energy saving Archive

Getting The Right Type Of Solar Panels

By
Ben Avenell
Published: January 9, 2011Posted in: GeneralTags: , , , , , , ,

A solar panel is, essentially, interconnected assemblies of solar cells packaged together. Solar panels are used as components in a larger system to generate and supply electricity to commercial and residential buildings. Single solar panels only produce small amounts of power, so most installations include many solar panels. Solar panels use light energy to generate electricity through the photovoltaic effect. All of the cells must be connected electrically to the system as well as each other and protected from damage from transport, installation, use and weather.

If you are looking for high quality and effective solar panels, monocrystalline silicon solar panels are the right choice. Monocrystalline silicon panels are made from a single sheet of silicon, with pieces of metal nailed to the edges to increase conductivity. The solar panels have a 14% to 18% return rate, the highest currently available. That being said, they are also the most expensive on the market. If you plan to use your solar panels long term, the investment is worth it.

The least solar panels on the market are polycrystalline silicon solar panels. These panels are priced as such because they are the cheap to produce. Despite the price, they still provide an excellent electricity return rate of 12% to 14%. These panels, made up of many individual PV cells with metal conducting materials nailed to the sides, are easy to upkeep. Rather than replacing an entire panel, cells can individually be replaced.

Another variety of solar panel are string ribbon silicon panels. They are very similar to polycrystalline silicon panels and have about the same electricity return rate of 12% to 14%. Instead of being made up of PV cells, string ribbon silicon panels are made up of strings of strips of silicon attached to metal bars instead of PV cells. Using silicon strips instead of PV cells makes the cost of producing string ribbon silicon panels slightly less than producing polycrystalline silicon solar panels.

The cheapest panel to produce is the amorphous silicon solar panel. It is a very simple construction – a piece of semi conductive metal with a thin layer of silicon film on top attached to metal pieces. It is not made with polycrystalline silicon and as such does not have a high electricity return rate, just 5% to 6%. These panels are inefficient and cost ineffective. However, if you are looking for quick and temporary solar panels, amorphous silicon panels would be the proper choice.

Find Out More : PV Solar Panel

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , , , , ,

Saving Energy is Easier With New Energy Saving Products

By
Sandi Feris
Published: December 28, 2010Posted in: GeneralTags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Now no one likes the idea of power that they are paying for simply going to waste in their home or business but the fact is that its pretty much unavoidable. Just the same what you may not realize is that there are areas in your home where power that you pay for is essentially leaking out. Areas where its being wasted for no good reason at all.

I’ll take your television set as a prime example because are you aware that it may be consuming a full 75% of the power it uses when it’s in fact turned off? You read that right because when you click the remote to turn it off, it remains in “standby mode”. It’s still gulping power, believe it or not!! So then what’s the solution?

So then how can you stop this needless waste? The answer is surprisingly cheap, and incredibly simple. They’re called standby savers and they function just like a normal TV remote with one difference and that is that standby savers shut off the power “at its source”. So the power is cut completely to the TV or home appliance, cutting off the waste.

The second item on the list of new energy saving wonder devices, is called the energy monitor, and how its functions is just too simple. What it does, is measure electricity usage at your power box and then transmit that information back inside your home to a small portable unit with a display screen on it. It simply allows you to see how much power you are using.

So then how do they save you money? Well would you believe the folks who buy and use these $75 devices report a savings of some 25% on average their first month? You see, once you are able to accurately track the amount, and value of your power usage, you can then account for it far more accurately. It’s just that simple.

Have you ever stopped to consider that you are paying to keep forty gallons of water piping hot 365 days a year with your standard water heater. Just think how much energy that takes up but the fact is that you do need hot water and there is just no getting around that fact. Even so is there some way that you can ease this constant financial burden?

You need to buy and use a water heater blanket and not a cheap one either. Buy a nice thick one and if that isn’t enough then buy two, and really wrap the thing up nice, and cozy. Or; better yet, you may want to look into installing a state of the art “tankless” water heater that heats the water as it’s being used.

Energy saving light bulbs have been available for decades now and it’s certainly no secret that they they pay for themselves in savings. So then why are so many people still not using them? For one thing, most folks simply fail to realize how many light bulbs they have in their homes, and secondly they also don’t realize how cheap they are to buy now.

Learn more about home energy saving tips. Stop by Sandi Feris’s site where you can find out all about tankless water heater and what it can do for you.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Installing Solar Panels – Information & Advice

By
Mark Walters
Published: December 15, 2010Posted in: GeneralTags: , , , , , , ,

In this age of climate change, there’s a growing drive for energy efficiency and alternative power solutions. A great way for homeowners to do their bit for the environment (and even save some money in the long run) is by installing solar panels on their home. If you’re thinking about doing this, you’ll need to make sure you have the tools for the job, including: mounts, the panels, a conduit, tape measure, laser sight, drill, stud finder, bolts and rails. Check your specific panels in case you need any extras.

Before you begin installation, you need to carry out an energy audit on your house so you know how many solar panels the roof of your property will be able to take and how much you will save by using them. The Department of Energy will be able to give you advice on how to do this. You also need to make sure the panels are in prime position for catching the sunlight: don’t install them in the shade or they won’t work properly. Cut away any low branches.

Next, determine what kind of mounts you’ll need based on the type of panels you’ll be using and where they’ll be positioned. After this, use a stud finder to locate your house’s rafters, as these will support the solar panels once they’re installed. Use a laser sight to mark exactly where the mounts will be positioned above the rafters, then use a pilot bit to drill holes for the mounts without damaging the rafters. Then secure the mounts to the roof, using lag bolts to do so.

Your next job is to use bolts and attach the rails to the mounts. Then it’s time to individually install the solar panels on the rails, carefully securing them in place before moving onto the next one. The final job is to attach a conduit, running it from the converter in your house and then connecting it to the solar panels. Secure it properly so you don’t have to worry about it moving or being damaged in bad whether. Lastly, check to see your new panels work properly.

As you can see, it’s relatively straightforward to install solar panels on your home, but if you’re doing it yourself, you should always get an expert to check before and after to make sure they meet all necessary regulations and are secure. You should also check with your local electricity provider before installing them to make them aware as some of them require their own technician to be present at the installation or might let you sell power back to them. Finally, always take care when working on the roof.

More : Solar Install

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , , , , ,

Will Solar Energy Save You Money?

By
Mark Walters
Published: December 10, 2010Posted in: GeneralTags: , , , , , , , , ,

Several factors have created a good deal of curiosity about the implementation of solar energy sources in lieu of the traditional fossil fuels currently used for the generation of electricity. Solar energy has yet to replace fossil fuels as the primary source of energy in homes and businesses, and uncertainties about its cost are one of the major concerns keeping it from gaining a foothold. Just how cost effective is it to switch to solar energy?

The initial cost of a solar energy system installation tends to scare some people off. As with any investment, however, the long-term impact needs to be studied. Various tax credits and other incentives will affect the cost of installing a solar energy system, but one could expect to receive a bill for around $2,500 to $82,000. That seems like a pretty big window, but this is based on systems that can adequately power anything from a home to an office building. Compare those figures to the average $60,000 over 20 years that fossil fuels would cost and you get an idea of solar energy’s cost effectiveness to your needs. Because the sun’s rays are renewable, the setup costs are all that are incurred, aside from maintenance down the road.

At the moment, many may not find it feasible to fully eliminate the use of fossil fuels, but even using solar energy to augment a power system helps. There are some places on Earth that don’t receive many sunny days or direct sunlight, but dwellings in these regions will still find smaller electric bills if their building has solar panels. A hybrid system may not rely solely on solar energy, but it is still significantly cheaper than using electricity generated by fossil fuels alone.

The cost of the most prominent feature of a solar system, the solar panels, has come down quite a bit lately. Many people did not like the price tag attached to them at one time, but they are more affordable now. You can expect to pay $9.50 per watt to $11.00 per watt depending on what they are crafted from. Flat plate collectors that are responsible for heating 40 to 80 gallons of water per day are usually priced at $2,000 to $4,000.

In terms of home improvement projects, solar energy systems are comparable in price. The amount of energy used in the long run combined with the initial setup cost will determine the cost effectiveness of solar energy. It is an investment for the future.

Find Out More : Solar Panel Cost

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

How To Run Your Family Magnetic Generator This Afternoon

By
Brent Rodriguez
Published: August 14, 2010Posted in: Green EnergyTags: , , , , , , , , ,

Everyone is facing the constant increase in electricity prices. The power producing companies consider it as their right due to higher fuel prices.

Income level is still the same and we have to pay extra electricity bill every month. This trend of rising electricity bills has worst influence on our lives. Because the amount we pay every month is out of our budget.

The cheaper energy resources are cheaper in production. But they cannot be installed in our homes. Only the government has an ability to utilize them. In this situation, one may think about generating your own electricity because necessity is the mother of invention.

If this is the case, then we will tell you in next few lines about how a magnetic electricity home generator works? How is it helpful in reducing your monthly electricity bill?

Magnetic electric generators have a lot of fame all around the world recently. People are worried about the increasing cost of electricity.

A magnetic generator is the best alternative energy resource. This can be easily used in your homes. A magnetic home home electricity generator uses its powerful magnets for generating cheap electricity.

Magnets have a very special property of polarity due to which it exerts enormous force. This force in return helps to turn heavy shaft of turbine for generation of electricity.

They have constraints of space, maintenance, initial investment. and other installation expenses. Where as the small home build your own generator are free from such issues.

Here a question arises that how a magnetic generator works to provide cheap electricity. Let’s look at its working in detail and see how it really does provide cheaper electricity

Everyone is familiar with the magnets and knows exactly what they are. We have examined the magnetic force they contain.

In similar fashion, the magnetic generator utilizes the repulsive forces of magnets. These magnets are assembled in a wheel spin like shape in order to create turbine and power production.

We have also learned the law of perpetual motion that is applied here as the turbine moves forever under its own thrust. This magnetic electricity generator can save you from the clutches of the exhorbitant electricity companies.

Once you use it you will enjoy its benefits throughout your life time and it will save you from paying the high electricity bills as well.

In other words, once you get the magnetic generator, you will certainly enjoy its benefits. Most importantly, special attention has been paid in designing it as environment friendly. It has very low sound that is why it does not contribute to noise pollution.

http://www.Build-Your-Own-Generator.com

This powerful generator system neither relies This is the process of manipulating magnetic energy motion into electricity. The magnetic power home generator costs Build Your Own Generator

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

Save Money With Solar Energy

By
James Walke
Published: July 14, 2010Posted in: GeneralTags: , , , ,

Do you want to know more about energy saving solar panels and how you can use them to power your house? Many green companies have developed solar panels and are trying to make them as cheaply available as possible to the general public. Typical homeowners have turned their attention to looking for the best ways to save electricity.

1. A realistic look at Using Solar Powered Energy Systems Today

For some people like me, we have discovered how to generate our own electric power at home by building DIY solar energy systems. The truth is that it is possible for anyone to build their own solar panels at home today. It’s a great and easily accessible solution to save money and conserve the environment at the same time. It is believed that renewable energy systems like solar panels and windmills will become widely used around the world later on.

2. Building Solar Panels and Wind Mills to Power your House?

Nowadays there are many step by step construction guides available for download on the web. They are created by energy enthusiasts who have discovered how to run their houses with windmills and solar power. These guides are becoming extremely popular because of the fact that they can help the homeowner save up to 90% of his / her electric bills. For some larger houses, this can amount to $10,000 in savings every decade.

3. My own Experience after Building Renewable Power Systems

Many people are very thirstily viewing the actual improvements in this free energy market. I know I have managed to save lots of money with my solar panels and by avoiding the expensive electricity that the power companies are providing us with.

4. What are Another Ways of Generating Renewable Energy?

Other techniques include wave energy and biomass, but there have so far been no cheap way to build systems to harness their power.

Thinking about using money saving solar panels?, then visit this site to find this great resource .

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , ,

Solar Energy & To Provide The Needed Power

By
Larry Wood
Published: May 21, 2010Posted in: GeneralTags: , , , ,

The world is currently suffering from power and fuel crisis. Fossil fuels are incessantly using up and and so energy bills are soaring higher and higher. Many homeowners and establishments are now complaining about their huge costs. But did you know that there is an answer to the crisis and it has long been available to man. Nonetheless, due to its inefficiency, it is not recognized as a viable remedy. Solar energy is free but the cost of making it is a bit costly. With the vast advancements in technology, there are now more affordable options for these who want to use solar energy to supply power in their homes and offices.

Today, you can locate a lot of manufacturers that market solar power kits. How effective are these power kits anyway? Many households are now making use of the kits because they are efficient and convenient in generating the needed power from sunlight.

Battery chargers that are powered by solar energy are now widely available. Now, you don’t need to rely fully on conventional electricity to power electrical devices. If you install the right size solar panel, you may be able to reduce your dependence on conventional energy sources. The power from the sun is free and you will simply need to invest on the kit for a good power system.

People usually think that without sunlight, power can’t be created. The power kits are not just designed to capture the sun’s power but also to store the power as well. During sunny weather, energy from the sun is transformed into electricity and these that are not consumed will be stored. The stored power can now be used at night or during unpleasant weather.

With portable chargers, you won’t be able to get enough power. You can just use them for recharging small electric devices and batter packs. Cellular phones can be charged using the portable solar power chargers. The power is very easily drained out and as a result it’s not a very efficient source of energy. Despite the shortcomings of these devices, it would help if you still have them around. Who knows a few years from now, researchers and scientists may be able to make a major breakthrough in solar power.

Since the power kits are cost-effective, a lot of people are now using them. A solar panel usually has one charger where you will plug the equipment. The solar chargers are very valuable and you can carry them even in your hiking trips. Just place them on your car’s dashboard where sunlight is accessible.

The portable chargers or solar panels can be mounted in the rooftop to get a lot of sunlight. The large panels are still expensive and not many people can afford to buy one. Nonetheless, governments can subsidize the investment to set up the power system. If you stay in a place where the government offers subsidies, grants, and loans for the use of solar power, you’re quite lucky. Make use of it and so that you can now use free power. Tax incentives are even offered in some places to encourage residents to go for solar power.

If you’re still not sure about the efficiency of solar power, you can start by using a power kit. You can get the kit for as low as $200 to $300. Try it now and expand the system later on.

Lastly, you got to check out the Energy Saving Method – Solar Power that save the earth and my bill too. I didn’t know that I can make my own solar panel that only costs me less than one thousand dollar.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , ,

What To Expect From Solar Power For Homes

By
Larry Wood
Published: May 20, 2010Posted in: GeneralTags: , , , ,

Years ago, solar power was used mostly for magnifying glasses and calculators. Now, it is already possible to use solar power for homes. The energy of the sun is widely available and scientists are improving solar power systems year after year. Electricity is a necessity and life will be quite hard without it. However, the fossil fuels are depleting and electricity is expensive. The use of fossil fuels also causes damage to the Earth, thereby causing global warming and other environmental problems.

Solar power for homes is a renewable and much better energy source. Many homeowners are going green these days because they want to save money and the environment. Despite the encouragement of the government and other organizations, only 1% of the total homeowners use solar power. If you’re in the US, why don’t you visit California? You can find many solar powered homes in California.

The energy of the sun can be used in different ways to create electricity. A very good example is the use of solar generators. The generator is powered with the use of mirrors that focus and reflect sunlight. When heat is created, the generator will be powered. Photovoltaic cells are also quite popular and these are available in solar panel DIY kits. The panels are usually mounted on rooftops. When sunlight hits the photovoltaic cells, electrical charge is created which in turn power homes and offices. You can purchase the kits from online stores or even in your local area. Just shop around for the best and highly effective panel kits; these kits already include guided instructions so that you can develop a homemade solar panel.

Ordinary homeowners still find solar power too expensive and that’s the main reason why many people still opt for conventional electricity. With the modern technology of today, scientists and researchers are looking for cost effective ways to offer solar power to the public. Did you know that you can also store the energy that comes from sunlight? This is true and so you can still use solar power even when there’s no sunlight. So whether it’s nighttime or it’s raining, you can use renewable and clean energy.

Solar cookers, thermal systems, and many others are excellent alternatives but you need to know how to use them effectively. The very first step that you need to take is to determine your monthly electrical consumption. You can do this by checking your electricity bills and get the average monthly usage. You also need to consider the weather or climate in your area. After determining your electric consumption, you can now decide on the appropriate inverter. A bigger inverter can accommodate expansion in the future. For people with limited resources or budget, you can start with the simplest projects like outdoor lights and garden features. Even if you use smaller solar panels, you can still cut down your electrical bills by 50%-80%.

Try to have realistic expectations when using solar power. You can’t give up conventional electricity completely but if you can use it together with solar power, you can save a lot of money in the long run. Make this one-time investment and enjoy lasting benefits in the coming months and years. Solar power for homes is an excellent investment and you too can enjoy a greener and clean lifestyle.

Lastly, you got to check out the Energy Saving method that save the earth and my bill too. I didn’t know that I can make my own solar panel that only costs me less than one thousand dollar.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , ,

The Cost Of Solar Energy Equipment

By
Larry Wood
Published: May 20, 2010Posted in: GeneralTags: , , , ,

Solar energy is free but the tools that will enable you to harness this free power aren’t.

If you’re planning to install a solar energy system right at your home and would like to know how much it would cost, you will find 3 things you need to think about:

Very first, the cost is dependent on how much energy your household demands. More power you require indicates a lot more solar panels and higher cost of installation. The good thing is, the technologies to harness the energy of the sun is relatively less expensive than it was a number of years ago.

Second, the government is offering a rebate to those who will change to alternative form of energy. That signifies, the government will shoulder a portion of the total cost of the system.

Third, you are able to get tax credits whenever you change to solar energy system. The amount of taxes rebate is dependent from state to state however the variety can go from $1000 to $2000.

All these have an effect on the general cost of your set up.

A photovoltaic system can cost roughly at $8000 to $10000 per 1kW system. This equates to $8 to $10 for every Watt. An typical American home with three bedrooms requires a minimum of 1.5kW to as much as 3kW. Thus, set up can cost from $14000 to $30000, before rebates and tax credits.

Federal government rebate varies from state to state. As a reference, an typical California home that demands one.5kW system could possibly get as much as $4200 rebate (1.5kW= 1500 watts x $2.80 per watt = $4200).

A home that demands 3kW system could possibly get as much as $8400 (3kW= 3000 watts x $2.80 for every watt = $8400).

Before, tax credit goes as much as 30% but it is lowered to 7.5% of system cost right after rebate.

And so an average household with 1.5kW system can get $735 ($14000 – $4200 x 7.5% = $735) well worth of tax credit while the 3kW system can get $1620 ($30000 – $8400 x 7.5% = $1620) well worth of tax credit.

Example A: 1.5kW system

Cost of solar electrical system: $14000 Less rebate: $4200 Less tax credit: $735

Cost of the system after rebate and tax credit: $9065

Instance B: 3kW system

Cost of pv electrical system: $30000 Less rebate: $8400 Less tax credit: $1620

Cost of the system after rebate and tax credit: $19980

Once again, they are rough estimates just to give you an idea of the cost of setting up solar energy system. They don’t represent actual figures.

Top ideas:

Energy independent home has higher resale value and is more preferred by home buyers. As a result, if you are preparing to market your home in a number of years, installing solar energy system does not just provide substantial saving on electric bill, it also is really a good home improvement choice.

If you want to finance the cost of your solar energy installation, include it in your mortgage.

If you want to reduce your electrical power load, change to energy efficient appliances. Purchase electric appliances with Energy STAR seal.

Low energy requirement means lower installation cost.

Residents of areas with greater electrical power rate can benefit most on solar energy system.

If you can’t afford the solar system, you can install solar hot water system that costs roughly from $2000 to $4000.

Solar energy is best for houses that are located far from the current energy lines.

Lastly, you got to check out the Energy Saving Method – Solar Power that save the earth and my bill too. I didn’t know that I can make my own solar panel that only costs me less than one thousand dollar.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , ,

Solar Power For Camping Trips

By
Larry Wood
Published: May 19, 2010Posted in: GeneralTags: , , , ,

Perhaps you’ve already noticed solar power systems. People frequently believe that solar power is very costly but that was years ago. Today, you can already find more affordable alternatives so that you can appreciate the free power from the sun. Many individuals like to go camping and if you’re one of them, you might as well carry a solar power system with you.

But are the systems reliable, portable enough, useful, and readily available?

RV camping can be a lot more fun if you have a solar power system with you. Nevertheless, some campers simply discover the complete system as unnecessary. The camping spaces are generally completely hooked up which means you won’t require the system unless there’s power failure. The trips are usually carefully planned and you will need to reserve for the hook-up. You may also go on an RV hiking without having the hookup. You can explore quiet and remote locations for a few days. In this case, the solar power system is a must and it is practical to have them around. Before you go hiking, you have to figure out your electrical needs. The hiking schedule should also be appropriately chosen to make sure that there is going to be lots of sunshine. The batteries can be charged using the system. Once you determine the load, you can now estimate the size of the system. Purchase the needed materials and start the installation of batteries, solar panels, and inverters. They are needed to create the required energy.

These days, there are many solar power systems which are suitable to RVs. Shop around and you can discover one that will suit your spending budget and needs. If you are planning to provide electrical devices, you have to calculate their energy needs as a result that you won’t use up all of the solar energy. Attempt to limit the amount of electrical devices you bring; besides, you’re going hiking to explore nature therefore you are able to accomplish away with the convenience of these devices.

Even if you’re camping without having RVs, you can nevertheless make use of the solar power system. You can already discover lightweight and portable units that generate solar power. You will find flexible panels that can be carried to campsites and you’ll just spread them on the ground wherever there’s direct sunlight. The generated energy is enough to light a small bulb along with a heater. Unique backpacks collect sun’s energy and convert them into electrical power which could be used to recharge your iPod, camera, and cellular phone.

Solar power is no longer limited to homes, offices, and other bog establishments. Now, it is already possible to carry solar power systems anywhere you go. Camping will be more fun if you bring a solar power system with you. Forget about traditional generators that consume fuel. You are able to get free electrical power from the systems which are sold in the marketplace. In the US, solar power is already recognized and many households are now using them.

Next time you plan to go camping, make sure that you simply bring a dependable solar power system. Plan your outing carefully and make sure that you pick the correct date and day as well. If it’s sunny, you can produce a lot more power. Bring limited electric devices and provide just the essentials. Solar power is clean and renewable as a result you can stay out camping for as long as you like without worrying about energy usage.

Lastly, you got to check out the Energy Saving Method – Solar Power that save the earth and my bill too. I didn’t know that I can make my own solar panel that only costs me less than one thousand dollar.

 Mail this post

Technorati Tags: , , , ,

« Older Entries