subject: How To Use Solar Energy [print this page] Every summer, Americans flock to beaches and parks to soak up the warmth of the sun's rays, basking in its brightness and feeling the heat of it on their skin, and in so doing, they are experiencing solar energy. What many don't realize, however, is that the very same solar energy that makes for bright afternoons outside also can be harnessed for greater energy efficiency in households. Below are four specific ways solar energy can reduce energy consumption: generating electricity, providing light, drying clothes and heating homes.
Generate Electricity:
In particular areas of the country with clear and unhindered sunlight, especially the southwestern United States, a small solar electric or photovoltaic (PV) system can be a savvy way to generate electricity. A PV system uses solar cells to turn direct or scattered sunlight into a small amount of usable electricity. Things to consider in choosing a PV system include knowing how much daylight you have access to throughout the year, how the costs of installing one compare with the potential energy savings, and researching local permits and regulations that may prevent installation.
Provide Light:
"Daylighting" is the official term for using windows and skylights to brighten your home. Relying on the sun's natural power to illuminate your home, daylighting reduces the need for artificial lighting and makes the most of the sun's rays. The type and placement of your windows can drastically improve your home's daylighting ability. Choose energy-efficient windows and place them in locations advantageous for your area's seasons. A great way to evaluate the current effectiveness of your windows would be through a professional home energy audit, where an energy efficiency consultant could provide suggestions for improvement.
Dry Clothes:
Because the clothes dryer makes up a large chunk of your home's energy consumption, finding a way to use it less is to your advantage. Consider the time-honored method of a clothesline; it's an excellent way to make the most of solar energy and reduce your home's energy costs.
Heat Homes:
Designing a solar heating system is only one way to use solar energy to heat your home. Windows, walls and floors can also all be designed to use solar energy to maximize heat in the winter and reduce it in the summer; this is called passive solar energy. One excellent way to evaluate your home's current efficiency in using passive or active solar energy is through a home energy audit from an energy conservation business. After analyzing your home, your home energy consultant will report where your home is losing energy and provide solutions for increasing efficiency. Using the sun's power to improve your home's efficiency not only creates a greener lifestyle but also saves you money in the long run.
