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Solar power Roof Tile - What it is and How it can be Utilized
What is meant by a solar power roof tile?
The rays of sun generate radiant energy. Using different types of machines, this radiant energy can be captured, stored and treated to form other types of usable energy, as our needs might be. Solar power refers to the procedure of generating mechanical power, electricity or chemical power from solar energy resources. Solar chimney, solar heater, photovoltaic (PV) cells and solar roof tiles are some of the devices that can treat and harness solar energy. Among these devices, solar power roof tile has various advantages, and hence is generally preferred over other forms of commonly seen roof tiles. Roof tiles that are designed so that they can tap and process solar energy to produce electrical power or heat up water are called solar roof tiles. An industrial designer from Australia is credited with the invention of these solar roof tiles.
Getting to know the functionality of solar power roof tile
The modern day city is facing a serious problem - an acute power shortage. Solar power roof tile comprises of such techniques can solve this problem. Polycarbonate chassis is used to make up the solar power roof tiles, and it also contains a vessel of water and quite a number of photovoltaic cells (i. e. solar power cells). These solar cells are able to capture around 72%-80% of the total available sunlight. This is then transformed into heat energy, which in turn, warms up the water in the vessel. The electric wires of the building as well as the hot water system need to be connected to these tiles. The domestic requirements of electricity can be easily met by harnessing the sunlight that remains (around 20% of the total).
A handy boost to power savings is also achieved, since the roof tiles generate electricity that are well in excess of what is actually required in a home. Not much power is required from non-solar origins, since the excess electric power that is generated during the day can be easily utilized at night. Adding to the convenience is the significant backup they provide on days when the sky remains covered with clouds. Let us now look at how the system works. An inverter is kept present, to which the photovoltaic cells are connected. This setup is then attached to the main power box of the house. An electricity grid is also used, and the power box is kept linked to this grid. Now, this electrical grid can store all available surplus electricity. This excess electrical power can even be sold to the grid and some money can be earned. This helps the user gradually get back part of their investment on the solar roof tiles. After some time, the effective cost for producing electricity can even become zero too! Hence, installing the tiles makes sense, since they not only help a home generate its own electricity, but also prescribes a way to earn by selling off excess amounts of power.
All forms of different roof tiles can be easily matched to the solar power roof tiles, such are the designs of the latter. An estimated amount of 1. 5 kilowatts of electrical power can be obtained if 200 solar power roof tiles are used. This electricity is enough for the needs of a home that has three to four bedrooms. In the current world, these tiles are in great demand, both for commercial as well as residential purposes. The commercial tiles can be installed easily and quickly, by following a simple procedure. They do not enter the building structure as such, and also have high wind resistance properties. Research show that these solar roofs can resist winds blowing at up to 120 miles per hour too. These solar power roof tiles can also be fitted in rather short spaces that might be available. Thus, wastage of excess power can be stopped, and the required amount of electricity can be produced by having the roof tiles at all places of the house that gets exposure. Other aspects of the solar tiles, like their cost figures, their efficiency and other likely side effects need to be paid due attention as well.
Gauging the utility of solar power roof tile
The solar power roof tiles have such structures that they can be easily matched with most types of different concrete tiles. Hence, the resultant streamlined appearance of the roof enhances the overall fashion and décor of any building. Solar roof tiles generally need to be installed only once during one's lifespan. After installation is complete, there are absolutely no operating costs of these solar tiles, and they are expected to last around a period of thirty years. Many of the companies also offer production warranties for a 25 year period in addition.
Adding significantly to the process of installation of the solar roof tiles is the fact that, these tiles do not have other portable components that have to be moved as well. Solar power roof tile is extremely eco-friendly as well, since they do not pollute the atmosphere in any way, and do not emit any harmful greenhouse gas. Once solar roof tiles are in place, users can save extra amounts of power that is generated, produce electricity using a free and renewable source of energy, and make the appearance of their houses visually pleasing as well. Economic benefits from these solar power tiles are also significant.
You should be installing solar power roof tile if you wish to cut down on your power bills. Home solar systems are also ideal for generating electricity in an environment-friendly way. What you should do first is to get a guide that would help you know the basic stages of installing the system, and the places that are best suited for it. Relevant security measures, as well as how the wiring should be done is also discussed in such a guide. You can also learn from where to get the components of the system at rather low prices, and the batteries totally free. Once such a guide has been consulted, you are ready to set up a solar power system at your home.
Solar power for Notebook and Laptop computers
The idea of solar power for remote computing is finally catching on. It is working for everyone from the cross-country cyclist and weekend camper, to regular working stiffs that have to rough it on the job.
Solar power is not just a possibility, but could be a necessity for those that go remote. Solar panels are used to collect solar energy for direct use or storage in batteries to power up later.
Here is how solar, or photovoltaic energy is realized from the "How Stuff Works" website. If you are not an electrical engineer or scientist of some sort, don't be surprised if this does make light bulbs go off in your head. You can always come back and do further research on the internet.
"The solar cells that you see on calculators and satellites are photovoltaic cells or modules (modules are simply a group of cells electrically connected and packaged in one frame). Photovoltaics, as the word implies (photo = light, voltaic = electricity), convert sunlight directly into electricity. Once used almost exclusively in space, photovoltaics are used more and more in less exotic ways. They could even power your house. How do these devices work?
Photovoltaic (PV) cells are made of special materials called semiconductors such as silicon, which is currently the most commonly used. Basically, when light strikes the cell, a certain portion of it is absorbed within the semiconductor material. This means that the energy of the absorbed light is transferred to the semiconductor. The energy knocks electrons loose, allowing them to flow freely. PV cells also all have one or more electric fields that act to force electrons freed by light absorption to flow in a certain direction. This flow of electrons is a current, and by placing metal contacts on the top and bottom of the PV cell, we can draw that current off to use externally. For example, the current can power a calculator. This current, together with the cell's voltage (which is a result of its built-in electric field or fields), defines the power (or wattage) that the solar cell can produce. "
To continue, we will discuss the smaller hand held devices for cell phones and PDAs, all the way to powerful self-contained and fully remote commercial solar systems. Here are several links that describe the use of solar power for mobile computers and other wireless devices from the Do-It-Yourself perspective.
It is amazing what is already available and out in the marketplace for solar power options. As energy costs and energy conservation continue to garner interest as mainstream issues, we should see the rapid development of solar integrated design features. Soon it may be a standard feature and part of everyday portable computers.
Let's hope so, because going green is good for everyone, not just an intriguing proposition for rugged notebook users and remote computing,
Hand held Solar Kits
Solar kits are designed to be self-contained. They combine solar cells, rechargeable batteries, and a wide selection of cables. These won't power a portable laptop yet unless it's a miser on energy, but they will keep you connected with a limitless power supply for your cell phones, Smart phones, PDAs, and smaller devices. As long as the sun is shining, or the batteries are charged up, you will have power.
Many purists will argue anything solar is not really "green", either because it will never be energy positive (will never generate more power than it took to manufacture), or because it has a battery, making it environmentally unfriendly by default.
Arguments aside, at issue for rugged and remote users is a reliable power source, and having some sense of being connected. So, solar charging devices can be considered either as "convenience efficient" or "emergency efficient". Don't take this as a challenge to engineer types that will want to get their slide rules out, just a notation that these solar kits are an honest attempt at the "plus" column for reducing the human carbon footprint. Wider adoption and acceptance of new technology usually results in greater efficiencies.
Two promising examples that have had good reviews are the reasonably affordable products from Solar Style Dot Com, and the pricier Solio Dot Com. Do a search on Youtube and you will find many videos of Solio in action. If it did not work, we would know it by now.
Portable Solar Power Docking Stations
The idea of using solar power in remote situations is nothing new. The question for us is how well, and how fast, a solar power station will power up your notebook or laptop. Other considerations are the size, weight, and portability. You will find many products in this category, but few online reviews that confirm that these products will actually perform as advertised. The best source I have found for honest reviews in this regard is TreeHugger.com.
There are very few winners in the category of a portable solar power docking station to efficiently run a laptop computer. One that does get good reviews on the subject is the "PowerDock System".
Do an online search for PowerDock System, and you will find many retailers and dealers at different price points. So be patient and shop around. Your Mobile Desk Dot Com is the best resource for a complete descriptions of the PowerDock product line. These include from the least expensive to the most expensive: PowerDock Lite, PowerDock Basic. PowerDock Executive, and PowerDock Elite.
Power Dock Systems are relatively expensive, and range in price form a few hundred dollars on up to $450. 00. The PowerDock is an attractive product design an weighs in from 5 to 13. 5 pounds.
Another potential winner is the Notepower Solar Laptop Charger from Sierra Solar Systems. You will see the Notepower Solar Charger pop up along with the PowerDock in a search engine query for these type of solar products. Plug in the SmartAdapter with extended 10 foot cord included, and start charging or topping off your computer battery as long as sunshine is available.
Once again, this is not a review recommendation, but the Notepower has had favorable comments by TreeHugger.com and other reliable sources, giving no pause to mention it here. The 3 lb. Notepower is not designed with a storage battery, but the 20-30 watts of power will charge and run most laptop computers, according to the specs.
You may not consider the Notepower as a true solar docking station, but it is an attractive portable solar package for a temporary power solution. Originally priced around $250. 00.
Commercial and Military Grade Solar power Systems
Some of the best remote solar power systems are designed to meet military standards. You could even say that anything designed for military use is pretty much guaranteed to perform. These systems will compliment anything in the fully rugged notebook computer category.
Energy Technologies, Inc. in Ohio, USA makes a wide assortment of military standard power equipment for field use. Things like field deployable inverters, converters, UPS, engine-generators, along with solar power stations with the trade name Tactical Solar Products.
The product features for these Tactical Solar Products include various combinations of charge controllers, power storage batteries, AC/DC power adapters, multiple DC outputs, and a large selection of folding solar panels. The specific product line is the Solar Suitcase I, Solar Suitcase II, Solar Suitcase III, Solar Suitcase IV, along with the folding SolarTacticalPanels.
Solar Suitcases I-IV can charge Lead Acid, Li-Ion, NiCad, NiMH & other types of rechargeable batteries. The nearly bullet proof folding solar collection panels are available from a 15 Watt to a hefty 330 Watt output panel set. This is "green power", but you are out of luck if you prefer a color other than the two camouflage patterns available.
You will have to call ETI for costs, as product pricing is not published on the ETI websites.
Computing Solar Power Wrap-up
We have looked at several of the many possibilities for solar power, and going "green" with remote computing. The possibilities are becoming more reliable and starting to make more economic sense. You can try to go solar and Do-It-Yourself, or for the less technically inclined there is a wide range of retail and commercial applications for sale. We have attempted to highlight a few of the proven DIY options, and find some of the readily available products, and systems from various online reviews.
Some of the solar power resource websites you might want to keep an eye on include: Altapower.com, RadioLabs.com, and CTSolar.com. There obviously are many more you will find now and in the future with your favorite search engine.
Solar power versus Generator - the choice
Many who live "off the grid" in isolated locations have traditionally relied on generators for electrical power. Others have installed generators for back-up, emergency electrical power. Neither thought there was a choice, but now there is a choice: solar power versus generator.
In this article, we look at the choice. Which is more economical; more convenient; more environmentally friendly? Should you make the change?
Solar power versus Generator - Cost
The cost of solar power versus generator is much less over the long term.
The initial cost of a solar power system will be greater than that of a generator system. This is often the reason people install a generator rather than choose solar power. One must look beyond the initial cost, however, to get the full comparison of solar power versus generator.
* Solar power, once installed, has little maintenance or further expense. There is no fuel to purchase, since the sun's energy fuels the system.
* Generators are not so. After installation, a generator will require regular servicing by a professional every 6 months. Generators require fuel - a cost that is constantly increasing. Moving generator parts must be replaced from time to time due to wear and tear.
Solar power versus Generator - Convenience
Convenience is another factor to consider when looking at solar power versus generator power. Solar power is much more convenient than generator power.
* Solar power may be less convenient to purchase and install, since it is not as widely available as generators. This is due to the currently small market for solar power. As the market increases, however, this will be less of a problem. Solar power systems have no moving parts to wear out or need lubrication. Once installed, solar power requires little attention. The user can almost forget it.
* Generators are widely available, so convenient to purchase and install. Convenience decreases after installation, though. A generator must be monitored frequently to be sure sufficient fuel is available. It must be refilled often when used as a regular source of power. Fuel must be ordered and delivery taken - or fuel must be hauled by the owner. The system must be serviced twice a year. This servicing will include filter changes, an oil change, a tune up, and complete inspection of the entire unit. Worn parts must be replaced.
Solar power versus Generator - Efficiency
The solar power versus generator battle includes the matter of efficiency, too. Which is more cost-effective? The facts seem to point to solar power.
* Solar power is received in through the panels, free of cost, and stored in batteries. It is ready for use when needed, but in times of reduced usage, the power remains in storage.
* Generators run constantly, regardless of the amount of power being used at a given time. As they run, they consume costly fuel. When power usage is reduced in bright daylight, generators must continue to run.
Solar power versus Generator - Dependability
Some argue that, in comparing solar power versus generator, we must compare the dependability factor. In this area, they claim, generators win.
* Solar power is very dependable in locations that have bright sunlight 300+ days of the year. In areas with less sunlight, or during periods of cloudiness and storm, solar power is less dependable. The system will continue to provide power from charged batteries, but will eventually go dead. Having said that, it must be noted that Germany, which has far fewer sunny days than most of North america, is said to have much higher usage of solar power. The problem of dependability seems not that big.
* Generator systems do not depend on sunlight. They do, however, depend on fuel. If storms or some other disaster hinders one from replenishing the fuel supply, generators also become useless.
Solar power versus Generator - Eco-friendliness
Finally, eco-friendliness must be considered in any discussion of solar power versus generator. That is, which is kinder to the environment: solar power or generator? The obvious answer again is solar power.
* Solar power has no emissions when working. There is no pollution involved in fuel production - no greenhouse gases. It is totally clean. Solar power uses a renewable energy source.
* A big drawback to generator use is still the matter of emissions and the environment. Generators are usually run on diesel fuel, and diesel fuel is produced from a fossil fuel. There are emissions in the production of the fuel, and also in its use. Diesel generators are a major source of air pollution and high sulfur levels in North america. Exposure to diesel generator exhaust can lead to health hazards.
Solar power versus Generator - the solution
For most people, the resolution of the solar power versus generator debate is to install a hybrid system. Using solar power as the main energy source will save money. The fuel is free. Solar power is convenient, efficient, and eco-friendly. What it lacks in dependability can be made up by having a small back-up generator for prolonged cloudy periods.
What is meant by a solar power roof tile?
The rays of sun generate radiant energy. Using different types of machines, this radiant energy can be captured, stored and treated to form other types of usable energy, as our needs might be. Solar power refers to the procedure of generating mechanical power, electricity or chemical power from solar energy resources. Solar chimney, solar heater, photovoltaic (PV) cells and solar roof tiles are some of the devices that can treat and harness solar energy. Among these devices, solar power roof tile has various advantages, and hence is generally preferred over other forms of commonly seen roof tiles. Roof tiles that are designed so that they can tap and process solar energy to produce electrical power or heat up water are called solar roof tiles. An industrial designer from Australia is credited with the invention of these solar roof tiles.
Getting to know the functionality of solar power roof tile
The modern day city is facing a serious problem - an acute power shortage. Solar power roof tile comprises of such techniques can solve this problem. Polycarbonate chassis is used to make up the solar power roof tiles, and it also contains a vessel of water and quite a number of photovoltaic cells (i. e. solar power cells). These solar cells are able to capture around 72%-80% of the total available sunlight. This is then transformed into heat energy, which in turn, warms up the water in the vessel. The electric wires of the building as well as the hot water system need to be connected to these tiles. The domestic requirements of electricity can be easily met by harnessing the sunlight that remains (around 20% of the total).
A handy boost to power savings is also achieved, since the roof tiles generate electricity that are well in excess of what is actually required in a home. Not much power is required from non-solar origins, since the excess electric power that is generated during the day can be easily utilized at night. Adding to the convenience is the significant backup they provide on days when the sky remains covered with clouds. Let us now look at how the system works. An inverter is kept present, to which the photovoltaic cells are connected. This setup is then attached to the main power box of the house. An electricity grid is also used, and the power box is kept linked to this grid. Now, this electrical grid can store all available surplus electricity. This excess electrical power can even be sold to the grid and some money can be earned. This helps the user gradually get back part of their investment on the solar roof tiles. After some time, the effective cost for producing electricity can even become zero too! Hence, installing the tiles makes sense, since they not only help a home generate its own electricity, but also prescribes a way to earn by selling off excess amounts of power.
All forms of different roof tiles can be easily matched to the solar power roof tiles, such are the designs of the latter. An estimated amount of 1. 5 kilowatts of electrical power can be obtained if 200 solar power roof tiles are used. This electricity is enough for the needs of a home that has three to four bedrooms. In the current world, these tiles are in great demand, both for commercial as well as residential purposes. The commercial tiles can be installed easily and quickly, by following a simple procedure. They do not enter the building structure as such, and also have high wind resistance properties. Research show that these solar roofs can resist winds blowing at up to 120 miles per hour too. These solar power roof tiles can also be fitted in rather short spaces that might be available. Thus, wastage of excess power can be stopped, and the required amount of electricity can be produced by having the roof tiles at all places of the house that gets exposure. Other aspects of the solar tiles, like their cost figures, their efficiency and other likely side effects need to be paid due attention as well.
Gauging the utility of solar power roof tile
The solar power roof tiles have such structures that they can be easily matched with most types of different concrete tiles. Hence, the resultant streamlined appearance of the roof enhances the overall fashion and décor of any building. Solar roof tiles generally need to be installed only once during one's lifespan. After installation is complete, there are absolutely no operating costs of these solar tiles, and they are expected to last around a period of thirty years. Many of the companies also offer production warranties for a 25 year period in addition.
Adding significantly to the process of installation of the solar roof tiles is the fact that, these tiles do not have other portable components that have to be moved as well. Solar power roof tile is extremely eco-friendly as well, since they do not pollute the atmosphere in any way, and do not emit any harmful greenhouse gas. Once solar roof tiles are in place, users can save extra amounts of power that is generated, produce electricity using a free and renewable source of energy, and make the appearance of their houses visually pleasing as well. Economic benefits from these solar power tiles are also significant.
You should be installing solar power roof tile if you wish to cut down on your power bills. Home solar systems are also ideal for generating electricity in an environment-friendly way. What you should do first is to get a guide that would help you know the basic stages of installing the system, and the places that are best suited for it. Relevant security measures, as well as how the wiring should be done is also discussed in such a guide. You can also learn from where to get the components of the system at rather low prices, and the batteries totally free. Once such a guide has been consulted, you are ready to set up a solar power system at your home.
Solar power for Notebook and Laptop computers
The idea of solar power for remote computing is finally catching on. It is working for everyone from the cross-country cyclist and weekend camper, to regular working stiffs that have to rough it on the job.
Solar power is not just a possibility, but could be a necessity for those that go remote. Solar panels are used to collect solar energy for direct use or storage in batteries to power up later.
Here is how solar, or photovoltaic energy is realized from the "How Stuff Works" website. If you are not an electrical engineer or scientist of some sort, don't be surprised if this does make light bulbs go off in your head. You can always come back and do further research on the internet.
"The solar cells that you see on calculators and satellites are photovoltaic cells or modules (modules are simply a group of cells electrically connected and packaged in one frame). Photovoltaics, as the word implies (photo = light, voltaic = electricity), convert sunlight directly into electricity. Once used almost exclusively in space, photovoltaics are used more and more in less exotic ways. They could even power your house. How do these devices work?
Photovoltaic (PV) cells are made of special materials called semiconductors such as silicon, which is currently the most commonly used. Basically, when light strikes the cell, a certain portion of it is absorbed within the semiconductor material. This means that the energy of the absorbed light is transferred to the semiconductor. The energy knocks electrons loose, allowing them to flow freely. PV cells also all have one or more electric fields that act to force electrons freed by light absorption to flow in a certain direction. This flow of electrons is a current, and by placing metal contacts on the top and bottom of the PV cell, we can draw that current off to use externally. For example, the current can power a calculator. This current, together with the cell's voltage (which is a result of its built-in electric field or fields), defines the power (or wattage) that the solar cell can produce. "
To continue, we will discuss the smaller hand held devices for cell phones and PDAs, all the way to powerful self-contained and fully remote commercial solar systems. Here are several links that describe the use of solar power for mobile computers and other wireless devices from the Do-It-Yourself perspective.
It is amazing what is already available and out in the marketplace for solar power options. As energy costs and energy conservation continue to garner interest as mainstream issues, we should see the rapid development of solar integrated design features. Soon it may be a standard feature and part of everyday portable computers.
Let's hope so, because going green is good for everyone, not just an intriguing proposition for rugged notebook users and remote computing,
Hand held Solar Kits
Solar kits are designed to be self-contained. They combine solar cells, rechargeable batteries, and a wide selection of cables. These won't power a portable laptop yet unless it's a miser on energy, but they will keep you connected with a limitless power supply for your cell phones, Smart phones, PDAs, and smaller devices. As long as the sun is shining, or the batteries are charged up, you will have power.
Many purists will argue anything solar is not really "green", either because it will never be energy positive (will never generate more power than it took to manufacture), or because it has a battery, making it environmentally unfriendly by default.
Arguments aside, at issue for rugged and remote users is a reliable power source, and having some sense of being connected. So, solar charging devices can be considered either as "convenience efficient" or "emergency efficient". Don't take this as a challenge to engineer types that will want to get their slide rules out, just a notation that these solar kits are an honest attempt at the "plus" column for reducing the human carbon footprint. Wider adoption and acceptance of new technology usually results in greater efficiencies.
Two promising examples that have had good reviews are the reasonably affordable products from Solar Style Dot Com, and the pricier Solio Dot Com. Do a search on Youtube and you will find many videos of Solio in action. If it did not work, we would know it by now.
Portable Solar Power Docking Stations
The idea of using solar power in remote situations is nothing new. The question for us is how well, and how fast, a solar power station will power up your notebook or laptop. Other considerations are the size, weight, and portability. You will find many products in this category, but few online reviews that confirm that these products will actually perform as advertised. The best source I have found for honest reviews in this regard is TreeHugger.com.
There are very few winners in the category of a portable solar power docking station to efficiently run a laptop computer. One that does get good reviews on the subject is the "PowerDock System".
Do an online search for PowerDock System, and you will find many retailers and dealers at different price points. So be patient and shop around. Your Mobile Desk Dot Com is the best resource for a complete descriptions of the PowerDock product line. These include from the least expensive to the most expensive: PowerDock Lite, PowerDock Basic. PowerDock Executive, and PowerDock Elite.
Power Dock Systems are relatively expensive, and range in price form a few hundred dollars on up to $450. 00. The PowerDock is an attractive product design an weighs in from 5 to 13. 5 pounds.
Another potential winner is the Notepower Solar Laptop Charger from Sierra Solar Systems. You will see the Notepower Solar Charger pop up along with the PowerDock in a search engine query for these type of solar products. Plug in the SmartAdapter with extended 10 foot cord included, and start charging or topping off your computer battery as long as sunshine is available.
Once again, this is not a review recommendation, but the Notepower has had favorable comments by TreeHugger.com and other reliable sources, giving no pause to mention it here. The 3 lb. Notepower is not designed with a storage battery, but the 20-30 watts of power will charge and run most laptop computers, according to the specs.
You may not consider the Notepower as a true solar docking station, but it is an attractive portable solar package for a temporary power solution. Originally priced around $250. 00.
Commercial and Military Grade Solar power Systems
Some of the best remote solar power systems are designed to meet military standards. You could even say that anything designed for military use is pretty much guaranteed to perform. These systems will compliment anything in the fully rugged notebook computer category.
Energy Technologies, Inc. in Ohio, USA makes a wide assortment of military standard power equipment for field use. Things like field deployable inverters, converters, UPS, engine-generators, along with solar power stations with the trade name Tactical Solar Products.
The product features for these Tactical Solar Products include various combinations of charge controllers, power storage batteries, AC/DC power adapters, multiple DC outputs, and a large selection of folding solar panels. The specific product line is the Solar Suitcase I, Solar Suitcase II, Solar Suitcase III, Solar Suitcase IV, along with the folding SolarTacticalPanels.
Solar Suitcases I-IV can charge Lead Acid, Li-Ion, NiCad, NiMH & other types of rechargeable batteries. The nearly bullet proof folding solar collection panels are available from a 15 Watt to a hefty 330 Watt output panel set. This is "green power", but you are out of luck if you prefer a color other than the two camouflage patterns available.
You will have to call ETI for costs, as product pricing is not published on the ETI websites.
Computing Solar Power Wrap-up
We have looked at several of the many possibilities for solar power, and going "green" with remote computing. The possibilities are becoming more reliable and starting to make more economic sense. You can try to go solar and Do-It-Yourself, or for the less technically inclined there is a wide range of retail and commercial applications for sale. We have attempted to highlight a few of the proven DIY options, and find some of the readily available products, and systems from various online reviews.
Some of the solar power resource websites you might want to keep an eye on include: Altapower.com, RadioLabs.com, and CTSolar.com. There obviously are many more you will find now and in the future with your favorite search engine.
Solar power versus Generator - the choice
Many who live "off the grid" in isolated locations have traditionally relied on generators for electrical power. Others have installed generators for back-up, emergency electrical power. Neither thought there was a choice, but now there is a choice: solar power versus generator.
In this article, we look at the choice. Which is more economical; more convenient; more environmentally friendly? Should you make the change?
Solar power versus Generator - Cost
The cost of solar power versus generator is much less over the long term.
The initial cost of a solar power system will be greater than that of a generator system. This is often the reason people install a generator rather than choose solar power. One must look beyond the initial cost, however, to get the full comparison of solar power versus generator.
* Solar power, once installed, has little maintenance or further expense. There is no fuel to purchase, since the sun's energy fuels the system.
* Generators are not so. After installation, a generator will require regular servicing by a professional every 6 months. Generators require fuel - a cost that is constantly increasing. Moving generator parts must be replaced from time to time due to wear and tear.
Solar power versus Generator - Convenience
Convenience is another factor to consider when looking at solar power versus generator power. Solar power is much more convenient than generator power.
* Solar power may be less convenient to purchase and install, since it is not as widely available as generators. This is due to the currently small market for solar power. As the market increases, however, this will be less of a problem. Solar power systems have no moving parts to wear out or need lubrication. Once installed, solar power requires little attention. The user can almost forget it.
* Generators are widely available, so convenient to purchase and install. Convenience decreases after installation, though. A generator must be monitored frequently to be sure sufficient fuel is available. It must be refilled often when used as a regular source of power. Fuel must be ordered and delivery taken - or fuel must be hauled by the owner. The system must be serviced twice a year. This servicing will include filter changes, an oil change, a tune up, and complete inspection of the entire unit. Worn parts must be replaced.
Solar power versus Generator - Efficiency
The solar power versus generator battle includes the matter of efficiency, too. Which is more cost-effective? The facts seem to point to solar power.
* Solar power is received in through the panels, free of cost, and stored in batteries. It is ready for use when needed, but in times of reduced usage, the power remains in storage.
* Generators run constantly, regardless of the amount of power being used at a given time. As they run, they consume costly fuel. When power usage is reduced in bright daylight, generators must continue to run.
Solar power versus Generator - Dependability
Some argue that, in comparing solar power versus generator, we must compare the dependability factor. In this area, they claim, generators win.
* Solar power is very dependable in locations that have bright sunlight 300+ days of the year. In areas with less sunlight, or during periods of cloudiness and storm, solar power is less dependable. The system will continue to provide power from charged batteries, but will eventually go dead. Having said that, it must be noted that Germany, which has far fewer sunny days than most of North america, is said to have much higher usage of solar power. The problem of dependability seems not that big.
* Generator systems do not depend on sunlight. They do, however, depend on fuel. If storms or some other disaster hinders one from replenishing the fuel supply, generators also become useless.
Solar power versus Generator - Eco-friendliness
Finally, eco-friendliness must be considered in any discussion of solar power versus generator. That is, which is kinder to the environment: solar power or generator? The obvious answer again is solar power.
* Solar power has no emissions when working. There is no pollution involved in fuel production - no greenhouse gases. It is totally clean. Solar power uses a renewable energy source.
* A big drawback to generator use is still the matter of emissions and the environment. Generators are usually run on diesel fuel, and diesel fuel is produced from a fossil fuel. There are emissions in the production of the fuel, and also in its use. Diesel generators are a major source of air pollution and high sulfur levels in North america. Exposure to diesel generator exhaust can lead to health hazards.
Solar power versus Generator - the solution
For most people, the resolution of the solar power versus generator debate is to install a hybrid system. Using solar power as the main energy source will save money. The fuel is free. Solar power is convenient, efficient, and eco-friendly. What it lacks in dependability can be made up by having a small back-up generator for prolonged cloudy periods.
