Solar Energy Around your Home
ByYou may be surprised to learn how solar energy extraction has been around for over 100 years, and during the industrial revolution, the sun was used to produce steam which would then drive turbines generating power.
The technology we use today does not rely on steam, but the charging of electrons contained within solar cells made of semi-conductive material. So, we can learn by this, that solar technology not at all in it’s infancy, as many people currently believe. We should have much more confidence in the energy we are able to harness from the sun, and use this on a much larger scale.
Everyday, more energy hits your average rooftop than the energy which comes into your home through wires. This shows you the huge capacity that solar energy has to offer.
Many people agree, and rightly so, that the best source of natural energy out there (the sun) is hugely underrated. Solar energy has the potential to provide a home with a free (or a significant boost to a) power supply all year round.
New technologies are making solar panels increasingly efficient regarding power output, durability, and their ability to harness much more solar energy on dull and cloudy days. This makes a solar panel a very good option for integration to any household.
An ever growing number of people concerned about our environment, and the future effects of global warming, have found great success in installing a solar panel and home wind turbine mix. This provides a more stable energy supply, as in the summer your solar panel can shine, and in the winter your small wind turbine will provide that extra piece of mind.
The only reason that should stop you, or put you off the idea of home energy production is the initial cost. Many people cannot afford the initial investment needed, but if you can, the future benefits regarding your extremely low electricity bills will be well worth the investment.
http://www.clean-energy-ideas.com/solar_panels.html
James Bratley
http://www.articlesbase.com/environment-articles/solar-energy-around-your-home-112133.html
3 Comments
March 8th, 2010 at 7:19 pm
Will tinting your home windows really cut your utility bill?
We are considering tinting our home windows with Scotch 3M NV-15 film. What we cannot find is any real feedback of energy savings. Can someone who has done this tell us if they noticed enough of a reduction in their energy bill to make this worthwhile?
We have researched and decided against solar screens (too hard to clean and they sag; some HOA’s ban them around here). Just interested in window tint please.
Thanks.
March 9th, 2010 at 12:21 am
Tinting them will keep it cooler in the summer, therefore less air-conditioning bills. But also in the winter, it keeps the sun out, so higher gas bills.
References :
March 9th, 2010 at 12:23 am
Yes, but I can’t quantify the savings. One source says single pane windows can account for about 17% of home heat losses.
You might explore electrochromic glazing on the Internet. This is glazing whose tint can be controlled by electrical current. Developed by Lawrence Livermore National Lab.
References :