what looks to be a long-term energy crisis, solar technology is beginning to make more and more sense to the average person. The solar industry is working with member of congress to try to extend the generous tax credit beyond the 2007 date, in hopes of making an even bigger impact on America's energy shortage. Extending the incentives can go a long way toward establishing the U.S. solar industry as a strong alternative to foreign oil. As American solar technology improves, more and more businesses and homes will begin to use the sun's energy to provide all or part of their heat, hot water, electricity, and cooling needs. In time, home buyers will undoubtedly begin to insist upon having solar technology built into their real estate packages, but for now, the Solar America Initiative should be considered just the first step in moving the United States toward energy independence and greater economic stability. In years to come, when solar technology has become so commonplace that's it's hardly given a second thought, it's very probable that solar advocates will look back at SAI as the cornerstone that made it all possible. Copyright © 2006 Jeanette J. Fisher
Jeanette Fisher, author of real estate investing and interior design books, also writes about Environmental Psychology. For more environment articles, see http://environmentpsychology.com/environment_ecology.htm

Solar Panel Energy Output - Factors That Effect Solar Panels Efficiency

Solar energy is a renewable form of energy that is produced by solar arrays. Solar arrays are built from a group of solar panels, and the panels are basically boxes that hold arrays of solar cells. If you are thinking to use solar energy to power your home, you need to do some research about solar panel energy output in order to predict how many solar cells and panels you need to build to produce enough power for your home.
However, generally, each panel vary significantly They have different specifications and made of different materials. Here are the factors you need to consider:
1- The materials you use:
If you use cheap and weak materials the solar panels energy output will not be as efficient as the expensive and strong ones. There are three types of solar panels for home, they are the monocrystalline, the polycrystaline and the thin solar panels. The monocrystalline type is the most expensive and has the highest efficiency to collect sunlight and the least efficient is the thin type.
2- Your location: For instance if you live in Arizona, you get more solar radiation than someone who lives in the mid west.
3- Solar energy output is also affected by weather and seasonal variations. The angle of the sun to the solar panel changes with the time of day and seasonal variations. Cloudy and rainy days contribute to less effectiveness of the sunlight collection.
4- The size of the panels: The bigger the size, the more efficient it will be.
If you want to make the panels on your own, you need to do some research to approximate the quantity of the panels that you need. It is said that usually each of these cells can produce up to 0.5 volts, but as have been discussed above it depends on the quality of the material you use. If you need higher output, you can get solar cells that have higher amplitude. Use this formula to approximate the size of the panels you are going to need:
Amp x Volts= the amount of power in watts.
Using bigger cells may boost the solar panels energy output. Although you can produce more power with larger cells, the whole structure would be very large and heavy, so it might not be practical in most of the situations.
However, usually every panel has the specification that tells you the maximum output you can get out of the panel at given conditions, usually it is based on 1000 watt per square meter, but 90 % of the time you do not get that. It only gives an idea of what you will get but no real numbers.
Do you know that it can cost up to $30,000 to hire professional to build solar panels for you? Save THOUSANDS by building your own home made solar panels by following simple step-step-by-step instructions at http://www.solarpanelsmadeeasy.com!

Vegas Sparkles With Solar Energy

In a plan that is less surprising than audacious, Las Vegas city fathers plan to place solar panels on top of carports at a number of city-owned and operated facilities.
The $11-million plan, will reportedly cut the city's electricity costs by about $300,000 a year when completed, and generate enough electricity to supply 170 homes.
The solar panels in question have a life expectancy of between 25 and 40 years (the first figure being closer to the expert's usual estimates), and the city's investment of $600,000 from a "green" building fund will reportedly be recaptured in about 15 years.
The rest of the funding - $4,150,000 of Energy Efficiency Community Block Grant funds (EECBG), $1,276,738 from Community Development Block Grant Recovery (CDBG-R, or ARRA) funds, and $5.1 million from New Clean Renewable Energy Bonds, as well as utility rebates for renewable energy - makes up the balance.
The project will initially start with three sets of panels mounted across 34 carport stalls and paid for by ARRA funding, and will be located at the new Stupak Community Center at 300 W. Boston Ave. (across the street from the Chester Stupak Park). The center, built in 2008 at a cost of $7.5 million, is nearly complete and contains 34,183 square feet of ESL and general classrooms, an indoor gym/aerobic fitness and weight control center, a kitchen, a library and a game room. Opening is scheduled for this winter.
Two other solar projects, also slated for carport roofs on public buildings, will finish the 950-kilowatt project, which is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the city's carbon footprint by 949 tons of carbon monoxide (which would have been produced by burning fossil fuels). Stupak Center solar project construction is expected to start in 2010.
The new Stupak Community Center is slated for completion this fall, with an opening proposed for this winter. The solar carport at the center is expected to break ground sometime in 2010.
The panels, funded from the Community Development Block Grant Recovery portion of ARRA, is the first project approved in the region, which includes Nevada, California, Arizona and Hawaii, and will provide between 10 and 30 percent of the center's power needs, depending on usage.
The panels also provide covered parking, and they, along with solar installations at the wastewater treatment plant, will move the city to 10 percent of renewable power by 2011, which is close to Nevada's Renewable Energy Standard (RES) of 25 percent of energy from renewables by 2025.
Cooler Planet is a leading solar resource for connecting consumers and commercial entities with local solar Installers. Cooler Planet's solar energy resource page contains articles and tools about solar panels to help with your solar project.

Why Should Solar Energy Be Used?

We're facing many challenges these days, but one of the ones that affects each and every one of us, to some extent or another, is pollution resulting from the ever-increasing amount of carbon emissions being released into the atmosphere and the resultant global warming.
Global warming is one of the prime motivators in the rapid increase in interest in the adoption of all forms of renewable energy and the push behind the even more rapid increase in the use of solar energy as a means to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. Doing so will reduce the amount of greenhouse gases being emitted and hopefully slow down, and maybe even halt, the further devastation caused by global warming.
Solar v Fossil Fuels - Battle Of The Giants!
The great thing about solar energy is that it is free energy that comes to us consistently, day in, day out, from the sun, so it's just a matter of tapping into that free energy. Not only that, it doesn't cause any pollution. Compare that with fossil fuels, the supply of which is diminishing rapidly and which cause massive amounts of pollution.
The rise in the cost of fossil fuels is directly impacting us, the consumers, in the form of ever-increasing electricity bills, among other things. That's one of the reasons so many people are becoming more interested in taking advantage of solar technology by having a solar electric system installed in their home to reduce, or even eliminate, these increasingly burdensome electricity bills.
Solar electric systems have no moving parts and do not produce any carbon emissions, so, not only do they result in lower electricity bills, but reduced pollution and, hopefully, a halt to global warming.
Overabundance Of Energy
The sun supplies solar energy every day - even on the most cloudy days - and, in fact, provides several thousand times more energy in one day than the whole planet uses in one year. We're currently tapping into a minute fraction of the solar energy available to us, but, fortunately, most countries and governments are now waking up to the real threat presented by carbon emissions and the incredible opportunity solar energy presents.
The number of applications being powered by solar energy is increasing rapidly, and now extends to transportation, including boats, planes and, although this technology is still in its infancy and is basically experimental, cars.
All this will increase our use of solar energy and reduce the amount that goes to waste, but we're still only scratching the surface.
A Solar Future
There's little doubt that all forms of renewable energy will become more prevalent in the future, which can only benefit both us and the planet. But, the renewable that will get the most attention will probably be solar, just because of the massive potential it holds for good.
Solar energy is already infiltrating our daily lives, as we see more and more rooftops with solar panels on them, and you don't have to wait long before you see or read or hear a news item related to solar. This will only increase in the future, as more and more everyday uses are found for solar energy, and that has to be a good thing.
There are many reasons why we should and do use solar energy, but the most pressing one is the increase in pollution caused by fossil fuels and the resultant impact on life and the planet in the form of global warming. Now is the time for us to wean ourselves off our dependence on fossil fuels and take advantage of the sun's abundant energy. After all, it's there for us to use, so let's do just that.
Grab your FREE report, and get much more information on solar energy and why we should take advantage of it by clicking on the only solar power resource you'll need. Ray Boreham suggests you'll find a wealth of information and tips on solar and renewable energy at http://www.all-you-need-is-solar.com/

Solar Energy Use In Home Design

'The sun is a constant source of energy. Everyday it provides us with 5000 times as much energy as the whole world needs.' (Unknown)
In the 1950s and '60s efficient energy use was often neglected in constructing buildings and houses, but the high energy prices of the 1970s changed that. Some buildings built in the 80's use only about 20% of the energy used in buildings constructed just ten years earlier. Techniques to save energy include designing and siting buildings to use passive solar heat, avoiding overlighting, and using better insulation. A "life-cycle" approach, which takes into account the total costs over the entire life of the building, rather than simply the initial construction cost or sales price, is encouraging greater efficiency.
SOLAR ENERGY IN SOUTH AFRICA
Climate
South Africa is one of the areas in the world with the highest count of sunny days per year in the world therefore making it also one of the most appropriate places in the world to use solar power energy should that be the only reason for using them.
A photovoltaic sell uses the sun's light to create an electric current and not the heat of the sun as is commonly thought. A photovoltaic sell actually decreases in efficiency when the sell is heated extremely because of the resistance building up in the material. Because of the above fact, one can see that these photovoltaic panels is actually less efficient in very warm climates. South Africa, in summertime, can be extremely hot and could cause a photovoltaic panel on certain summer days to work less efficient although not as significantly as 25% less efficient as it is said can be lost in desert-type climates.
Cost efficiency & economy
Eskom South Africa provides our country with some of the cheapest conventional unsustainable electricity costs in the world, and that is the main reason for solar energy technology not taking off in South Africa. Although a number of solar thermal panels is in operation, even in residential buildings in the country, photovoltaic panels was up to date just not cost effective enough to justify the money saved using conventional electricity for manufacturers making them available on a large scale. Because of the uncommonness and unavailability of these panels the prices of theses panels has not significantly decreased in South Africa as it has in other more technologically advanced and environmentally aware
countries.
Also, because the electricity has been so inexpensive in SA, the cost of paying off a solar electricity system that provides the same amount (or sufficient amount) of electricity as a conventional system, will take an extremely long time to pay off with the money saved without using conventional electricity, and most home owners in South Africa doesn't stay long enough in one home to justify the cost saving.
Another factor is that the technology is becoming more advanced day by day, and one might purchase a system today which will reach the end of it's life before the system has paid for itself with money saved from not using conventional electricity is over.
Sustainability & the environment
Eskom might well be one of the cheapest electricity providers in the world, but it is also a fact that eskom releases some of the most pollution in the atmosphere by burning coal to generate electricity. Although air pollution doesn't seem to be that big a problem here than in other countries where acid rain etc. is huge concerns for the community, it would be wise to sooner rather than later start to concentrate on the environment in South Africa and that is when solar power could start playing a big role as an energy provider.
Appropriate for us?
Solar panels can be used very effectively and appropriately in the remote areas around the country because the cost of connecting to the conventional power grid by laying cables might be even more expensive and once a solar PV system is installed one does not need any tools or technicians to maintain a PV panel regularly.
There are a number of places in our environment where solar power could be (and are already) used very effectively for example water pumps to dams in nature reserves. PV panels have also been used to power electric fencing in game reserves very successfully for interruptions in electricity is eliminated and big mammals like elephants has no chance of breaking through a fence as could be the case in an normal power interruption.
In conclusion, the use of solar power in South Africa isn't that far fetched when one look at the very appropriate weather conditions and the need to look at a more sustainable and renewable energy source for the future.
Written by Jere Botes, architect & founder of http://www.dreamhouses.co.za, a website dedicated to provide home builders, home renovators, home owners & developers with free professional advice on all aspects of home design, building & diy. Reproductions of this article are encouraged but must include a link pointing to http://www.dreamhouses.co.za

Mini Solar Systems, Portable Solar Power Wherever You Go

Solar energy is one of the answers for future power needs. Solar energy of the sun can be converted in the useful energy directly or indirectly. It can be directly converted in electricity or by using concentrated power in the different ways. The concentrated solar power plants can produce electricity by converting the solar power of the sun into high intensity heat using various types of mirrors for concentrating the sun rays. The concentrated power plants consists of two sections namely one which converts sun's energy into high intensity heat and the other one converts heat energy into electricity. The size solar plants can vary as it is required.
A 10 kilowatts solar plant can light up a village or it can be grid based plant generating several megawatts. Other mini solar systems can be combined with natural gas or oil based plants providing higher values and efficiency. Mini solar systems now a day are becoming quite popular in the Sun Belt regions around the world. Solar power is a carbon free energy and pollution free power. During night times many companies install systems like molten salt storage that can store enough energy during daytime which can be used during night time. Due to efficiency and low cost operation, nearly everywhere solar power plants are being planned. Solar power is very efficient can also replace the fossils fuels that are used in the traditional power plants. Solar energy could be very cheap in the future as the crude oil prices are soaring.
Solar power has also got new found friends in the name of environmentalists as it does not emit polluting gases like carbon dioxides, carbon monoxide and other green house gases as in the case of conventional power plants. In many rural places in the least developed and developing world there is shortage of electricity to light up the homes, hospital and schools, in the places like above solar power can light up lives of people. Solar power can be utilized to run other equipments such as computers and refrigeration systems.
Another way to harvest solar power is by using photo voltaic cells. Photo voltaic cells are those that can be seen on the roof tops of commercial buildings and private houses. These cells are covered with solar cells and it produces electricity when sun light is illuminated on it. This panels use the technology of photo electric effect. These photo panels absorb most sunlight when it falls on them directly so it has a mechanism that makes the sun light to fall on them normally. These mini solar systems are fuelled by sun rays and do not emit green house gases. They have a unique quality to store solar energy efficiently and dispatch it to grid when need arises even during cloudy days and also night. A power tower converts solar energy into electricity for the electricity grids. Solar power towers offer large-scale, distributed solutions to our nation's energy needs, particularly for peaking power. This mini solar system mechanism utilizes many large, sun-tracking mirrors to focus the sun rays on a receiver which is present at the top of a tower. A fluid is made to be heated in the receiver to generate steam, which, helps to conventional turbine to rotate and produce electricity.
For other great articles and lots of useful information about Solar power and mini solar systems be sure to visit SolarIdeas.net

Solar Panel Efficiency - Can Solar Panels Save Energy Or Do They "Waste" Energy?

Solar panel efficiency can be understood only if you have the necessary solar panel information including some basic facts. Recent energy analysis has proven that minimizing energy waste is one of the best and most important economic and environmental bargains of the Earth.Nowlike many people, you may ask: "Do solar cells save energy or waste it?" Read on to find out the answer to your question.
Solar Panel Efficiency: Do Solar Cells Save Energy Or "Waste" It?
To answer this question we need to know one thing: solar cells create energy saving substitute conventional energy. In other words, thanks to using solar power, one can save energy by electricity demand. In this way, you save not only energy, environment, but also your money. Green energy allows you to minimize your electricity bills. In one word, solar cells help to save energy and money by generating sunlight to electricity. This type of alternative energy is renewable and can be used in unlimited amount until sunlight and sunshine is over forever.
Why Is Saving Energy So Important?
Unfortunately, not all people worldwide realize the importance of using solar energy. Therefore we cannot claim that our planet saves energy as needed. According to experts, if all people worldwide became enough serious about energy efficiency, our planet could save about 1 trillion dollar each and every year. As a result, global energy efficiency would increase in half within next 5-10 years.
Conclusion:
Now you are aware of the important solar generator information. It is the very time to apply what you already know in action in order to provide solar energy efficiency in the world.
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Solar Energy Pros and Cons

There is no single "perfect" energy producing technology. All of them have advantages and disadvantages, even solar power. Let's take a look at both sides of the issue for solar power.

Solar Energy Advantages:

1. Solar energy is a renewable resource, for all practical purposes.
2. Except for the processes involved in manufacturing the materials, solar energy does not give off any harmful substances.
3. Sun, unlike fossil fuels, does not exist only in specific pockets of the earth: it is everywhere, although not in evenly distributed concentrations.
4. Sunlight is free.
5. While far from perfect, the technology required to use solar radiation as energy to produce heat, light, mechanical power and electricity already exists.
6. Small solar power systems are easily installed.
7. The systems are very low maintenance: they have no moving parts (except for fans and pumps, for example) and can last a long time.
8. Small systems require very little in the way of "monitoring" for routine operation.
9. Given the right data, it is almost always possible to predict how much power a solar energy system will produce.
10. The systems are quiet and increasingly unobtrusive.

Solar Power Disadvantages1. The initial costs for components can be high.
2. Rarely efficient enough, predictable enough, or powerful enough to provide a substantial portion of a specific user's needs: needs efficient storage for "down" times.
3. Not every location is a feasible site for solar.
4. Solar "farms," like almost all large-scale building projects, are subject to the "NIMBY" syndrome ("Not in MY backyard!").
Alternative Energy is a crucial link in our energy future if we are to cut the oil cord. We present thoughts, ideas, info and news about alternative energy at Alternative Energy HQ - http://alternativeenergyhq.com

Build a Home Solar Power System for Less Than $2500?

$40,000. That was the quote that I was given to install a solar power system in my average sized home. For that price, I could count on generating about $250 a month in electricity. The math seemed to work (With $5000 down and $35,000 financed over 10 years at 3.5% that was about $203 a month, so the savings worked - barely). But it was still $40,000 dollars!!!
I deliberated. What if it did not work as advertised? What if it was a cloudy year? What if I just didn't want those big solar panels stuck to my roof. I started to talk myself out of it and consulted an expert (an electrician friend) for final confirmation before killing the idea; however, I was surprised when my electrician friend said that he could source the parts for about $2500 from a local supplier and assemble them on site for another $1500. Total cost for home made solar power was about $4000. The financial math started to look more and more interesting. Now I was saving $3000 a year with an initial investment of $4000! The payback period was 12 months, and then I'd save $3000 a year thereafter.
With the added excitement came added uncertainty. Not only was I not sure of the savings claim the professional solar installation team gave me, now I was less sure about the quality (or power output) of home made solar power. I decided if I was going to go with home made solar panels, I needed to educate myself. I bought a series of books and videos and discovered that the key components to solar panels were solar cells. I needed 36 cells per panel and needed between 30 and 60 panels (I have a lot of trees near my roof, blocking out much of the sun). My friend the electrician could source solar cells for about $4 a piece. He also needed wires, solder, a DC to AC converter, a special array of batteries that could store power for later use, acrylic white boards (the back), plexiglass for the front (to protect the cells) and an aluminum frame. While, he estimated that he could source the cells for $4 each, I found them on Amazon for $2. I wasn't going to hunt for the other material, I figured the hassle was not worth it, but 50 percent off the most expensive component was still 50 percent off.
The next week the electrician was off and running. He laid the solar cells out on the white acrylic boards, soldered and wired them together, and then assembled them in a frame around the panel. He then covered the panel with plexiglass. After two days (including two meal breaks) he was finished with the panels - he was then ready to wire them to my home and battery array, as well as the converter and the house. That took him a day.
From start to finish a long weekend hours. I watched in awe, I was also a little upset. If I had known it was that easy I would have done it myself!!!!
Does the system work? Yes, as advertised, last month my bill was down over $250 from the same time last year.
There it is, demystified. Not bad eh?
Warning: you can find many good books on assembling a solar array for your house. It is not difficult, but you do need the assistance of a professional electrician when you get to the point where you are connecting the system to your house and to the grid, and most important to electricity.
My name is Geoff Mitchell. I hope you join me in my journey to find affordable solar energy for you home. You can find more information on this and other related subjects at http://www.GreenEarth101.com
Geoff


Solar Power - The Upside and the Downside

With the continuing rise of utility costs around the world, we must start thinking of renewable sources of energy rather than what we rely on now. Though there are a few different options available today for renewable sources of energy, I personally prefer solar power over the rest. The sun already emits much more than enough energy to power every home in the world; we just all have to take advantage of harnessing it. You may think that turning your home into a solar home isn't possible, but believe me, it is. No matter what your income is, there are cost effective ways to do it.
So let's take a look at the pros and cons of solar power. I prefer to get the bad over with first, so we'll start there. First off, if you're looking to do this both quickly and cost effectively, it's probably not going to happen. When you decide to go solar, you have to make a choice at the beginning - do I want to get everything up and going right away, but spend more money? Or do I want to save money, but put more time and effort into my solar system? If money isn't an option, than you can order preassembled kits with include the solar panels you'll need, all the wiring and tools, as well as an instructional guide or video to take you through the process. These systems generally work extremely well, but can cost over $10,000 to cover your entire roof with solar panels. If this isn't an option for you financially, continue reading.
So let's look at the positives of solar energy. First off, if you don't have that kind of money, you can build your own solar panels and save thousands! The parts are readily available, usually at local stores, but always online. All you have to do is follow instructions and you can have your own built. This obviously takes more time than ordering them preassembled, but for the amount of money you're going to save it's well worth it. Another positive of solar power is the fact that it is good for our planet. It won't damage the planet, the ozone layer or anything else. It'll create jobs and help put a stop to damage to our planet! Also, if you happen to store more energy in a given month than you use, then you will actually receive a check from your power company for the difference! Getting paid for your energy, how great is that?!
For most of us, it's a no brainer - solar power is the wave of tomorrow and it's advisable to jump aboard now. Look around online for instructional videos that'll take you step-by-step through the process of building your own solar panels and you'll be up and going in no time. It may cost a small amount to purchase these videos, but the value in the long run is astronomical.
Gary Taylors has been researching the uses of solar energy for YEARS - and now you can find out what he's learned by checking out Find Green Energy today!

Solar Energy Advantages - Best Pros & Cons For Using Solar Energy

The debate on the use of solar energy advantages is intensifying as the dangers of traditional energy sources are exposed on a daily basis. There are however two main factors to consider when it comes to making a choice on the sustainability of the "green"alternative and it all boils down to emotions and economics.
The unfortunate BP Gulf disaster has stirred up a lot of emotions around the issue of the dangers and long-term effects of fossil fuels on the environment. It would however be dangerous to make important long-term decisions based on emotional grounds only. The old adage of "count to ten first "not only applies in our day to day experiences but also when it comes to decision making of this nature.
It would thus be wise to do a little research on the economic impact the use of renewable solar energy would have on your life on short, medium and long-term basis. Let us start by drawing up a solar energy pro and con list and as they say in the classics, let us start with the bad news first:
  • Solar energy can only be produced during the day time hours and in effect only when and where the sun shines. Living in Antarctica will make the decision a no-brainer!
  • Solar panels installed by contractors can be expensive
  • Authorities are slow in setting up structures in the form of incentives to award this form of pro activity.
As far as the pros are concerned let us consider the following facts:
  • No drastic steps are needed initially. You can start with solar powered products.
  • The only raw material required is the sun which of course is free and generally in abundance.
  • Costs will keep on coming down as technology matures and improves and rebates and incentives start kicking in.
  • Sunlight is an inexhaustible source.
  • Solar power is clean, efficient and maintenance is low mainly because there are no moving parts.
  • You can start small by electrifying certain aspects of your home like your hot water system first. This system is traditionally one of the biggest consumers of electricity in our homes.
  • Installation of solar energy has become a very popular and relatively inexpensive DIY project in many homes.
You do not have to be an activist or rich person to own a solar energy home and embrace the green effect and truly contribute to the long-term health of our planet. There are some short term financial sacrifices one will have to make, but these are dwarfed by the long term financial and environmental benefits that would be generated by embracing the concept of renewable solar energy advantages.
Learns & share more about using solar energy and solar house plans [http://www.esolarhouseplans.com].

Great Reasons for Taking Online Solar Energy Training

Nowadays, more concerned companies and individuals are becoming part of the journey to seek renewable alternative energy sources. The sun is one such source; and by the end of the 20th century, solar panels have become more visible and awareness of their benefits to people and environment increased. Also, online solar energy training are mushrooming as the clamour for more solar PVs gets even louder each year. More people are beginning to see the opportunities presented by the solar energy, and there is more than one good reason why they should engage it.
The demand for renewable energy alternatives cuts across many industries and sectors. The global warming has increased the consciousness for the care and preservation of the environment grows. With it is the effort to discover means to replace traditional energy sourcing and usage with earth-friendly options. Manufacturers, plantations, offices, and even residential homes are hopping into the green band wagon. In fact, so much so that the quest for renewable energy systems has given birth to solar energy industries. The number of online solar energy training programs has increased alongside as well.
Moreover, solar energy products and services have become an industry itself that has spawned opportunities for employment. It has created new job titles. The solar industry has become a niche for many professionals. And because there are schools that provide online solar energy training, more people are beginning to contemplate on the merits of gaining extensive knowledge on the industry. Professionals in other fields, such as marketing and sales, find the need to arm themselves with the know-how so that they are able to sell solar products effectively.
Solar industry, besides introducing novel job descriptions, can be a business opportunity as well. Enterprising men and women are quick to pick up on the demand coming from consumer products companies for systems that will replace conventional energy use and resourcing. Solar PVs and solar thermal outfits have never been in greater demand than these days. But before they can put together an enterprise, intimate knowledge of the science behind solar energy and its application has to be acquired by enlisting in online solar energy training.
The solar industry is interrelated with other sectors, particularly residential and education. The business and employment opportunities are extended to the real estate and academic sectors. It's not just factory plants that desire solar panels, homeowners and renters too would like to be greener in building and operating their residential structures. With the tax rebates awarded to eco-friendly structures, the demand for solar technicians continues to rise unabated.
Then, there are the online solar trainings that are abuzz and aplenty to fill the gap for more solar PV designers, installers, and technicians. If there is a seeming lack of practitioners in the solar energy industry, then a more strategic approach is to encourage current solar technicians to teach and pass on what they know to others. Besides their practice in the field, they can be instructors at colleges and private schools.
Are you looking for more information regarding solar energy training? Visit http://solarschoolpa.com today!

Advantages of Solar Power - Top Ten Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy benefits us on a personal, financial and global level. Listed here are the 10 most notable advantages of solar power.
Although the cost of solar energy could hardly be listed as an advantage, prices have been on a downward trend since the first solar panel was built and indications are that the trend will continue until prices reach parity with those of power plants and very possibly continue it's descent from there.
Without further ado, here they are from 10 to number 1, Solar Power at Home's Top Ten Advantages of Solar Power
* 10 -- Payback Factor It takes a significant amount of time for a solar power system to pay for itself at current prices but while we're making our fervent calculations to determine when we'll be getting free power we should remember that, currently, there are no power companies that are offering the possibility of free power at anytime in the future.
* 9 -- Low Maintenance Our number 9 benefit of solar power is that the system requires very little maintenance. In an off grid system, battery maintenance is the biggest regular task. If your system is tied to the grid batteries aren't necessary and your maintenance chores will consist of monitoring your system and occasionally removing debris or obstructions from the panels.
* 8 -- Long Life Relatively new in the energy arena, it was estimated, in the 60's and 70's, that a photovoltaic system would have an active life of around 20 years and that power production would be minimal or non existent soon after that. As the early systems have passed their 20th and 30th birthdays and still functioning well the estimated productive lifetime of a solar power home system has been adjusted upward to around 40 years. Most solar panels come with a 20 year (or better) warranty.
* 7 -- Remote Capabilities The more remote your location the less expensive it is to enjoy the advantages of solar energy in comparison to grid power. Additionally, because maintenance requirements are very low solar panels are exceptionally well suited for remote or difficult to access locations.
* 6 -- Home Equity Increase Not only will a photovoltaic system increase the value of your home but attention to environmental details make a home much more sellable in the future (although you can take it with you when you move).
* 5 -- Free Fuel The system costs money but the fuel to power it is free. Also there are no fuel taxes. Hopefully they never find a way to tax sunshine.
* 4 -- Independence Using solar energy can free us from dependence on not-so-friendly nations who would withhold resources for ransom given the slightest provocation. Besides, it's liberating making your own power wherever you want. (I write this as we are anchored in our sailboat off Mexico's west coast. My laptop is being powered exclusively with solar energy)
* 3 -- Renewable Fuel Solar energy is the most abundant source of fuel on the planet. So rapidly renewable that in 40 minutes the sun spills enough solar energy upon the planet to energize every power outlet on the globe for a year. The possibilities for this resource are difficult to conceive.
* 2 -- Zero Carbon Emissions One of the biggest advantages of solar power is it is simply soaked up. Clean solar power, produced at your home, circumvents the need for your energy to be dug up from deep within the earth, transported over land and sea (at great environmental expense when spills occur) and burned, producing clouds of gasses and toxins. A worthy opponent to crude oil we think.
* 1 -- Long Term Solution The Number one, numero uno, big Kahuna, advantage of solar energy... is that it is a solution that will be there for the long haul. Unlike fossil fuels which have been on the road to depletion since the first day we used them, solar energy is capable of powering the planet into the foreseeable future.
Hi, I'm Debra from http://www.solarpowerathome.com Solar Power At Home, a web resource for those of us who have questions about solar energy but don't speak geek. Here you'll find tons of information to help you decide whether solar power is right for you. Check out our page on all of the advantages of solar energy http://www.solarpowerathome.com/advantagesofsolarenergy.html here.


Solar Power - The Endless Energy Sou

Most of us already know that the price tag of electrical energy, gasoline, natural gas, wood together with other energetics are repeatedly going up. Regarding that base we must always ask ourselves can our house budget stand with so many expenses. Each individual investment will need some amount of cash but still this isn't the end and even with investing each single day by day or every year by year we pay for electrical power, natural gas, wood, etc. Keep in mind that even with the use of solar-energy systems it is necessary to do some investment, even though it is minimal when compared with others. Exactly how? So all expenditures are initially with the setting up of the solar system and just about everything ends here. We work with over the following 20, 30, 50 years or better for good at no cost.
Each single hour from the sun reaches enough energy to satisfy our universal energy requests for a full year. Solar energy is released within the relevant technology with the usage of the energy of the sun. At this time, the world is utilized slightly less than 0.1% of the solar energy to fulfill world energy hunger.
Solar thermal energy is excreted by the effect of sunlight. They emit some radiation that reaches the Earth's surface. These rays work extremely well for warming, making use of thermal collectors, or for the production of electrical power via photovoltaic modules (active method of using solar energy).
This type of energy can be used in passive mode, i.e. without mechanical system as an intermediary.
Fundamentally, with the collection of solar radiation in an proper way, we are able to receive heat, electrical power and amount of light. Heat is excreted by using thermal collectors and electrical energy with the help of so-called photovoltaic modules. The two processes are quite distinctive in terms of technology and also by ways of their application.
A lot of people are familiar with photovoltaic cells - generally known as solar panels, which today are mounted on the spacecrafts, the roofs of many buildings and small calculators. The principle of functioning is simple - cells have semiconductor in them, and the period they are warmed by sun, they generate electrons and those electrons than make electricity.
On large scale, there are whole entire plants that generate electrical energy utilizing solar energy. They can work with different method for getting electricity. In a few solar energy is applied as a heat source to heat the water to steam, which in the end create electrical energy - identical to coal in power plant or a nuclear power plant.
There will be other techniques utilizing solar energy. Movable mirrors focus sunlight to collected tower where it is positioned receiver. It melts salt which in turn on the generator.
Passive solar technologies are establishing water tanks on the roofing to supply the house with hot water, special materials that absorb solar energy in the form of heat and at night warmth the rooms.
Solar energy facts tells that solar energy is an inexhaustible method to get energy, and it has no pollution and no noise. This technology is very diverse. For example, solar panels create electrical power for satellites orbiting the Earth.
This is an earth friendly method to obtain energy (it does not corrupt the environment), inexhaustible and 100% free. On top of that, it plays a role to sustainable development and bettering our standard of living, and illustrates another choice in terms of the use of fossil fuels that pollutes the atmosphere and is limited.
Solar Energy is endless green energy that we can and must use if we want to save our Nature for us and for next generations.

Solar Energy - The Futuristic Source of Energy

Almost all the non-renewable sources of energy are progressing towards a state of exhaustion. If we do not harness the power of the renewable sources to their maximum potential, we may face severe consequences in the future. This is why it has become essential to identify and explore the renewable sources of energy, such as solar energy. The sun is probably the biggest reason behind the existence of our planet.
However, there are certain challenges associated with harnessing solar power in an optimal fashion. For instance, the following three questions arise when you first think about utilizing solar power:
• Earth receives only a minuscule amount of sun's energy. How can the heat reception and utilization at our planet be maximized?
• We receive the solar radiations only during the day. How can we make up for the energy to last through the night?
• Even after all the evolutions in technology to harness solar power, we can still only manage to use the energy falling on a given surface. How can we concentrate all this energy at one specific spot?
All these questions compel us to think about the future of solar power. Many researchers have predicted that solar energy is the energy of future, and will soon be available as a fully competitive energy source along with the present sources.
Solar Energy Today
In the current scenario, solar electricity is mainly generated using solar panels or photovoltaic (PV) cells in a home solar system. In a home solar system, solar panels simply convert sunlight into electricity, which is then supplied further. The main drawbacks associated with the solar panels of the past were the efficiency and the absence of power in the night. However, recent developments in solar panels have resulted in increased efficiency of the solar panels as well as made it possible to produce limited amounts of electricity even during the night.
Solar Energy Future
Solar panels are now globally used in the home-based solar systems as well as for commercial purposes. One of the main reasons for growing popularity of home solar systems is the guarantee that comes with the solar panels. These solar panels guarantee to offer you the continuous power supply for 25 years. Also, the government incentive schemes run by several state government become a motivating factor behind using solar power.
It may still take a while until we can completely depend on solar energy for our power requirements. However, with the present rate of fossil fuel consumption, more and more people are turning towards the sun as the ultimate source of energy.
Roberts Franklin writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, solar energy, the environment, and home decor. For more of his articles on Home Solar System California, please visit Solar Energy California.

Thứ Tư, 30 tháng 1, 2013

Home Solar Power Systems - The Easiest, Cheapest Method to Generate Renewable Energy

Ever since man has existed, sunlight was and will always be accessible. For a number of years now, a good number of persons are complaining about the ever increasing electrical energy bills. Simply because of this, home solar power systems have became wonderful alternatives to conventional fuel sources.
Sunlight is readily available in particular in places where they get a great deal of sunshine. With the yearly improvements in modern technology, photo voltaic electric power for homes is now far more advanced.
With just a small amount of sunlight, you are able to get far more electric power. With only a few solar electric panels, it is possible to produce the needed electrical energy for your home. Even should you live in a small house, it is possible to install a solar panel.
Most of today's houses aren't adequately oriented to get a whole lot of sunlight and this has been a difficulty. New photo voltaic power programs are much more effective and can create high quality electrical power with less sunlight. The modern photo voltaic panels are installed at steeper angles but can still tolerate sunlight. So, if you are property doesn't have an ideal orientation, it would nevertheless be feasible to produce solar power.
Solar electric panels are normally installed on top on the roof together with an efficient rail system. The panels are capable of sliding to the best position to obtain sunlight. The system is also perfect just in case you desire to expand later on.
Before you set up your home solar power systems, you should establish the electric power requirements of your house. To calculate your monthly electrical consumption, you'll need to go over your electrical bills and decide the average usage. After that, you are able to pick the right systems size.
If this is your very first time to use solar power electricity, it would best to start off using the simplest project you possibly can come across. Make room for expansion as well so you can add to the program little by little, especially if you have restricted resources.
Even if you use photo voltaic electrical power as a supplemental method, you will surely be able to cut your bills by big amounts inside the coming months.
For instance, for straightforward projects, you are able to start out working on outdoor lights, garden fountains, etc. Later on, you'll be able to use pv energy for your indoor electrical needs.
When installing a solar power electricity process, one of the most important considerations is the inverter. Make certain that the inverter's size is properly chosen; you see, this will be responsible for converting direct current(DC) into alternating current(AC). Pick the appropriate size inverter so that you simply can meet all your electrical demands.It's a very good idea to buy a bigger inverter even if you are only planning to install a smaller program. That way, whenever you make a decision to expand in the future, you might just wire them in.
If you're not an electrician and you have limited knowledge about electrical energy and electrical components, it is best to hire someone to connect the inverter. The pv power method needs to be connected into your home's electrical supply. Dangerous voltages are present and there is danger you may be shocked. An electrician can comply while using local codes to ensure your project can pass any inspection.
State and federal government also provides incentives for homeowners who choose to implement home solar power systems. It is possible to avail of loans or grants so that you can set up the solar electrical power system soon. Take advantage of these special programs so that you can begin benefiting from an effective and clean electrical technique.
Looking for inexpensive solar power? Click on the Home Solar Power Systems link. You Can't Find a Better Deal on Solar Energy than at Solar Power Electricity.

The Solar Energy Panel Phenomenon

The Solar Craze
Have you been searching around the internet looking for ways to save money on your energy bill? With the latest reports of utilities on the rise there seems to be a trend going around regarding solar power. Solar power has been on the rise the last couple of years. Well actually solar energy has always been in the backs of people's minds for decades. We just have not had any good ways for the common homeowner to utilize the power from a solar energy panel.
The Early Years of A Solar Energy Panel
Solar electricity started to become popular in the late 70s. The reason solar electricity never gained very much momentum was due to the fact the solar energy panel of the late 70's did not offer a whole lot of energy savings. The reason these panels did not offer savings is because energy prices were not a concern and the environment had not got as much publicity as it does today. The second reason solar electricity did not gain popularity in the early years was because the solar energy panel only had a 10 year life expectancy and would lose their a lot of efficiency after the first 5 years.
Solar Energy Panel Of Today
Today's solar power is really starting to take off with no stopping in site. Many homeowners are utilizing this "old new found technology" to save money on their electric bills. With all of the new advances in the solar energy panel, people are finding out in some cases they can save almost 80% on their energy bills. Once this fact was realized, solar energy panel sales started to increase dramatically over the last few years. The most obvious advance with these new age panels are cosmetic issues, the panels are a lot smaller and attractive than the ones of old. However the main advance is the technology of the new age panels. With all of the new development in the materials the panels of today are a lot more efficient than the ones that grandpa used to buy, making it worth the cost of the installation.
A New Contracting Industry
Solar energy panels have become so popular these days there are now many contractors specializing in installing them on new and older homes. With the high demand for this technology installing these energy sources can be quite expensive at this time. You can make your money back with a professionally installed device however the rate of return on your investment may take between 8 and 15 years or more in many cases.
The Do It Yourself Phenomenon
Don't be alarmed by the high cost of solar energy panel installations. With professionally installed devices costing a lot of money homeowners are finding a new do it yourself industry. A lot of homeowners are finding video guides on the internet which will teach them how they can build their own panel. These video guides are very popular because they can save you thousands on a solar energy panel system. The panels don't cost a lot of money to build and most of all they are very easy to install. I have talked to people which have claimed they can build a solar energy panel for under 200 dollars. This is why it is becoming a big do it yourself industry.

It's All About The Savings

Whichever option you were to choose regarding solar power. It is a great way to save on your energy bill and reduce your carbon footprint. Even people that are not concerned with the environment are still saving lots of money by using solar electricity techniques. There are many options available for you. If you are handy or would like to enjoy a new hobby I would recommend you try building a solar energy panel yourself. If you are not very handy or would not have an interest in trying to build a panel I would check around for a contractor in your area and see what types of installations are available to you.
Steve Johnson is a green enthusiast who has been reviewing green products for the last 6 years. For simple ways to save energy at home you can also read his newsletter at Solar Energy Panel [http://www.solarpanelsthatwork.com] More energy saving tips can be found at Build a Solar Panel [http://www.solarpanelsthatwork.com/buildsolarpanels.html].

The Solar Energy Panel Phenomenon

The Solar Craze
Have you been searching around the internet looking for ways to save money on your energy bill? With the latest reports of utilities on the rise there seems to be a trend going around regarding solar power. Solar power has been on the rise the last couple of years. Well actually solar energy has always been in the backs of people's minds for decades. We just have not had any good ways for the common homeowner to utilize the power from a solar energy panel.
The Early Years of A Solar Energy Panel
Solar electricity started to become popular in the late 70s. The reason solar electricity never gained very much momentum was due to the fact the solar energy panel of the late 70's did not offer a whole lot of energy savings. The reason these panels did not offer savings is because energy prices were not a concern and the environment had not got as much publicity as it does today. The second reason solar electricity did not gain popularity in the early years was because the solar energy panel only had a 10 year life expectancy and would lose their a lot of efficiency after the first 5 years.
Solar Energy Panel Of Today
Today's solar power is really starting to take off with no stopping in site. Many homeowners are utilizing this "old new found technology" to save money on their electric bills. With all of the new advances in the solar energy panel, people are finding out in some cases they can save almost 80% on their energy bills. Once this fact was realized, solar energy panel sales started to increase dramatically over the last few years. The most obvious advance with these new age panels are cosmetic issues, the panels are a lot smaller and attractive than the ones of old. However the main advance is the technology of the new age panels. With all of the new development in the materials the panels of today are a lot more efficient than the ones that grandpa used to buy, making it worth the cost of the installation.
A New Contracting Industry
Solar energy panels have become so popular these days there are now many contractors specializing in installing them on new and older homes. With the high demand for this technology installing these energy sources can be quite expensive at this time. You can make your money back with a professionally installed device however the rate of return on your investment may take between 8 and 15 years or more in many cases.
The Do It Yourself Phenomenon
Don't be alarmed by the high cost of solar energy panel installations. With professionally installed devices costing a lot of money homeowners are finding a new do it yourself industry. A lot of homeowners are finding video guides on the internet which will teach them how they can build their own panel. These video guides are very popular because they can save you thousands on a solar energy panel system. The panels don't cost a lot of money to build and most of all they are very easy to install. I have talked to people which have claimed they can build a solar energy panel for under 200 dollars. This is why it is becoming a big do it yourself industry.

It's All About The Savings

Whichever option you were to choose regarding solar power. It is a great way to save on your energy bill and reduce your carbon footprint. Even people that are not concerned with the environment are still saving lots of money by using solar electricity techniques. There are many options available for you. If you are handy or would like to enjoy a new hobby I would recommend you try building a solar energy panel yourself. If you are not very handy or would not have an interest in trying to build a panel I would check around for a contractor in your area and see what types of installations are available to you.
Steve Johnson is a green enthusiast who has been reviewing green products for the last 6 years. For simple ways to save energy at home you can also read his newsletter at Solar Energy Panel [http://www.solarpanelsthatwork.com] More energy saving tips can be found at Build a Solar Panel [http://www.solarpanelsthatwork.com/buildsolarpanels.html].

Solar Energy History-Present-Future

The genesis of solar energy history goes way back to the year 1838 to an observer by the name of Edmund Becquerel who at that time had published findings on the capability of materials to change light into raw energy. Although it was fascinating at that time no one took the opportunity to pursue it then.
As time would have it, the first patent design for a motor running on solar energy was done by a man called Augustin Mouchot in 1860. Fortunately for him the monarch of France funded his project which gave him the ability to create a device that would turn solar energy into the first steam engine. This however was the beginning of things to come, for August went on to illustrate that the sun's rays can be used to make ice by connecting the steam engine to a refrigerator device. A medal was awarded to him for his discovery.
Notwithstanding, his one of a kind research was shortly becoming a financial burden for the French, who in turn seek out a cheaper arrangement with the English for a supply of coal. August worked assiduously, trying to come up with alternatives but there was no interest in such a commodity any longer for the French monarch. So the funding of the researches came to a halt!
Experimentation
The first book which was written on solar energy was by a man called William Adams in 1876. The book was titled "A Substitute for Fuel in Tropical Countries." William had conducted a number of experiments along with his student Richard Day using mirrors; they were able to create a 2.5 horsepower steam engine which was much bigger than Augustin's horsepower steam engine, whose power was just 0.5. Their design became known as the (Power Tower Concept) and is still a part of today's world.
In 1883, Charles Fritz was able to convert the sun's ray into electricity. The solar cell converted at 2% max which became a great turning point in solar energy history.
It was a Frenchman (Charles Teller) at the time of 1885 that experimented with a non-concentrating and non-reflecting solar motor. Charles became the first person to install a solar energy system onto his roof for heating water for domestic use; no one was able to achieve it before 1885. But Charles himself had a passion for refrigeration. As a matter of fact, he was deemed the father of the particular trade. Nevertheless, his desire to pursue his dreams into refrigeration caused a lack of interest towards solar energy researches and experiments, and of course the whole solar energy thing became dormant. Who knows what our present state would have been if he had only persevered.
The first Solar Company was by John Erickson, a Swedish inventor and researcher, who also had a part to play in the development of the solar energy, created a solar power steam engine that carried similar features as Augustin's design between the years of 1868-1888. John was the one that coined these words: - "A couple of thousand years dropped in the ocean of time will completely exhaust the coal fields of Europe, unless, in the meantime, the heat of the sun is employed."
Solar Energy -Industrialization
By the time of the birthing and the dawn of the twentieth century, solar energy was no longer operated as one man experimentation, but it rather became industrialized. In 1892 Aubrey Eneas formed the very first Solar Energy Company -"The Solar Motor Co." all the way through to 1905. The company kicked off with its mission by selling the world's first consumer solar energy system to one Dr. A. J. Chandler for an astonishing figure of $2,160.00. The unit did not last a week before disaster struck and it was destroyed in a windstorm. The second unit that was sold also got destroyed in a hailstorm shortly after. These streams of events led to the company's demise causing their doors to close forever.
Largest Solar Energy System Henry Willsie also took a shot at it by building two huge solar plants in the California state. Henry manages to be the first to operate power at night after storing it in the day. His company was successful in getting the logistics up and running but, it did not succeed in the area of marketing its units to the public and eventually had to close its doors permanently in 1904.
Sun Power Co. constructed the biggest and most cost-effective solar energy system covering 10,000 square feet. Though it was able to produce an enormous amount of steam it was unable to provide sufficient pressure. The merging of Frank Sherman and E.P. Haynes in 1906 gave birth to Sun Power Co ltd. They went on to build an irrigation plant on the outskirt of Cairo that suffered an unfortunate end through the Great War in 1914.
Solar Power - Advancements
The 1950s - the 1960s we saw a couple of advancement towards the development of the solar energy starting with the boys at Bell Laboratories, who accidentally discovered the use of silicon that evidently led them to put together a solar panel, that gave a rate of 6%. The commercial solar cell which was the first of its kind was made available to the public in 1956 at a cost of $300 per wattage. Space programs also got involved using solar technologies. The first satellite to used solar energy to generate electricity was in 1958.
Energy Crisis We recalls the energy crisis in 1970 (OPEC oil embargo). It was not until then, that those who were in authority realized how dependable our existence was on non-renewable resources, such as coal, oil and gas that they relentlessly seek alternative forms of energy. The price of solar cells had drop to an all-time low of $20.00 per wattage.
Solar Energy Failures and Lasting Potentials
The company that were producing 95% of the world's largest amount of solar electricity in the 1980s to 1991, was situated in Los Angele and had to close their doors permanently. This closure was due to the withdrawal of their investors who became frustrated and withdrew from the project because the declining of the non- renewable fossil fuels was irreversible, while governmental incentives also, were not promising. These were the words of the chairman of the board of directors: "The failure of the world's largest solar electric company was not due to technological or business judgment failures but rather to failures of government regulatory bodies to recognize the economic and environmental benefits of solar thermal generating plants."
The Earth's Future It was calculated that solar energy that is absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere through the ocean and land masses is approx. 3,850,000 (EJ) per year. In the year 2002 generated more energy in one hour than the world used in one year. There were approx. 3,000 EJ per year in biomass which photosynthesis captures.
Having the revelation of solar energy history, has informed us as to how we may go forward as a generation seeking a greener earth. The quantum of solar energy that hits the earth's surface is so vast that in one year it is about twice the amount that will ever be absorb from all of the earth's non-renewable resources of coal, oil, natural gas and uranium all together.
Hi, my name is Jeroam Des Vignes and I am very passionate about our earth's condition. I will like to use this medium to educate and sensitize people on the subject of solar energy history. If you are someone with similar passion for our environment then I strongly recommend you go to this site immediately.
http://www.alternative-solar-energy.org

Solar Energy Panels - Tips & Information on Sourcing Parts

Solar Energy Panels are just part of the every growing world of alternative energy solutions. Sustainable energy for homes and business can come in many forms, solar, wind, and even hydro electric and geo-thermal energy are all viable sources, depending on where you live. Wind and solar are probably the most commonly found, because the materials for both of these power sources are relatively easy to find and put together.
Solar Energy Panels, used with whole house solar power systems can easily be obtained from many sources. There are even many websites that sell portable solar power, folding panels, or ones that even roll up are offered. These complete systems can be taken anywhere, even hiking and camping, wherever you need some power for your cell phone, lap top, etc. Many of these are very affordable, in some cases can be found for under $100.
You can find tons of information on solar energy panels, from brand new modules, DIY kits, and even used ones. With photovoltaic cells becoming cheaper and cheaper, you can even put together a complete panel very inexpensively. There are even ways to get your panels for free, and here is a tip on doing so. Many construction companies use portable solar power on work sites. You see these all the time when you are driving through construction, but you probably never wondered about them. These panels go through a lot of abuse on the side of the road. Whenever one becomes damaged, they usually deem it unsafe and replace them.
The construction companies find it really hard, and expensive to dispose of these solar energy panels. If you speak to the owner, and let them know that you are interested in taking them off of their hands, in many cases they will just give them to you. In most cases, only a small part of the panel is damaged, and that piece can easily be replaced. Another place you may be able to find free panels is from businesses that rely heavily on solar energy to run their place of work. Because they are constantly upgrading to the latest technologies, they tend to replace these every few years or so. Many have programs that you can apply too so you can get on a list of people the company will donate their used panels too.
There are many advantages of using solar energy panel systems, and other alternative energy sources. The biggest is cutting back on the need to be on the regular power grid, and in some cases being free on power bills altogether. It reduces pollution, lowers the impact of climate change, and can lower your carbon foot print. There are so many appliances that are high efficiency products, that are specifically designed for alternative energy uses. The demand for these products is so great, that the costs have come down considerable in recent years.
You can find many sources of information online, and there are more and more companies in your local area that also have started specializing in alternative energy installation. DIY plans and kits are also available, reducing costs even more. Solar energy panels are plentiful, and can even be made yourself, over the course of just a few weekends.
Using Solar Energy Panels on our homes and businesses or Home Wind Power in our world today can be a great benefit to us personally, financially and it can also benefit every man, woman and child when we use green energy. Visit our website to learn more about how we are building our own Solar Energy Panels

The Benefits of Solar Energy: Using a Solar Panel and Charger

Due to its nature as an infinite energy resource and the low costs involved in its use and maintenance, solar energy is increasingly being used in many households across the globe. Solar power is also used as an alternative to conventional fossil fuels in many workplaces. The environmental benefits of solar energy are many, and here are some of the most valuable:
1. Reduced effects of global warming
The use of solar power as an energy source does not result in emissions which are not only harmful to the environment but contributes to the warming of the atmosphere as well. This is precisely why using solar panels for your home or your office is an excellent way to reduce contribution to global warming.
2. Cheaper production costs, better efficiency
When solar energy was first used as an alternative source of power, not everyone could afford the technology needed to convert solar energy into usable energy. While the sun's power is essentially free for everyone, the technology used in creating solar panels used to be too expensive for the average user. Today however, the availability of reasonably priced solar panels as well as solar hot water panels have made it more convenient for most households to have access to at least one.
3. Helps control pollution
Due to the fact that no harmful gases are released into the environment and into the Earth's atmosphere by harnessing the power of the sun and converting them into electricity, the use of solar panels helps limit the world's contribution to environmental pollution.
4. Lower maintenance and running costs
The costs involved in maintaining and using solar energy at home are significantly lower than using conventional fossil fuels for energy. Once these panels are installed, using solar energy is free of cost and maintenance-free as well. Some investment may be required in putting these panels in place; but once everything is in proper working order, there is no need to continually shell out an amount to be able to use the solar panels every single day. This already presents a significant amount of savings on your electricity bill.
The Wagan Solar Panel and Charger is a versatile solar panel that effectively converts daylight to electricity and may be used in powering 12v batteries for use at home or even for vehicles, boats, and caravans. And with its ability to charge even on cloudy days, getting your free source of renewable energy day in and day out is always a guarantee.
The Hardware City, an Online hardware store features a vast inventory of over 45,000 products at unbeatable prices. Check out their deal on the Wagan Solar Panel and Charger today!

DIY Solar Panels - 3 Secrets of Building Efficient Solar Panels & Lowering Cost (Plus a Bonus Tip!)

Building solar power systems for home use is no longer a task too far-fetched, with many professional guides available in the market nowadays. Everyone who put in substantial effort and time can build a solar panel that works - but that does not mean all the panels are built to work equally effectively.
What makes the difference, and how can you tweak your solar energy system for optimal performance? Here are a few secrets:
Secret #1: USE ANTI-REFLECTIVE GLASS
The materials you choose often decide the amount of sunlight your solar panels can receive. Some of the sunlight that hits the surface of the panels gets reflected. How effective your systems are depends on the amount of sunlight reaching the photovoltaic cells on your panels, so it is essential to make sure your system allows as much sunlight to penetrate through the glass as possible.
How much the sunlight gets reflected is largely determined by what kind of glass you use. Use anti-reflective glass for your solar panels to allow optimal sunlight penetration. Anti-reflective glass is more expensive than normal glass. If your budget does not allow you to do so, coating a layer of transparent anti-reflective material on the surface of your glass helps too.
This is proven to increase the energy output by as much as 50%!
Secret #2: OPTIMIZING THE ANGLE OF PANELS FOR MAXIMUM SUNLIGHT EXPOSURE
Most people install their solar panels on the rooftop or anyplace convenient for them, without considering the amount of sunlight that their panels are exposed to at that location. This is not good.
What you should do instead is to observe the best location for the maximum amount of sunlight. If your solar panel is not mounted on rooftop, and is mobile, you can move it around and take down the amount of energy it generates at different locations to find out the best spot for maximum sunlight exposure.
Secret #3: KEEP YOUR SOLAR PANELS CLEAN
This sounds very obvious, but it is often overlooked. In fact, the most common enemy for solar power systems are leaves and debris that gather on the glass surface of the solar panels. This is especially true for panels mounted on rooftop, considering how difficult it is to clean them.
Leaves and debris block sunlight from reaching the solar cells, and thus decreasing the efficiency of your solar power system. There are two things you should do to overcome this:
1. Schedule regular cleaning - clean your solar panels at least once a month. For panels mounted on rooftop, you might consider using professional tool like the "Mr. Long Arm 1008 Pro Curve Solar Panel Cleaning System Kit".
2. Tilt your solar panels - by angling your panels, you prevent leaves and some larger debris from gathering on the surface - they will slide to the bottom edge of the solar panels instead. In addition, you will allow rainwater or snow to 'wash' the glass surface as they flow pass it.
These are the secrets to improve the performance of your existing solar panels. But wait -- there is something else! You might want to spend a little more effort to further tweak your system to increase its performance, by...
BONUS TIP: FORMING A NEW PANEL WITH 'LOOSE' SOLAR CELLS
You can add a new panel to your existing at low cost, by forming it with 'loose' solar cells. If you search online, you can find many suppliers that would provide used solar cells that are still functional. Maybe they are not working at full efficiency (probably at only 70% only), but still they are a good deal considering the low cost.
With a little practice, you can join them together to form a new panel to add potential output to your system. It takes a little time, but it is sure worth it.
If you consider the above three tips (plus a bonus tip) and implement them, not only will you increase the power of your solar power system, but you will also lower the cost of building it.
An engineer by profession, through extensive personal research and exchanging information with the online community, Harvey Normad made himself an expert in DIY solar power system. Together with two other like-minded friends, Harvey set up a website on this topic. They are dedicated in posting their latest findings and insights on homemade solar energy system. Rich information, including steps to set up DIY solar panels, are shared. Visit the site to get more tips on DIY Solar Panels [http://www.mysolarpowerproject.net/bestHomeSolarEnergy.php?tid=art0207].