There has been a lot of buzz lately about solar film, also called flexible or foldable, solar panels. This is an emerging technology and could completely revolutionize renewable energy. Thin film solar most often uses CIGS (copper indium gallium (di)selenide) technology or amorphous silicon, which are much cheaper and easier to manufacture than the standard solar crystalline panels we're used to seeing. Let's break down the different advantages...more
With a new U.S. president and a new outlook on renewable energy, many people are looking at solar energy as an option for powering their home. Many people are attracted to the energy savings and good feelings of solar, also called photovoltaic or PV energy. In this article we will discuss the financial aspects of designing a system for your home. The Power Bill Before you determine what size system you want, you should take a look to see how much...more
Solar garden lights are both a fun and practical way to go green. They can be attractive accents to your yard or garden; indeed, they can beautify any place you could choose to put them, on your lawn, deck, patio, or in a garden path. These lights, also called photovoltaic or PV lights, are highly versatile, and can be installed anywhere, in a variety of styles - hanging lights, spotlights (for highlighting a piece of sculpture, a particular decoration, or just illuminating the address on your house), or even swimming pool lights. Great Looking and Practical Not only does PV lighting add a touch of elegance to your landscaping, it is also a way to increase safety and security. A well-lit yard can deter thieves; a well-illuminated walkway can prevent falls or other accidents, and be a help to guests coming to your home at night. Swimming pool lights will ensure that people, especially children, don't accidentally fall into the water. Save Green, Go Green Solar lighting is both cost-efficient and eco-friendly. With just a simple solar panel and a few LEDs, you can have a very low-maintenance and low-cost lighting system that draws free energy from the sun. The only maintenance cost...more
Is there a more cool and fun must-have pool accessory than a solar swimming pool cover?! There are so many practical reasons to have one, but beyond that, they are also fascinating pieces of environmental technology. It is cool to think of having a pool cover made of space-age type material covering your pool - sort of a futuristic feeling. Not...more
There are many practical reasons to use solar outdoor lighting, whether in your gardens, your lawn or walkway, your deck or patio. A few top reasons include the economical and environmental impacts. The fact that solar lights use sunlight for energy, which is free for gathering and storing, leads to both environmental and financial savings. Going...more
Its time to start thinking about barbecues, baseball, and spring time! And with that comes the desire to fire up the swimming pool. These days you can help warm your pool and help your wallet with solar pool covers. Lets talk about five cool things about these products: 1. They Extend the Swimming Season A pool cover that converts sunlight into heat can heat the water by as much as 10 degrees when exposed to full sun. These means that you could start swimming earlier in the year and stop swimming later in the year. These covers absorb the heat from the sun and keep the heat within the water from escaping. Just like insulation on your home, a cover like this is a must-have. 2. They Can Save you Money Using the sun's energy to help heat your pool can ultimately save money on your energy bill. Even if you don't want to extend the swimming season, or if you live in an area that is cloudy in the spring and summer, a sun cover can help. By trapping the sun's free rays, your heater won't have to use as much energy. Most people find that a sun cover pays for itself in just a couple seasons. 3. They Are Very Durable At first glance, a solar cover looks like a gigantic sheet of bubble wrap....more
Solar power systems come in all shapes and sizes. The most popular systems are generally grid-tied residential systems. You may also hear them called line-tied or utility connected systems. Basically this means that they are installed on homes that...more
Solar power is becoming more and more an acceptable and preferred renewable energy source. Developers are finding many uses for the power of the sun, and lighting may in fact be the quickest growing solar industry. With the push toward green living...more
Many do-it-yourself homeowners are trying to find ways to "go green". Energy efficiency and going green go hand in hand. If you've already made your home as energy-efficient as possible, the next logical step is to start generating electricity...more
Solar power systems are an investment both financially and environmentally. A PV system will save money on electricity and ensure a greener future. The one drawback with solar is that most system are fixed whereas the sun is continually changing...more
Solar tracking systems are used to continually orient photovoltaic panels towards the sun and can help maximize your investment in your PV system. They are beneficial as the sun's position in the sky will change gradually over the course of a day and...more
Many people are considering a solar-power kit or solar-panel system for their home. This is a wonderful way to save money, produce clean energy, and "go green". But before you do this you have to make sure your home is as energy-efficient as...more