Dec 16
Solar Power Can Reduce Your Utility Bills and Help Save The Environment
The marketing concept for solar generated energy makes the vast majority of advertising executives salivate.
First… the significance of solar energy use to the environment is undeniable. With fossil fuels like coal and oil set to run out within 25 to 30 years, the search for and application of renewable energy sources have taken on a new urgency.
Research and development is centered on renewable, naturally replenished energy sources. One of the most popular and widely discussed resources is solar power.
Solar power will never be able to meet all of the world’s energy needs. No single energy source will. However, Read the rest of this entry »
Nov 15
Do Solar Panels Work On Overcast Days?
Can solar panels collect solar energy on cloudy or even completely overcast days?
It’s easy to assume that a solar panel requires sunlight and/or its heat in order to function. In other words, if sunlight doesn’t hit the solar panels, they won’t work.
Actually, while solar panels flourish in bright sunlight, they also function well on days that are overcast or cold. Think about it for a minute. Read the rest of this entry »
Oct 09
How Reliable Is Solar Power?
Since solar power is now considered a practical alternative to fossil fuels, it’s reasonable to question its reliability. After all, sunlight is an intermittent energy source… most countries experience cloud cover for large portions of the year. There is also the issue that sunlight is only available for, at most, 12 hours a day. Could the world’s energy demands really be sustained from what appears an intermittent energy source?
The answer is probably no, which is why solar energy is only considered as only one of several alternative sources to produce energy. Even so, it’s still a reliable, practical source to help meet the world’s demands for energy. Read the rest of this entry »
Sep 25
Can Homeowners Afford Solar Power?
You’ve probably heard it all before… solar power is the solution to our world’s energy crisis. What’s more, solar panel installations will reduce utility bills. It’s no wonder more and more people are seeking alternatives.
Basically, the blurb is true. Solar power is good, and it is truly a way forward. Is your interest piqued? Are you beginning to wonder if you could genuinely save money and the environment by investing in solar panels?
Solar panels can be placed anywhere; the most effective place for the average household is on the roof, where exposure to sunlight is at its highest. And while you may feel the stories of lowered energy bills are a bit too good to be true, the simple fact is by switching to solar power you will save money. Yes, everyone. Read the rest of this entry »
Aug 23
How Does Solar Panel Technology work?
Here’s a really brief, easy-to-understand description of how solar panels make electricity from sunlight…
Solar panels are generally mounted on a flat surface, like the a roof. Solar panels are made of silicone, a semi-conducting substance which absorbs the sun’s rays. The ensuing photovoltaic effect converts the assimilated light into electricity by separating electrons from their atoms. The direct current electricity just created goes into an inverter where it is turned into 120 volt AC, the electricity required to power the home. This “free” electricity is then hooked up to the home utility panel.
The flow of this solar powered electricity is measured with a utility meter which rotates in reverse and Read the rest of this entry »
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