Corrado Vinci asked:


To truly understand the benefits of green solar energy, you must first understand how solar energy is harnessed. There are two types of green solar energy-thermal and light. Thermal energy is considered passive solar. This type of green solar energy is harnessed through the design and materials used to construct a building. By integrating south facing windows and materials that retain heat, like brick and stone, you can lower your energy needs and build an energy efficient structure. The thermal energy produced by green solar energy is also used to heat water for solar hot water systems. The rays of the sun also produce light and radiation that can be captured by solar panels to create electricity.

The most popular use of green solar energy is for saving money. Although green solar energy systems can come with a large initial investment, they generally pay for themselves in a few years by providing either supplemental electricity or all of the electricity to your home or business. Building your own solar panels, participating in government refunds and net metering, in which you sell unused electricity back to the power company, can reduce the cost of implementing a green solar energy system. In addition, green solar energy systems require little to no maintenance after installation, as most have no moving parts.

The most important benefit of utilizing green solar energy is completely environmental. With polar ice caps dwindling away and climate changes creating tragic storms world wide, it is increasingly obvious that steps must be taken to decrease global warming and our dependence on fossil fuels. Green solar energy provides a clean energy alternative as it creates little pollution and does not contribute to global warming.

Solar energy panels have become more affordable in recent years making it a viable alternative energy option for savvy home owners looking for savings on their monthly utility bills and the environmentally conscious who also enjoy the financial advantage, but focus more on the benefits solar energy panels have on global warming and independence from fossil fuels.

If you are a beginner to the solar electric world, then you may be wondering what exactly solar energy panels are? It is really simple and yet fascinatingly complicated. Solar energy panels are also known as photovoltaic panels; photovoltaic meaning electricity from the sun. Solar energy panels work by collecting protons from the sun, which displace neutrons, and create a flow of electrons or electricity. An inverter converts the power generated by the solar energy panels from an AC current to a DC current making it usable in homes as a direct electricity supply.

You can use solar energy panels to heat your pool, workshop tools, greenhouse lights and fans or depending on you personal electric usage, your entire home or business. Most solar energy panels are designed to last 30-40 years and require little to no maintenance. Over the life-span of solar energy panels, the energy savings realized by the owner is enough to justify the initial cost of the system and prices are dropping more and more as a larger number of consumers express interest and make the change to solar energy panels or other renewable resources.

Solar energy panels for small applications can be purchased at your local hardware stores. These small versions are ideal for outdoor lighting, small water pumps and other outdoor tools. If you are purchasing a home size or business size system of solar energy panels it would be best to seek out a local retailer of solar energy panels or a green energy retailer in your area. There is also plenty of information available online about different solar energy panel providers.

Chris Woolfrey asked:


Aren’t laptops brilliant? Comparatively equal in power to desktops, and portable, too. Take them away for weeks on end, and have access to all the same programs and applications. Its freedom personified.

Unless you forget your charger.

For – as much as you can run around with a laptop – the things still need to run on power. In the past, this would mean costly electricity bills and products that consumed high levels of energy.

But Uni-Solar are looking to change that with their ‘Portable Solar Electric Light Panels’.

The chargers come in several models. At the cheapest end of the range is the ‘UNI-PAC 10′, which offers dual voltage charging for 12 and 24V. It can be folded down to a size of 254mm in length and 139mm in width, with a depth of 51 mm.

The ‘UNI-PAC 15′ and the ‘UNI-PAC 34′ both offer 12V power systems, but can be compressed to smaller sizes. The final folded sizes for the ‘UNI-PAC 34′ are still to be confirmed, but the ‘UNI-PAC 15′ – whilst at the same width as the ‘UNI-PAC 10′ – has a folded length of 236mm. It has a larger depth of 78mm.

Each model, then, can be folded into the size of a book, making it a convenient and efficient eco-friendly product.

They were originally designed to meet military requirements, and to be used in the field, so a hardy piece of equipment is all but guaranteed. As their website details:

“Solar modules for remote applications must be tough, lightweight and easy to transport. UNI-SOLAR UNI-PACs are designed for the challenge of the field. They provide power even with bullet holes or in partial shade. The UNI-PAC can be dropped, stepped on, packed and re-deployed, and will continue to operate.”

It is unlikely that anyone buying the UNI-PAC for commercial use will suffer bullet damage, but it still nice to know, and certainly gives a slightly surreal piece of mind; portable equipment that hardy isn’t going to break if you drop it out of your suitcase or down the stairs.

Indeed, the UNI-PAC officials know that there are other markets out there:

“Field-proven as dependable and easy to use for military units, trekkers, climbers and professional photographers depend on the UNI-PAC for field communications, emergency power and battery maintenance.”

Of course, there is nothing to say that it can’t also provide adequate cover for essays, spreadsheets, surfing the internet, or on-line gaming. And with the UNI-PAC 10 weighting just 2.1lbs, and the UNI-PAC 15 weighing 3.25lbs, the ability to do just those things comfortably and easily within an environmental framework is easier than it ever was.

Even if there was a freak malfunction – having withstood an attack from masked gunmen as you threw your charger down the stairs at the airport playing rugby – then the company grants five year warranty.

Yet more piece of mind.

For the environmentally minded, then, the Uni-Solar Portable Solar Electric Light Panels are a good alternative to traditional laptop chargers. And versatile as they are, they can be used for other appliances too.

Perhaps best of all, though, you can tell you friends that you own a piece of military equipment.

POW!

Anna Hart asked:


Solar power systems for camping are increasing in availability, but what about practicality? Can solar power systems for camping be put to use readily? Are they portable enough? Are they durable enough?

Solar power practicality for camping must address those questions and more. Are solar power systems for camping cost effective? Do they produce enough energy for normal needs?

RV Camping

Solar power systems for camping can readily be used in RV camping. But are they practical?

Many people spend most of their RV camping time in RV camping spaces with full hook-ups. They plan trips according to where the next RV camp is, and reserve a full hook-up space for the end of each day. For them, solar power practicality is questionable. It makes a good back-up system, if there is a power outage at a campground. On the whole, however, it is an unnecessary expense – just another toy.

Others enjoy the freedom of being able to camp without hook-ups. They want to get off the beaten track – be pioneers. They want the opportunity to be in a remote, quiet place for a few days. They may want to go off road, or stop beside a quiet stream, even though it is in the middle of nowhere. They don’t want to rush to make it to the next full hook-up campground.

Solar power practicality for camping is real for the second group of campers. Solar power serves a practical use for them. It breaks the leash of energy needs and lets them wander as they please.

Operating an RV’s electrical system with a solar power system is simple. Charging its batteries with solar power is also simple. You need to plan your system, of course. You need to know how much energy you want. Then you need to purchase and install solar panels, batteries, and inverters that will produce that amount of energy for you.

Many Internet websites will guide you through the necessary steps of determining how much solar power you need. They will explain which components will provide that amount of energy. Solar power systems for camping in recreational vehicles are increasingly available in a range of sizes, and you are sure to find one to fit your needs. Most are easy to use.

Solar power systems for camping may make you think twice about appliances you take for granted in RV camping. For example, suppose you have a coffee maker that requires 15 minutes to brew coffee, and then keeps the coffee warm on a warming plate. This will consume a lot of your solar power. You may want to replace that coffee maker with one that will brew in 10 minutes and shut itself off. Pour your coffee into a thermos and it will remain hot without using more energy.

Non-RV Camping

Solar power systems for camping are also practical for non-RV camping. The same two groups of people are to be found. One group likes to make camp in a KOA campground, with electrical power close at hand. The other group likes to hike into the back country with lightweight backpacks, and camp wherever darkness overtakes them.

Solar power practicality can easily be seen in the array of lightweight, portable units hitting the market. Solar power can be generated by the backpack in which gear is carried. Flexible solar panels can be rolled up and carried to the campsite, where they can be stretched on the ground to generate additional energy.

Solar power systems for camping are small and portable, but can generate enough energy to run a small heater or light bulb. Solar collected by a backpack while hiking can recharge a cell phone, camera, or iPod. Small solar power units will run appliances made for use in a vehicle. The coffee maker that will plug into your cigarette lighter can be run by a flexible solar power panel.

Solar power practicality for camping is sure to increase, and products for this use will multiply. Those who appreciate the environment enough to want to be far out into it will demand clean energy, i.e. solar power.

Chris Woolfrey asked:


Ricoh Company Ltd., of Tyoko, has announced plans for a billboard to be powered by wind and solar power.

The billboard, which will stand on 7th Avenue, 42nd Street, is expected to be operational in December of this year. It will be powered by 45 solar panels and 4 wind turbines, and Ricoh Company Ltd. expect the change to reduce carbon emissions in the area by 18 tons each year.

The sign’s predecessors can be found in San Francisco – the first of its type in the U.S – plus two in Canada, and two in South Africa.

In 2006, Johannesburg was home to the first solar powered billboard, developed by Nedbank. It supplies power to a nearby school, and displayed the phrase ‘This Isn’t a Billboard. It’s a Power Plant’.

A second followed a year later, when Nedbank erected a new billboard in Cape Town in December 2007. It currently provides power for a local youth centre.

It was in January of this year that Pacific Gas and Electric Company installed the billboard in San Francisco. It can be found at 1000 Brannon Street, and generates a maximum of 3.4KW of power, through 20 solar panels. It was developed as part of the company’s ‘We Can Do This’ campaign, which centres on the company’s commitment to the environment.

Unlike its American and South African counterparts, the two Canadian solar powered boards are not connected to the public power grids. But they represent the same cause.

One, developed by the finance company Vancity, commissioned the sign as a symbol of their commitment to tan active environmental policy. The company claims to want to develop a carbon neutral policy, and used the billboard as a promotion of that fact.

With billboards like these springing up in some of the world’s major cities, it marks a new partnership between cosmopolitan tradition and sustainability initiatives; where before sustainable energy was perhaps viewed as a rural luxury, it is now being pioneered as having a legitimate place in the city.

Now that companies such as Ricoh Company Ltd., Vancity and Nedbank are ‘going green’, corporations are becoming more and more aware of their environmental responsibilities.

Whilst solar powered billboards are more symbolic than practical – powering only limited areas – they can be tied to the theme of a growing environmental consciousness. With major companies investing in such installations in major cities, it shows that corporations are looking to develop an environmentally ethical image.

Indeed, many companies are bucking the trend. Waitrose – owned by the John Lewis Partnership – trialled a rapeseed oil fuel for their lorries in 2007, and most of the major supermarket chains are now encouraging the precedence of reusable bags.

It is hard to tell whether these commitments are out of genuine environmental concern or out of concern for pubic image and profits, but it marks a step, nonetheless; the more the general public demands an environmentally motivated business sector, the more the business sector will feel the pressure to concede to these demands.

With a rise in political concern for the environment, perhaps also coming out of public demand, businesses could feel the strain of legislature, too.

Brennan Howe asked:


Many Americans have decided to become more energy independent, and want to play a part in avoiding a very foreseeable energy crisis. They’ve decided to go solar. Creating a solar powered home is an endeavor that requires an initial investment, but the costs are being lowered everyday. Solar power provides long term benefits. Not just for the home owner, but the environment too.

Now that solar power is more efficient, you can reduce or even eliminate your electric bill, increase your home’s value and contribute to a cleaner environment, all at the same time. It’s a great time to join the move to renewable energy resources, and the perfect time to take advantage of the generous government and local utility financial incentives that can cut thousands of dollars off the price. And now that solar power is becoming even more main stream, it is growing in accessibility. Manufacturers of solar powered products have realized the potential for a solar age, and are creating new options for those who are considering a solar powered lifestyle. If you are ready to step into the solar age, you are probably wondering how and where to begin. Below is a list of ways to make your home a solar one.

Solar Attic Fans- Solar attic fans are a great example of a simple way to make your home more energy efficient without spending a lot of money. The need for air conditioning is reduced by venting hot air out of your attic. Installing a solar attic fan may also increase the life of your roof materials by keeping them at a lower temperature which also reduces moisture buildup in your attic. This prevents mold and rot in your home, and can also reduce allergens and pollution.

Solar Heating- Solar heating systems are composed of solar thermal collectors, a fluid system to move the heat to its point of usage, and a reservoir for heat storage. The systems may be used to heat domestic hot water, swimming pool water, or for space heating. If you live in the southern half of the United States or in an equally sunny area you could potentially save between 50% and 80% on your water heating by implementing a solar hot water heater. The initial cost is hefty, but depending on how you use it, the system may pay for itself in as little as five years. The return is greater when you factor in rebates and incentives offered by states and local governments.

Solar Pumps- Depending on where you live, especially in remote areas, the cost of traditional water piping may be exorbitant. Unless you install a solar water pump. A solar power panel collects solar energy and powers a battery which can keep a consistent and plentiful water supply.

Solar Paneling-The most obvious way to break in to the solar age is to install solar panel cells on your roof. Solar cells, also known as PV cells, or Photovoltaics, come in many sizes, colors, and performance characteristics, made to fit a variety of homes and lifestyles. Another important factor to consider is that when PV panels are used in conjunction with energy efficient appliances, not as many panels may be needed to power your home! Large scale home improvement stores, as well as smaller, independent energy groups, offer installation. But if you are a savvy do-it-yourselfer, you may decide to undertake the project on your own!

But don’t bust out the screwdriver just yet. Whether you do it yourself, or hire someone to do it for you, there are a couple of technicalities to be seen to before solarizing your home. Such as building permits. In order to legally install renewable energy sources in your home, you must contact your city or county building permit agency to obtain permission. You will be able to learn about requirements specific to your neighborhood. Don’t forget about property and sales taxes. Depending on what state you live in, you may or may not be exempt from these when it comes to the purchase of your renewable energy system.

Although it is not difficult to keep up your solar systems, frequency of replacement should be considered. Solar thermal systems need valves replaced every 3-5 years and storage tanks replaced every 10 years. Luckily, solar PV systems typically do not require maintenance, other than a yearly cleaning of the solar panels. PV panel life is typically 25 years.