Solar Power
Solar Insect Zappers
With the start of spring comes the rise of annoying pests. Now, you can rid yourself of the flying variety (we’re looking at you, mosquitoes!) in an eco-friendly way with the Solar Insect Zappers. You may have been hesitant to plug in one of these bug zappers before due to their power consumption, but since this set of four harnesses the sun’s energy, feel free to leave them running all night long. Outfitted with a UV bulb, the Solar Insect Zappers turn on automatically when the sun goes down and gets rid of 100 different types of flying pests. And don’t worry, these bugs won’t feel a thing – they are eliminated instantly thanks to a 300-volt electric charge, so you can enjoy the spring and summer nights without getting bitten. Running 8 hours on a full charge, the Zappers only needs minimal sunlight to power itself, and can turn to accent lighting with the push of a button. Buy them at Hammacher Schlemmer for $99.95.
Via Coolest Gadgets.
Solar Motion Sensing Security Light
Scare away would-be thieves while impressing them with your energy conservation with the Solar Motion Sensing Security Light. With no hardwiring to set up, this motion sensor can be installed in minutes just about anywhere you need to spotlight security. Equipped with an infrared motion sensing element that extends 39 feet with a 180° field of view, it beams bright with a 10-watt halogen light. To power it up, just place the solar panel on your roof so it gets the full benefit of the sun, and plug it in with a 16-foot cord. Its rechargeable battery provides up to 300 30-second illuminations, once the solar panel has been exposed to sunlight for 15 hours. Pick one up for $79.95 at Hammacher Schlemmer.
via Gadget Grid.
Solar Powered Lights from Ikea - Indoor and Outdoor
Jumping on the Green bandwagon, Ikea has just released its new line of solar powered indoor and outdoor lights. Available in a range of colors and uses, these solar powered lights are as handy as they are adorable! With nine different products to choose from, Ikea’s lights feature replaceable and rechargeable batteries. And since they have LED lights, they use 70% less energy while lasting four times as long as regular blubs. If you’re thinking of putting them outside, you’ll be pleased by the fact that you won’t need any electric outlets or cumbersome buried wires to deal with – just place them along your path or deck for all-night lighting. Plus, with prices from $6.99 to $19.99, you can’t go wrong. Ikea.
via Inhabitat via Mocoloco
Solar Attic Fan - Solarstar by Solatube
Imagine harnessing the heat of the sun to cool your home – it’s possible with Solarstar’s Roof Mount Solar Attic Fan. Combining ventilation technology and environmentally friendly benefits, the solar powered attic fan is installed onto the highest point on your roof (either as a low profile, pitched or high profile, depending on where you live and how your house is designed) and is used to circulate air and ventilate your attic space, which in turn provides cool air to the rest of your home. Powered by a 10-watt solar panel, the fan also battles moisture that rises through the ceiling to the roof, further protecting your home from fungus, saturated insulation and plywood delamination. This system installs easily in about half an hour, can withstand any kind of weather condition and best of all, costs nothing to operate! Prices start at $300. Solatube.
Inflatable Solar Collector for Hot Water - SolarStore by IDC
Affordable and innovative SolarStore Inflatable Solar Collector by IDC (Industrial Design Consultancy) was made for the value-conscious environmentalist in mind. Made in the UK, the SolarStore uses solar heat to warm domestic water – in fact, it can heat up to three full tanks of water, reaching temperatures close to 80°C! Selling for under £100 (about $150 US), the inflatable solar collector is not only cheaper than conventional solar hot water systems on the market (compare at $2,000-$3,000), but can also be used in developing countries as well as on camping trips. Using the process of heat transfer, sunlight passes through the SolarStore’s clear outer layer, and travels down to a black inner layer that holds the water. To keep water hot, it uses the surrounding air between the clear and black layers as insulation. The SolarStore is set to hit the market in the spring of 2009. Industrial Design Consultancy.
Clean, renewable electricity is within reach, thanks to BP Solar Home Solutions System. A lot of homeowners are scared away from using solar panels because the technology is complex, but BP Solar has made their Home Solutions System easy to install, use and maintain. Solar panels first transform sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity, and an inverter converts it to alternating current (AC) electricity that you can use in your home. One of the benefits of using the System is that if your home produces more electricity than it needs during the day, it will store the extra electricity in a utility grid, and you’ll actually see a credit on you electric bill! When the sun goes down at the end of the day or if it happens to be cloudy, the system draws on the extra electricity in the grid to power your home. This system can be mounted on both flat and tilted roofs, and works best on roofs that are unobstructed and not shaded during the sunniest hours of the day. Calculate how much it will cost to install BP Solar Home Solutions System by clicking here. BP Solar.
Built-in Solar Electric System - Residential Roof Integrated, by Kyocera
Designed to visually blend with your home’s architecture, Kyocera’s MyGen Meridian built-in solar electric system installs flat with your existing concrete roof tiles. This solar system becomes integrated into your roof - it actually replaces some of the tiles as shown below. Meridian can be installed on a conventional roof of any pitch and is compatible with several manufacturers’ flat roof tiles. Assembled from high efficiency d.Blue solar cells, the system uses photovoltaic modules to convert sunlight into electricity, and is quick and easy to install and maintain. First, the frames are installed independently of the modules, and then all electrical connections on the roof are made via multi-contact connectors. Finally, the installed modules are blended with the roof to create a seamless and environmentally friendly built-in solar electric system. Here's one example of how it was done in Elk Grove, California...
Grid-tie Photovoltaic Solar Power System by Kyocera - MyGen
The need to reduce power bills and a growing need for clean electricity are the forces behind Kyocera’s MyGen Grid-tie Photovoltaic Solar Power System. A value-added, environmentally sustainable solar electric system, MyGen comes in five different packages that use Kyocera KD180 modules in a variety of PV array configurations. Consisting of photovoltaic modules, a direct current to alternating current (DC-to-AC) power conversion device, DC wiring and protection, AC wiring and protection, lightning protection, component mounting and mechanical support, this interactive unit comes with everything you need to generate your own electricity. Another plus of this Kyocera solar system is that it is compatible with a wide variety of roof types and materials, and it can be sized to meet power requirements for maximum flexibility. Kyocera.
Flexible Solar Panels by PowerFilm - Revolutionary Solar Film Technology
Through the use of a proprietary process, PowerFilm is the first – and only – company that manufacturers and sells flexible solar panels - "monolithically-integrated solar panels on plastic using a true roll-to-roll manufacturing process”. Former 3M research physicists, Dr. Frank Jeffrey and Dr. Derrick Grimmer, founded the company in 1988 with a goal to develop and manufacture thin film panels in high volume and at low cost. The two scientists have a combined 65 years of experience in the semiconductor and solar energy research and development fields.
The benefits of this product are numerous. Roll-to-roll manufacturing decreases material handling costs, printed interconnects enable automated connection of individual cells, and the production of flexible solar panels requires as little as 1% of the amount of silicon used in rigid crystalline panels. In addition, the sunlight absorber layer is cadmium free (environmentally friendly), as well as a commercially viable, low cost technology. PowerFilm panels are 13 inches wide and can be up to 2,400 feet long.
Photos courtesy of PowerFilm
Retrofit An Existing Heating System With Solarsheat Sun-powered Panels
It’s now possible to retrofit an existing heating system by installing a Solarsheat heating solar panel package. The Solarsheat Furnace Retrofit consists of (a minimum of) four panels, a solar fan and a solar thermostat. When installed with additional R12 insulated duct, the system boosts – or replaces - an existing heating system with pre-heated air produced by the solar heating panels.
The retrofitted insulated ducts attach to the furnace’s cold air return. When the solar thermostat calls for action on a sunny day, solar and furnace fans activate and blow solar heated air through the existing duct work. The result: a substantial decrease in energy costs due to retrofitting an existing heating system with solar panels. Solarsheat is Energy Star and SRCC certified.
Photos courtesy of Your Solar Home, Inc.
Solar Installation Kits offered at AlternativeEnergy.com
AlernativeEnergy.com offers several solar installation kits, including the Quickmount 1.1kW grid-tied photovoltaic power system seen above. This is the lowest priced (and smallest) system with kits for shake, compost and tile roofs priced at $8,503. The kit includes 6 Evergreen solar panels, a 12-pack of QuickMount PV, a Kaco a Blue Planet 1501xi 1500W inverter and 2 UniRac Solarmount rail sets, as well as the other miscellaneous items required for an installation.
Solar System Leasing Program
Solar roof panels are an excellent option for reducing your carbon footprint and decreasing your dependence on power supplied by utility companies, while saving on monthly bills. However, the initial financial output required can create a roadblock for many homeowners. SolarCity has introduced a new solar system leasing program that may benefit those who wish to avoid a substantial upfront expenditure.
Residential Solar Panels from Sunpower - roof panels installation
Concerns with both increasing utility costs and a smaller carbon footprint are leading larger numbers of homeowners to investigate the benefits of installing solar panels on the roof. Sunpower offers sleek, black, high-efficiency residential solar panels that deliver superior results in an aesthetically pleasing fashion.
Although the initial financial output may be a bit daunting; calculating the economic return can help ease a case of sticker shock. Sunpower’s site provides a Solar Calculator feature to help potential clients analyze the cost of a residential roof installation, applicable tax credits and projected savings for their particular location.
Sunpower's success stories include a testimonial from a Saratoga, California homeowner with a 56-panel installation who saved 98% on his electric bill in first year, a Westport, Connecticut homeowner who saves 84% annually and a Los Gatos, California homeowner who enjoys a reduction of 83% per year.
Solar Power For Residential Home - How it Works
The decision on where to mount your solar power system is entirely up to you. There are little restrictions apart from ensuring your solar collector has unobstructed access to the Sun. Normally a southern facing solar cell will be able to generate 100 W. of power.
Proper angling of your solar panels is of course vital. One of the ways around this is to create a movable base for which you can rotate your solar panels.
Installing solar power is a great way to protect nature and save a few bucks on energy bills. Before you go right ahead and order a set of photovoltaic panels for your roof, it is important to learn about how these panels are mounted and installed to provide your home with electricity.
Home solar panels are typically installed on roofs. A simple shingle roof is very easy to fit with the solar panels, but a tile roof may be difficult. Always be sure to install the panels on the area of your roof that gets the most direct exposure to sunlight for the longest time period to ensure optimum performance. There are three types of mounts available: flush mounts, roof-ground (universal) mounts, and pole mounts.
Flush Mount:
Flush mounts are the cheapest and most simple choice when it comes to solar energy installation. They are typically used with small rooftop solar arrays, because they would not be able to support a larger system. Flush mounts are small metal brackets that attach to both sides of the panel, elevating it off the roof. It is essential to keep 2-4 inches of space between your roof and your solar panel to keep the panel from overheating, which will drastically reduce its productivity and lifespan. Flush mounts are not adjustable, so you cannot change the orientation of your array after mounting.
Roof-Ground Mount:
Roof-Ground mounts are typically used with large solar panel systems, or in more rural areas. They can be mounted either on the ground or on a rooftop. This type of mount tends to be bulkier because it consists of a grid-like framework that supports the panels. If you choose to mount the system on the ground, the mount can be adjusted to raise the array over plants and small animals. The tilt of the panels can also be adjusted using a roof-ground mount.
Pole Mount:
This system uses a pole to support the solar panel. There are 3 different types: top of pole mounts, side of pole mounts, and tracking pole mounts. Top of pole and side of pole mounts indicate where the panel is mounted with respect to the pole. A tracking pole mount is unique because they follow the motion of the sun throughout the day.
Each of these mounting systems caters to a different type of solar array and a different location. So before you choose which is right for you, consider the other factors, including your property, climate and budget.
Although DIY solar panel installation is possible, it can be very difficult if you are not familiar with electrical work. A professional team of installers can help you find and install the right solar energy system for your needs.
Solar Panels produce green clean energy from an abundant energy source that shines on us everyday. Solar Electric Systems also called photovoltaics or PV convert the sun’s radiant energy into electricity. Unlimited renewable energy that is guilt free and at no cost once our panels are paid for. Enjoy energy independence.
Sungevity has a free solar panel analysis for California residents.
Play a direct part in combating greenhouse gas emissions, global warming, coastal off shore drilling, and help reduce our dependence on foreign dirty fossil fuel. Help your community by supporting local solar businesses. Your energy source is acquired at a specific cost, while rates on power can and usually do rise every year.
Solar Electricity Components
Solar Panels are installed on your roof and collect the sun’s energy and convert it to DC power.
DC power is run from the solar panels into a power inverter mounted on the side of your house, that converts DC to AC, or power that you can use. The power inverter has an LCD display that shows how much power is being generated.
The power from your solar electric system is fed through a special electric power meter that your utility provides. This meter can spin backwards when you are generating more electricity than you use. Extra electricity is sent out the utility grid for others to use.
In 2008 the average residential Solar Electric System cost an expensive $5.40 per watt of capacity, while commercial ones cost $4.20. These figures translates to 25 to 46 cents per kilowatt hour of residential power or 17 to 29 cents for concentrating commercial solar plant. Compare the above numbers to roughly 7 to 10 cents for coal and natural gas and you can see a disconnect. The average US electricity price in 2009 was 11.5 cents, compared to 8.4 in 1995.
In the San Francisco Bay Area most PG&E customers have tiered energy pricing (E1 Residential Pricing plan) that starts at 12 cents, but jumps to 14, 29 cents, 40 cents and 40 cents as you use more power. An average home in PG&E’s territory ends up paying 29-40 cents/KWHr for more than half of their electricity usage. This makes solar much more justifiable.
Enough of the feel good rhetoric, how much $$ can one save? Everyone wants a zero power bill. A sample system run through a large local Solar firm’s website, Solar City’s Solar Calculator:
Assumptions: $300/month electric bill in San Francisco. 8% – A little shading, 22 degree roof pitch, South facing roof.
Save $2904 a year or $242 a month. New electric bill $60 month. 8.6 years to pay off system, then power after that is free! Most solar panels are warranted for 20 years, and some systems have been online or more than 30 years. The value of a solar electric system appreciates over time as power prices escalate.
Return on Investment: 16%
| Initial System Cost: | + | $ | 38,976 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Tax Credit: | – | $ | 10,787 |
| State Rebate: | – | $ | 3,020 |
| Final System Cost:* | = | $ | 25,169 |
Per Solar City: This is a post-tax Internal Rate of Return (IRR), which calculates all the money you will save over the next 30 years because you will be generating free electricity from the sun instead of paying the utility company. IRR also takes into account your initial investment, government rebates and credits, and the time value of money.
By switching to solar you’ll save the equivalent of…
- CO2 emitted by driving a car 174,070 miles
- CO2 absorbed by 76 trees
- 49,789 gallons of water used in electricity generation
Save $960 per year on power. Solar Lease monthly payment $162 plus new electric bill of $58 = $221 per month compared to $301 a month on your old bill. Save $29,601 over 15 years as utility rates increase.
We have owned a solar system for many years and have been advocates to our friends and family just as long. Solar power is not for everyone. In this article we cover important factors you need to consider when deciding whether a new solar energy system worth the plunge.
- Rent or Own Home – If you rent or plan to sell your home within the next couple years, Solar panels are not for you. A solar system’s payback time is typically on the order of ten years. They will increase the value of your property when you want to sell.
- Physical Location – If your home does not receive enough solar radiation because of tree shading, weather, or its geographic location, you are not a good candidate for solar panels. Different areas received differing amounts of solar radiation. Solar insolation in the San Francisco Bay Area averages 5.4 peak sun hours a day. National Renewable Energy Lab has a solar map of the US.
- Roof – Most solar panels rest on roofs. Your roof must be large enough and angled such that a Southern – Southwest sky exposure allows ample sunlight. The solar panels should be angled similar to your location’s latitude. The roof must also be in good shape and not leak. Fix the roof before considering solar panels. The structure of the roof must be able to hold the weight of solar panels. Some communities like Palo Alto have requirement specifying spacing around solar panels for fire suppression purposes.
- Roof Shading - How much of the roof is shaded by trees, equipment, or other obstacles? Clearly, you want to maximize solar panel direct sunlight access. We had to trim trees to maximize sun exposure for the afternoon. Partially shaded areas work better with certain brands of solar panels.
- Financial – Solar Panels are not cheap. If cannot afford a solar system costing tens of thousands of dollars or do not have good enough credit to qualify for a solar lease, consider solar energy when your finances have improved.
- Permits – Many municipalities require building permits before a solar system can be installed. Make sure you can satisfy any requirements, which may include neighbor or association approval. Permits are usually needed to qualify for rebates.
- Rebates – In order for solar power to be cost efficient, your system needs to qualify for Federal, State, and or local solar rebates. Incentives can cover up to 40% of a solar electric system. Verify this before proceeding. Rebates are reserved on a first come first served basis. DSIRE has a national incentive database. California Solar Initiative tracks California rebates. You solar installer will help with the rebate paperwork. The best solar incentives are in Arizona, California, Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Texas and Florida are coming online.
- Energy usage – Your energy consumption needs to be high enough to justify solar panels. If your bill is too low, you would never achieve solar panel payback. Use about $75 a month as a ballpark guide. Your local utility can give you annual usage information.
- Utility Company – Do they buy back excess power? Where does the excess power go? Do they support Net metering? How much they charge per kW? Are there special monthly charges for solar panel owners or net metering?
- Power Outages – Most Solar Electric Systems are Grid-Tied or connected to the power grid. The solar system inverters automatically turn off if a power outage occurs. Inverters generally restart 5 minutes after power is restored. Solar panels will not keep your power flowing unless you setup and expensive battery backup system.
Figure out the kWh that your home consumes in a month and in a year. Figure out the kWh that your home consumes in a month and in a year. The place wherever the home or establishment is situated is a primary consideration. You should select the right size of your solar panel system. 
A very good solution is solar power. Determine the kWh that your home consumes in a month and in a year. Figure out the kWh that your home consumes in a month and in a year. 
So start gathering information now and build your own home solar power system for more savings! Research is the initial step when planning to install a home solar system. Figure out the kWh that your home consumes in a month and in a 12 months.
