Solar Power: Promise for The Future of Your Home

Many have heard of solar power, and it's legendary promise of replacing all of our energy needs in the future. Well, the hype is not far off of the truth. Solar power is simply the conversion of sunlight into electricity that can be used to power appliances. Solar power is generated in two different ways, CPS and PV.

CSP (Concentrated Solar Power) systems focus a large amount of sunlight into a small beam using mirrors and lenses. The concentrated light is then converted to heat which will then drive a type of heat engine (usually steam related) that is connected to a power generator.

In short, CPS turns concentrated sunlight into heat, which is then converted in electricity. CPS is an extremely fast growing source of energy. New advances in the technology have made the construction of CPS stations much cheaper and the technology has the potential to be competitive with fossil fuels within a few years.

Greenpeace International, the European Solar Thermal Electricity Association, and International Energy Agency's SolarPACES group released a study that predicts that concentrated solar power could account for 25% of the world's energy needs by 2050. Spain is currently the leader in solar power investment, but other countries will soon be scrambling to catch up, especially Mexico, the United States (which can boast one of the world's sunniest regions) and various countries in Africa but specifically Nigeria.

The second form of solar power generation is called photovoltaics and it converts solar radiation into direct current electricity using semiconductors. This is the type of solar power that comes to mind when most think of it. It uses solar panels that can be mounted on ground arrays or can be put on the sides of buildings or other surfaces that will be exposed to the sun. Photovoltaics is the third most important renewable energy source after hyrdo and wind as more than 100 countries currently use solar PV.

Because of the demand for renewable energy the price of solar cells has declined steadily since their first models. The reduced price means that PV is becoming competitive with conventional electricity sources in many geographic regions. Greenpeace Solar Generation predict that PV could produce 9% of the world's energy by 2030. By 2050, it can produce over 20% of the world's electricity. However, many agencies have continually underestimated the growth rate of renewables, so their estimates may be low for both PV and CPS technologies.

Most solar power arrays are plugged into the electric grid of inhabited areas. There is a much smaller market for independent solar generators that serve residences that are off the grid. Houses that are on the grid can contact their local energy providers in order to discover the costs of solar power, and can look into switching over if they wish to. More and more people are choosing that option as the demand for renewable energy grows. It is unarguable that solar power, and other forms of renewable energy, will play a larger and larger role in our energy supply schemes.

Solar Power In The Home

Solar power is the most renewable and reliable form of alternative energy, and its method of production is extremely simple. The most common form of solar power generator, a PV array that converts solar radiation into direct current electricity, only requires the installation of solar panels.

The switch to solar energy is likely to be one of the smoothest energy transitions in history. This is because solar power generators consist of solar panels that can be mounted on any surface that will see sunlight. Furthermore, the array can be wired to connect to the local energy grid, allowing homeowners to sell the energy they do not use back to the energy company. Since solar arrays only generate energy during the day, the home generally still draws power from the grid at night. However, daytime hours are peak hours, and a solar array helps save homeowners a significant amount of money without needing to make drastic changes to their home.

Small solar arrays are fairly easy to install and simple, step-by-step instructions can usually guide a homeowner through set-up. More complicated arrays that feed into the grid and wiring of the home require professional installation and can cost a homeowner approximately $25,000 in upfront costs. In order to encourage the switch to solar power, many national governments offer tax incentives. In the US, the federal government offers a tax credit of approximately $2,000, though it changes from year to year. Local state governments offer their own rebates that can cover up to 1/3rd of the cost of solar installation.

Lastly, it is calculated that a solar array will pay for itself in energy savings in approximately 10 years when current energy costs and common usage rates are taken into consideration. However, if the price of energy continues to go up, solar arrays will end up paying for themselves much sooner.

Solar power can also be used in more specific ways in the home. One of the largest drains on energy is a home's water heater, which maintains 40-50 gallons of hot water at all times. A small change to an on-demand water heater that only heats up water when it is requested, saves a home a lot of money. Further, small solar arrays can be installed in order to feed directly into water heaters, and can drastically reduces the price of monthly energy bills. Solar arrays can also be used to power ovens and refrigerators, two other major uses of household energy.

Homeowners can also choose to lease solar arrays from installers for little or no upfront cost, therefore reaping the monthly savings right away and using them to pay for the solar array. With so many incentives and opportunities to save, there is really no reason for a homeowner not to install solar power.

The Making of Solar Panels

The solar panel is the most basic element of a solar power system. It primarily functions to gather sunlight during certain periods of the day to power different devices and structures. Depending on the size, solar panels can power anything from RVs to huge plants. It is also important that you understand how the panels work and where you can apply these so that you can get the most benefits. Here are some more details and info about the material.

What are Solar Panels?

Solar energy starts with the sun. Solar panels are also known as photovoltaics and are primarily used to convert light from the sun. These are made of energy particles called photons that are changed into electricity to power various electrical loads. Light from the sun is considered as a renewable energy resource that gives clean energy. Solar panels can be used for different applications like remote power systems for cabins, remote sensing, telecommunications equipment and to produce electricity for commercial and residential panel systems.

The History

The development of the solar energy began more than a century ago. During the early days, solar power was used mainly to produce steam for drive machinery. Henri Becquerel discovered the photovoltaic effect that allowed the conversion of solar electric energy. Becquerel's discovery triggered the invention of the first true solar cell by Charles Fritts in 1893, which was created by coating selenium sheets with a thin gold layer. The solar panel was then created afterwards.

Russel Ohl is an American inventor who used to work for Bell Laboratories. He patented the first silicon solar cell in the world in 1941. The first solar panel was produced by the same company in 1954 because of Ohl's creation. The new solar panels were used first in space satellites. During the 1970s, more people saw the use of solar panels through the newly designed calculators that can run easily under light.

At present solar panels and full solar panel systems are used to power different applications and structures. Aside from calculators, solar panels are now used to give power to homes, commercial buildings and other huge structures.

Letting the Solar Panels Work

Solar panels can gather clean renewable energy in sunlight form that will be converted into electricity. The average home has adequate roof area to let solar panels gather enough sun to be converted into DC current or AC current. Solar panel arrays can be sized to meet big requirements. The AC current can power loads in the house and other commercial buildings. It is important to consider the part of the house, as well as the right angle of the sun so that the solar panels can gather the most light over more hours of the day for optimum results.

You can choose to build your own solar panels or just order a pre-made one online. There are also a number of stores that offer solar panels, depending on the use you need. You can hire some experts to help you determine the right part of the house or structure where you need it installed. You should also talk to other solar panel owners to help you maximize the benefits.

All About Solar Panels

Solar panels are now widely available all over the globe. You will find several homes, commercial buildings and vehicles relying mainly on solar panels to generate the electricity they need. Solar panels can also be made independently by the user. You can save more in costs by building your own system. You can also invest in a ready-made design for added ease and convenience. Here are some more tips and tricks on how to begin.

The Benefits

If you choose to use solar panels, you can produce electricity that can power various applications. Off-grid living means residing in a location where the main electric utility grid does not service your home or office. There are remote cabins and homes that can benefit from solar power systems. It is no longer needed to pay huge bills to install electric utility posts and cabling from the nearest grid access main point. A solar electric system is less expensive and can give you power for up to 30 years if you maintain it well.

Solar power is also a renewable source of energy, which means that it is very clean. Today, it is more important to invest in devices that do not damage the environment and atmosphere. Solar panels do not have any moving parts and will need only minimal maintenance. As soon as the system has paid for its initial installation costs, you can get the benefits for several decades more for free.

Buying Solar Panels

There are plenty of places where you can buy the best solar panel models. You can choose between brands such as Sharp, BP Solar and General Electric. You should visit some of the manufacturer web sites to determine the process and the ways how their solar panels are built. You should also read about the background of the company and what their objectives are in making these pieces. You should read more about installation to check if you want to install or build the panels yourself or hire a professional.

There are several web sites, online forums and internet stores where you can learn more about the available models and how these can best suit your location. Some panels are intended for individuals living in places that has minimal sun, while other designs are specifically made to gather the most sun over the shortest span of time.

About Price

Learn how to compare between types to know how much you need to pay for. The prices of the solar panels will vary depending on the brand and the size. There are also other factors to consider such as maintenance and if the package includes free installation. Some companies will ask for fees to install the panels, while other buyers may opt to install these themselves to save more. Talk to other people who have already tried certain makes and brands and let them give you the pros and cons of each. Ask for referrals and recommendations to ensure that you are only investing in the best places.

How to Make Your Own Solar Panels

As the cost of professional fees is quickly rising nowadays, people are becoming more reliant on their own skills and effort in building things. There are now a lot of DIY or do it yourself solar panel kits available at your local hardware store or on the internet. You can order and have the materials delivered right to your doorstep in just a few days. You can even finish the entire project in just a matter of hours. Here are some things to learn first.

Seeking Resources

You need to look for the right resources first. You can actually build your own solar cell panel for only $100 or less by finding the best and most affordable sources. You can start looking for green companies. These companies offer some of the best prices and high quality materials to encourage people to choose environmentally friendly options in acquiring energy. You can also look for private sellers and online companies on the internet. Make sure you read the company background and objectives so that you can fully understand the processes and types.

The prices of resources will differ, depending on your setup, the materials you want and the brand. You should get to know your source more. Determine the method of payment, the method of shipment and when you expect the goods to arrive. Usually, it should take no more than 7 to 10 days for your stocks to arrive. Other states may only expect 3 days to get their package.

Starting Out

First, cut a couple of rectangular copper sheets. Each should be about the size of a stove burner. Wash a piece of the copper throughout, then use the sandpaper to take off any presence of corrosion. Lay the copper sheet on the burner. Turn the burner on to maximum heat. Watch the copper very well. You will observe that the colors change as the copper starts to oxidize, and gently transform to black. Let the copper stay on the burner for about 40 minutes or up to the time that a thick coat of oxidized black material turns up.

Turn the heat off on the burner, then let the copper cool in the air. This process should take only around 20 to 30 minutes. Slowly scrub the copper using your hands under running water to eliminate majority of the easily removed parts of the oxidized coating. Do not attempt to take off all the coating or scrub vigorously. The objective is to remove the regions that can easily be taken off. Do not damage the copper that stays below the oxidized layer. This is needed to build the solar panel.

More Steps

Cut the top part of the plastic bottle off, forming a makeshift bucket. Take the second copper piece, then bend it to fit the bottle shape. Slide the second copper piece into place along the inner side of the bottle. Do the same with the heated piece of copper. The two pieces should not touch each other. Link an alligator-clip lead to every copper.

Connect the lead from the second copper piece to the positive terminal of the micro-ammeter. Stir salt until fully dissolved using hot water. Pour the salt water into the bottle. Check the micro-ammeter. This will be your battery. Position the apparatus under the sun and see how the charge rises as the solar cell panel changes the energy of the sun into electricity.

The Risks and Advantages of Solar Energy

When people talk about solar energy, all they really talk about is how much this alternative form of energy source is a great source for power and electricity, and how this source of energy can help you save a lot on your utility bills. However, there are certain things and aspects about solar energy that should be discussed with people, especially since solar energy is now being integrated in constructing modern day houses and structures, and are even now becoming a viable source for power and electricity.

One of those things that should be discussed involves the risk of using solar energy. This article will try to present to you some facts and information about the risks involved in using solar energy. Before we can discuss more about the different risks, let us first discuss what solar energy is, and how it is produced in order to understand its different risks.

Known Dangers of Solar Energy

For those of you who don’t know, solar energy is actually produced from a process that occurs within the sun known as nuclear fusion. Nuclear fusion is actually the very same process that is involved in nuclear power plants, and actually employs the same basic nuclear physics laws that applies to atomic bombs. This is definitely a major cause for alarm for most people.

Aside from that, add the fact that the main energy source for solar energy is actually hydrogen, which is a form of gas that is highly explosive, and that is definitely something that you should be aware of. Hydrogen is a tremendously destructive component that can be found in H-bombs, and also produces dangerous fallout for those exposed.

These known dangers of solar energy may sound very threatening, but these are not the only things that you should be worried about, for solar energy could also have other not so well-known dangers that could pose a risk to your health.

Solar Energy Radiation

Right now, we are all actually being subjected to the sun’s background radiation, which could be dangerous if exposure to it exceeded a certain level. There is really nothing we can do to prevent being exposed to such background radiation other than to simply avoid sun exposure.

However, if your home uses solar energy to power up your house, you might find it more difficult to do. Since solar energy technology harnesses the power of the sun by concentrating the sunlight, and using its energy to light up your home’s light bulb, you could very well be irradiating your entire home, something which could cause skin cancer later on.

Blindness from Solar Energy

Another danger that could stem from using solar energy to power up your different gadgets and electronics at home is that it could cause blindness if you were to expose your eyes to too much radiation from them, just like staring directly at the sun for too long.

Solar Energy Fire Hazards

Since most solar collectors basically concentrate the sunlight that they are able to collect from the sun, it can be a fire hazard, especially since fire can very easily start if there were very high concentrations and levels of solar energy. These high and dangerous levels of solar concentrations could easily ignite combustible materials, making it a possible hire hazard on any home.

The Advantages of Solar Energy

Thousands of people are beginning to invest in solar powered devices and panels because of its several known benefits. You can start helping the environment and maximize the potential of your energy source by using solar power instead. You have to know more about the available types and the features of each. You should know your source better so that you can get the best deals. Here are some more tips and tricks on how to begin.

It's a Renewable Resource

Solar energy is considered a renewable resource. This means that reliability can be acquired day by day. You can expect to continue getting power and energy from the sun for several decades without having to recharge batteries or keep purchasing new parts. Even though the energy may not always be readily available during cloudy days or at night, the availability is still there everyday. The solar energy supply will be available as long as the sun is existing.

On the other side, oil is not considered as a renewable source of energy. Oil can take millions of years to form. At present, oil reserves are being depleted at a very fast rate compared to its time of development. People will have to prepare for the consequences of running out of this resource.

Helping the Environment

Solar energy is non-polluting. This means that you can save the ecosystem and keep greenhouse gases from forming. You can expect a cooler and cleaner surrounding by investing in solar powered devices. Compared to oil, oil burning will release carbon dioxide plus other greenhouse gases into the air. The process of getting oil can also lead to damaged or compromised ecosystems because of spills and dredging.

Cheap and Easy

People do not have to keep maintaining solar cells, because a panel can last about 30 years or more if well kept. Solar cells can also be made from very cheap materials. You can even construct the panels yourself. You can purchase ready-to-build solar cell panels over the internet. The materials will be delivered right to your doorstep in just a matter of days.

Even though solar panels and the relative accessories like solar lights are expensive to purchase at the beginning, the total sum you save in the years to come will be bigger, thereby boosting your savings instead of investing in a non-renewable energy source. The energy provided by the sun is readily available and free. Oil prices continue to increase every week. The materials and tools needed to acquire oil are also becoming expensive.

Easy Installation

You can expect to have your own solar panels in just a matter of hours or days. Allocate one day to construct and install your solar cell panels. There are so many books and online resources where you can learn more about solar energy and how to harness the power yielded to the maximum. Talk to other experts and find out about other benefits by adjusting your setup. The good thing about solar energy today is that more and more people are becoming experts in the field, thereby widening your options in getting information.