| Why Use Solar Energy? |
| Written by Walter Hull | |
| Tuesday, 17 August 2010 | |
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Chances are, you are already using solar energy in a variety of forms. It is the primary fuel source in the creation of food, fresh water, petroleum, and wood. The question we propose is "why use solar energy to power your homes"? Is it realistic for generating useful heat and electricity?
Chances are, you are already using solar energy in a variety of forms. It is the primary fuel source in the creation of food, fresh water, petroleum, and wood. The question we propose is "why use solar energy to power your homes"? Is it realistic for generating useful heat and electricity? The answer is that solar energy is reliable and free. From the early morning dawn to the late evening set, the Sun will shine each and every day. Solar energy may be the single most consistent thing there is on our planet. The other great benefit is that solar energy is cheap. The Sun does not send out monthly bills, and last we checked there are no taxes on solar energy. If there is a less expensive source of energy on this planet, then we would like to know. Yes, it is true that solar energy systems are not the most efficient. But you will be using the lowest costing and most reliable fuel source on the planet. No monthly charges, and no swings in the markets. And most important for some us, we are covered when there are power outages, emergencies, and large storms. Selecting the right solar energy system for your home can be challenging at the start. What are the best choices for your location? What should we consider when sizing the equipment? Is solar energy really right for me? Here are a few answers to guide the way. People who live in locations with a regular pattern of sun, absolutely you should use solar energy. You could be saving money and helping the environment all in one. For our fair weather friends in the North and on the coast, the decision is more involved. Solar energy, truthfully, many not be right for you. There just simply isn't enough solar radiation to put to good use. Do not give up hope, though, there is always hydro and always wood. The most simple and cost effective solar energy systems are designed for acquiring heat. They can be used for making hot water, storing thermal energy, among many other things. If your have cool Winters and lots of sun then you are a particularly good candidate for using passive solar heat. Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy refers to making electricity directly from the Sun. These special panels will take in radiation and produce steady DC electricity. Whether you could be making PV energy just depends on the circumstances of your situation. PV panels will pay themselves off if you are an efficient user of electricity. The actual time period of payback, however, depends on your exact circumstances and your region's local rate of electricity. Some calculation may have to be performed. They will also pay themselves off if developing a new property and avoiding the installation of electrical transmission cables routed to your home. Depending on the distance, these transmission cable costs can be significant. There is one more possibility with solar energy - emergency reserve capability. If you were ever involved in a natural disaster, then how great would it be to generate your own heat and electricity? Simply turn on your inverter system and ride it through. The truth is, mankind is making good progress with solar energy technology. By engaging in independent and gridless energy systems, we can save a little money, help improve our environment, and set a good example for our kids. It is not such a bad idea to simplify our existence. The Article Author: Walter Hull is a mechanical engineer with expertise in solar power power systems. For a limited time you can get his free report to solar power from your own yard. |
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