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Energy From The Sun - It's Free
Switch To Solar Energy NOW!
Escape from the Dependence on the Energy Companies, Save Money, Protect the Environment and Save the Planet for Following Generations. Reduce YOUR Impact on Global Warming!
Solar Energy
Solar energy, radiant light and heat from the Sun, has been harnessed by humans since ancient times using a range of ever-evolving technologies. Solar radiation, along with secondary solar-powered resources such as wind and wave power, hydroelectricity and biomass, account for most of the available renewable energy on Earth. Only a minuscule fraction of the available solar energy is used.
Solar powered electrical generation relies on heat engines and photovoltaics. Solar energy's uses are limited only by human ingenuity. A partial list of solar applications includes space heating and cooling through solar architecture, potable water via distillation and disinfection, daylighting, solar hot water, solar cooking, and high temperature process heat for industrial purposes.
Solar technologies are broadly characterized as either passive solar or active solar depending on the way they capture, convert and distribute solar energy. Active solar techniques include the use of photovoltaic panels and solar thermal collectors to harness the energy. Passive solar techniques include orienting a building to the Sun, selecting materials with favorable thermal mass or light dispersing properties, and designing spaces that naturally circulate air.
The Sun
The sun has produced energy for billions of years. Solar energy is the sun's rays (solar radiation) that reach the earth. Solar energy is free, and its supplies are unlimited. By using solar energy no air pollution is produced, no water contaminated.
USA and Energy
- Although the USA accounts for only 5% of the world's population, it consumes 26% of the world's energy. And the average American will use 15 times more energy than a person from a developing country.
- Whilst most other nations solar energy policies are created at national level, the USA's are normally created at state level.
- Over 20,000 households in the United States now utilize solar photovoltaic energy.
- Well over 1 million home solar power kits for heating water have been installed in the United States. Over 80% of these have been to regular households.
- To help more Americans benefit from home solar power kits, the U.S. Energy Policy Act implemented a whopping 30% tax credit for households who install these systems.
- The biggest market in the US is undeniably California with over 80% of residential solar energy grid connected installations taking place there.
- New Jersey has emerged as the next forward thinking State with the installation of solar energy high on the agenda.
Save Money With Solar Energy!
Save Money With Solar Energy
Informative Sites On Solar Energy
- EERE: Solar Energy Technologies Program Home Page
- The Solar Energy Technologies program focuses on developing cost-effective solar-energy technologies that have the greatest potential to benefit our nation and the world.
- Department of Energy - Solar
- The Department of Energy's solar program educates the public about the value of solar as a secure, reliable, and clean energy choice.
- NREL: Solar Research Home Page
- NREL's Solar Energy Technologies Program performs research in two major solar energy technologies: Photovoltaic Research and Solar Thermal Research.
- Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency : ENERGY STAR
- Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency
- The Home Energy Saver
- The first web based diy energy audit tool
HOW TO Switch To Solar Energy
There are Two Options: 1. Either Hire a Solar Panel Installation Company or 2. DO IT YOURSELF!
Option 1: Hiring a Solar Panel Installation Company
Ten Tips for Choosing a Solar Panel Installation Company
1. Location - One of the first aspects to look for in a solar panel installation company is its installation area. If you select an installer without looking at installation area, you may be disappointed when you find they do not install in your area. Make a preliminary list of local installers by looking in the phone book and by searching online for solar panel installers.
2. Certification - Make sure that the installers you are reviewing are NABCEP certified. This national organization provides certification for installation of photovoltaic, solar thermal and small wind turbine systems. Also ensure that the installer includes a licensed master electrician to oversee the connection of your system to the electrical grid.
3. Subcontracting - A quality installer will not subcontract any of the installation tasks. Make sure that the installer will perform all of the installation with their own personnel.
4. Responsiveness - While researching installers, keep in mind how each installer responds to your inquiries. An installer who does not have time to answer questions about their systems may not be responsive during the installation process, or after the installation is complete.
5. Experience - How long has the installer been in business and how many systems similar to yours have they installed? Ask the installer how long their employees have been working with the company.
6. Reputation - A good installer will be able to provide you with references for work they have successfully completed. Also, check with the Better Business Bureau to see if anyone has filed any complaints against the installer.
7. Brands - Each installer has relationships with different solar panel brands. Some installers may exclusively use one brand of panels, while others may stock an assortment of panel brands and configurations. Become familiar with the brands by reviewing literature on each brand's web site.
8. Warranty - An installer should stand by the work they perform, and provide a warranty of at least 5 to 10 years. Take time to understand the terms of the warranty, and what parts and/or service are included.
9. Rebates - Many utilities and states offer rebates for installing solar panels on your home, and the installer that you select should help you with the paperwork for the rebates. These rebates can be significant, covering half of the installation cost or more for your solar panel system. Check first with your local utility to learn what offers are currently available, then check to see if your city or state has additional offers. The rebate process can be tricky and take time, so choose an installer that is willing to do the legwork for you.
10. Price and Payment Terms - Price can be a factor in your decision, but it should never be your primary decision factor. In many cases, you get what you pay for. However, different companies will have different contracts with suppliers and different overhead rates. Keep your budget in mind, but don't immediately reach for the lowest bid without reviewing the other aspects of the company.
Option 2: Install and Make Solar Panels Yourself!
Why pay $1000's for solar power when you can build your own professional system for less then $200!
Why pay $3000'+ for solar power when you can build your own professional system for less then $200!
At Last! A complete step-by-step guide to make solar power at home!
Michael's complete step-by-step fully illustrated manual will have you generating your own electricity for less then $200!
Earth4Energy is going to teach you everything you need to know
about producing your own electricity by using solar power. With their complete step-by-step setup fully illustrated manual you will be able to create your own professional solar power generator with easy to find parts that you can get from your local hardware store. You probably have most the parts laying around already!
Build your own solar power generator - Complete setup instructions with easy to follow illustrations! (It doesn't get any more step-by-step then this!)
Earth4Energy has created a complete step-by-step manual so that you can setup your own renewable energy system in your backyard for less then $200! Their illustrations and simple directions will literally hold your hand every step of the way and their
testimonials prove just that!
Systems like this usually cost thousands but with their simple DIY manual you can make your own solar power system for a
fraction of the price.
Why Should You Build a Solar Power Generator at Home Yourself?
- It's far too expensive to buy a pre made solar panels!
- You will save hundreds of dollars every time you get your power bill!
- This is great for our environment and your children will thank you for it.
- When you can make renewable power for less then $200, why wouldn't you!
- You will be able to spend your savings on more important things.
- Knowing that you are doing your part to conserve our planet feels great!
- Earth4Energy offer our complete, easy to follow instructions. This makes building your solar panel and installing it a fun at home project.
Residential Solar Panel Building and Installation DIY Manual
Residential Solar Panels Reader Feedback
DIY_Solar_Panels_Guru wrote...
Very informative! Great lens. I especially liked the graph. I think DIY Solar is the way to go. I can't wait until this becomes a fad..and every household will have solar panels.
Posted June 20, 2009
Chris79 wrote...
Excellent lens Mobijo! Have 5*'s on me!! Here's My Own Bit Of Info
Posted May 18, 2009
Chris79 wrote...
Excellent lens Mobijo! Have 5*'s on me!! Here's My Own Bit Of Info
Posted May 18, 2009
Gilbey33 wrote...
An excellent idea - RePower America estimates that the US could be getting 39 percent of its energy from wind and solar by 2020. That's big.
Posted April 14, 2009
Go-Green wrote...
I think making your own solar panels is the only way to. It just cost so much less, plus its fun to do.
Posted March 21, 2009
