Investing in Energy – Solar Energy Investments Explored
Investing in Energy – Solar Energy Investments Explored
Solar energy investments are one of the hottest investments of the year, and for good reason. In 2009, the many companies that produce solar products were able to find ways to lower the cost of their goods so that more people could utilize solar products in their own homes. Because of this reduced price tag, more people are buying solar products. More buyers mean more demand, which means increased profits for solar energy corporations. For investors, that means that investing in energy with these companies is a great way to make a profit and there has never been a better time to make that investment than now.
Companies like First Solar are leading the markets with their stock prices, but there are many options for investing in this type of energy when you’re considering it for yourself. Almost every major energy corporation in the industry is experiencing huge surges in sales and profits because of the ‘go green’ initiative that everyone is trying to become a part of. As the demand continues to grow and prices continue to drop for consumer products, this energy industry is only going to get bigger and better.
In the United States, primarily, solar energy investments are practically a sure bet for investors. Investing in energy usually has some ups and downs to be expected, but everything looks stable from the standpoint of most of this energy companies right now. Worldwide, these investments are growing, as well, reporting increases in shares, revenues, and shareholder profits across the board. Every country has their own clean and solar energy initiatives in place and that likely affects the popularity of these companies quite drastically. With all of this being said, there is something that all investors need to keep in mind.
Investing in energy like oil or other products might be a quick risk worth taking. Investing in solar energy, however, is more of a long-term stable investment that will gain significant profits over time. This companies aren’t exploding and they don’t have as many ups and downs as other energy products. This is what makes them great for people who are just starting out or those who are more conservative with their investments. Take the time to look at this type of energy corporations, stocks, and other investment options for yourself to determine the right move for your investment portfolio. If you’re playing it safe and looking for something that you can depend on, this just might be more information on investing in investment opportunities usually or normally not found in the marketplace, click here!…
Homemade Solar Panel
Homemade Solar Panel
Having to pay someone to come in and set up the power system on your roof can be very expensive and will cost thousands of dollars easily. It is much cheaper to do it yourself and the results can be just as effective. If you are interested in taking advantage of free and clean energy that comes from sun, then you really may want to think hard about adding those panels to your home. You’ll notice a difference in your electricity bill and you will also be doing your part to protect the environment.
I was always very curious about solar energy but I never came across the thought of building my own solar power systems but in this time of crisis where cost of living is rising, building your own solar power systems can go a long way providing not just financial solutions, but solutions to the problems of the world as well.
My question was, how do I create my own solar systems without knowing anything about it.
I found out that there are a ton of guides out there which can give you the detailed schematics. You will need some plywood, flexi glass, silicone, a soldering iron and some tabbing wires in order to complete your simple yet effective solution to electric bill problems.
It is true that PV cells, which are responsible for harnessing the sun’s energy, can be quite expensive and you can not build your own out of junk. But there is a way to acquire it with little cash. There are those who are selling chipped or used PV cells all over the internet and in other buy and sell ads around the country.
A quick search in the internet, a stop at your local bookstore or even a chat with your local hardware salesman can teach you how to complete this project on your own. I have done a long research, because my skills with tools aren’t as good as others but after trying couple of videos on YouTube and metacafe I finally came across DIY solar panel Home Kit. My home power system was complete for less than $180 after a week of work!
DIY easy to follow, fully illustrated manuals and step by step instructional videos and if you’re interested in learning exactly how to generate power and reduce your energy bill, then this is the solution for you.…
Solar Energy is the Way of the Future
Solar Energy is the Way of the Future
Mankind’s use of solar energy has a history that dates back centuries. Archimedes, renowned Greek mathematician and scientist, used the concentrated reflections of soldiers’ brass shields to set fire to enemy ships during the 2nd century B.C.E. By the 6th century A.D., the Roman emperor Justinian placed so much value on the sun’s warming energy that he established “sun rights,” laws guaranteeing every individual’s right to enjoy sunshine.
For centuries thereafter, scientists courted the sun and its potent heat and energy. In 1767, Swiss scientist Horace de Saussure constructed the world’s first solar collector. In 1883, American scientist Charles Fritts published a description of the first solar cells made from thin sheets of selenium, and in 1908, Carnegie Steel employee William Bailey invented a solar collector composed of copper coils contained in an insulated box, a design which is still in use today.
Through 1953, solar energy use was of the passive kind. But in 1954, solar energy took a new turn, as Bell Labs developed the first solar cell that was able to produce enough electrical current to run common electrical appliances and equipment. Twenty years later, University of Delaware researchers introduced the world to the power of solar panels, with the construction of Solar One, one of the world’s first solar-powered homes.
Today, solar panels are used in all types of construction, from residential to commercial to government buildings. Tax credits and a shift toward more sustainable fuel resources have helped increase the panels’ popularity. But the price of the panels and their installation can still be prohibitive to many individuals attracted by their “green,” earth-friendly footprint. Most homes require a substantial investment to install a system powerful enough to replace electricity and fossil fuels, and some experts have estimated it can take several decades for a solar panel system to pay for itself.
But despite its high cost and long “payback” time, solar is still attractive to many homeowners. Thousands of homeowners take the plunge every year and convert their homes to solar power. In addition to eschewing fossil fuels and creating a more earth-friendly profile, solar energy can allow homeowners to live “off the grid,” disconnecting from the stranglehold of major utilities like electric, oil, and natural gas. What’s more, when a home’s system makes more electricity than it needs, the homeowner can sell that extra electricity back to the local electrical utility. Don’t get too excited: even with that benefit, solar systems can still take decades to pay for themselves.
But just as the solar energy industry has evolved over the past millennia, homeowners interested in incorporating these shiny panels into their home’s design should keep their eyes open: tax breaks, advances in solar technology and increased competition among solar panel manufacturers have caused considerable price drops in recent years. If your home is situated in a position to soak up the rays, and you’re planning on staying put for awhile, solar panel installation might be a wise investment for you.…
Solar Energy Predictions for 2011
Solar Energy Predictions for 2011
2009 and 2010 were great years for the solar energy industry. This is rather odd when you think about it. Why? Well, nearly everything else was a complete disaster. So, will the good times continue in 2011 or will the solar energy industry start to reflect what is happening in the real economy? Let’s get to our predictions for 2011.
2011 is going to be a bumpy year for solar energy. There is no other way to view it and manufacturers are already more than a bit nervous. Is solar going out of favor with consumer? Are we going back to oil and coal? Has President Obama turned his back on alternative energy? I don’t know the answers to these questions, but I do know they are not at the heart of the problems for solar in 2011.
The problem is simple – oversupply. Solar energy has had so much momentum the last few years that every Tom, Dick and Harry has moved into the field. We now are looking at a supply rate that is forecast to be twice the demand level in 2011. This is a classic formula for price drops and the contraction of the industry.
As if things weren’t going to be rough enough, additional developments are pointing to an even slacker demand. Much of the solar panel sales explosion has occurred because state and federal government provides financial incentives to help people deal with the initial cost of panel systems. The economic collapse has slashed tax revenues, so governments are now slashing these incentives. That will weaken demand even further, a real shock to the system.
What about consumers? Solar will be a mixed bag in 2011 for us as well. There will not be nearly as many incentives to help us with purchases. That being said, the good news is a glut of panel systems should lead to some incredibly low prices on home systems. This will be particularly true as manufacturers fail, merge and try to get rid of inventory.
The solar energy industry got off lightly through the years of the Great Recession. That is about to change in 2011.…
A Green Thinkers List of Solar Energy Benefits
A Green Thinkers List of Solar Energy Benefits
There are usually two types of people when it comes to green products. There are the people who know little to nothing about it, and there are the people who are extremely passionate about them. This list of solar energy benefits is an attempt to bring a happy medium of awareness to those who know little to nothing about solar energy.
The first benefit is that solar power is a renewable resource. As long as the sun is in the sky we will be able to make use of its energy. You can’t say that about other traditional methods which might run out. Even trees which may be re-planted are being consumed faster than we can renew them.
Fossil fuels have an unfortunate side effect of releasing things like carbon dioxide, carcinogens or greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Solar power does not have this negative environmental effect. Noise pollution is also caused by other renewable energy resources, but this is not the case with solar energy cells.
More solar power benefits occur because the fact solar panels are very dependable. They do not frequently move so replacing parts is generally minimal. When it comes down to numbers, a few thousand hours of energy generation can occur with very little or even no maintenance.
Solar energy power also include those that involve money. You don’t have just one single company producing one type of solar energy panel. You can get ones that cost in the ten thousands and others in the hundreds. This means your budget doesn’t restrict you, you can start off going solar with any type of budget.
The original outlay of solar panels isn’t the only financial concern when taking advantage of solar panels, the long run shows that solar electricity is less expensive than getting it from the power company. Once your equipment is installed, it starts paying itself off. After you break even, you then see money back in your pocket!
You don’t necessarily stop there either. Most power companies want to buy your excess power also. You need to get in touch with your local power company for full details, but it would be exciting to have them pay you for energy they use! If you don’t want to contact them, you don’t have to: your solar energy benefits include the luxury of living off the grid.
Solar energy methods and equipment is constantly being researched and improving. With the increasing interest in solar energy alternatives costs are decreasing; solar products are becoming more mainstream and a variety of different solar energy products means that consumers have the option of going as green as they want to.
While there are a number of activists out there who want everything to be as ecologically friendly as possible, we live in a society where we are accustomed to some comforts, but by realizing the advantages, and know that solar energy benefits aren’t an all or nothing scenario, everyone can start going a little more green.…
What Is Solar Photovoltaic Technology?
What Is Solar Photovoltaic Technology?
Understanding Photovoltaic Cells
Photovoltaic cells, also referred to as solar cells, have a basic process that takes sunlight and convert it into electricity. Discovered in 1954, scientists found that silicon could be used to make an electric charge, if it was exposed to direct sunlight. Technology advanced, and with it solar cells were soon powering satellites, and even our most basic commodity; a watch or calculator. In today’s high tech world people now use these cells to power their homes, businesses, and utilities companies are now taking PV technology even further, by using this technology for power stations.
First generation solar panels that are used in businesses and homes, will normally use modules that hold as many as 40 cells. In order to provide electrical needs for an average home, one would need to use 10 – 20 panels, that are fixed at an angle; usually south. Some will use a mount design, that allows for a tracking device, that then moves with the sun, allowing for optimum sunlight to hit the panels. When you combine panels together you’ll hear them referred to as a solar array. Large solar arrays are most often used to power electric utility companies, or large industrial complexes. When interconnected, these solar arrays enable large PV systems to power thousands of homes and buildings combined.
As stated earlier, these cells are made from silicon, often found in sand, and are considered to be one of the most efficient types of solar panels. Cells that are second generation are comprised of amorphous silicon and nonsilicon materials. These cells are thin film cells, use semiconductor materials, and their thickness is measured in micrometers. Their flexibility and thinness gives them the appearance of house tiles or shingles, thereby making them a perfect choice for roofs, tiles, glazing on skylights and building facades.
Third generation cells are made from a variety of materials. Inks used in printing press technology, conductive plastics, and solar dyes are the main ones currently being produced. As technology continues to advance in this field, we’re seeing solar cells using lenses made of plastic or mirrors, as a way to concentrate and enhance rays from the sun, into smaller than ever and more efficient PV materials. Although more expensive to purchase, less panels need to be used, thus making them a cost effective option for industrial uses, and for whole utility company usage. Concentrating collectors that use lenses have the drawback, that they are only suitable for some areas where there is a higher concentration of sun yearlong.
As we head into the future, it’s expected that solar technology will accelerate at an amazing pace, due to solar technology advancing and becoming smaller every year. Currently many homes are using this technology, as are businesses, but as solar become smaller and more affordable, prices will continue to drop, thus enabling the average homeowner to afford this new technology and go off-grid or sell power back to the grid.
The National Center for Photovoltaic offers information on all the latest research in solar cell PV technology, and currently supports the DOE SunShot Initiative, that plans to have large scale solar systems, that are cost effective by 2020. Everblue Courses are designed to teach about home energy efficiency and create knowledgeable technicians for the coming expansion of sustainable energy.…
More Solar Projects Are Sprouting Up In The Agriculture-Rich San Joaquin Valley
More Solar Projects Are Sprouting Up In The Agriculture-Rich San Joaquin Valley
Agriculture is a $20 billion per year industry in the San Joaquin Valley, and farmers there are the most efficient in the world. But that kind of production comes with a power price tag.
Water pumps, refrigeration and other farm-related uses accounted for 13% and 11% of the total electricity consumed in Fresno and Kern counties respectively in 2009, according to the California Energy Commission. So, it makes sense that growers would be interested in reducing their power bills.
In Delano, grape grower Castle Rock Vineyards recently installed a solar-energy system to power its 280,000-square-foot cold-storage facility – shaving at least $233,000 from its power bills annually.
The system was installed by REC Solar, which featured a profile of the project from Renewable Energy World on its Web site. Castle Rock Vineyards received a federal tax credit, state rebate and bank financing to pay for the 1.1 megawatt system – and is additional proof that clean energy has a place down on the farm.
The system is projected to offset more than 63 million pounds of CO2 emissions, equivalent to removing 6,112 cars from the road, over the next 20 years.
Castle Rock has vineyards in central and southern San Joaquin Valley and in Coachella, near Palm Springs.
With abundant sun, ample land and easy access to the grid, the San Joaquin Valley is considered ripe for solar projects. In fact, Southern California Edison announced today that it inked power-purchase contracts for more than 800 megawatts of power with SunPower Corp. of San Jose and Fotowatio Renewable Ventures of San Francisco that will be created, in part, from projects in Los Banos in Merced County and Arvin and Lamont, both in Kern County.
That is enough power for more than 460,000 average-sized California homes.
A Southern California Edison spokesman said solar is coming of age, making it more economical for utilities committed to increasing their clean-energy portfolio. “This is an important turning point…,” said utility vice president Marc Ulrich in a statement. “The advances in photovoltaic technology, couple with economies of scale, enable SCE to provide Californians with a large-scale power plant’s worth of emission-free energy at a competitive price.”
The contracts include 110 megawatts in Los Banos, scheduled to be operational by year-end 2014; 60 megawatts in Lamont, scheduled to go on-line by Dec. 31, 2013; and 20 megawatts in Arvin, slated to be operational by Sept. 30, 2013.…
Solar Energy: Here Are A Few Essential Things You Must Know Before Building Solar Panels
Solar Energy: Here Are A Few Essential Things You Must Know Before Building Solar Panels
So, you think it’s time to make your own solar energy generator to cut bills or have a non polluting energy source for your home. Before you begin you need to know how it works.
Solar energy is made by rays of sun that reach earth in just a few minutes after they leave the Sun’s surface covering the distance of 93 million miles in a few minutes. After all, light travels with the speed of light. The atmosphere absorbs most of this energy and one third of the sunlight is reflected back into space. What remains is what we can use to create energy.
Did you know that the biggest solar battery on our planet is Earth itself? It absorbs about 174,000 billion kilowatts (kW) from the Sun every 60 minutes? All in all, by now you should know that the light produced on one square meter during a cloudless summer afternoon, is generating about 1000 watts.
Unfortunately, most of this energy is wasted. The energy that does not go to waste gives birth to the winds and sustains life. Plants use it to generate oxygen, animals and human beings need it to strengthen their organisms.
However, we have reached that moment in our evolution where we can harvest more energy from the Sun. You must know that the types of solar energy are direct or indirect, active or passive.
Direct solar energy is created when sunlight is striking a solar cell directly and electricity is generated immediately. It directly transforms, without any other process.
On the other hand, indirect solar energy needs one more step to change sunlight into useable energy. It’s the case of hydroelectric generators and wind generators, transforming solar-caused wind, rain and other climatic interactions into power.
We can change sunlight into some other type of energy by:
Solar thermal processes: Sun energy is changed into heat. During this process, the sun’s heat is absorbed by solar panels which then heat water which can be used to heat buildings. The solar panels are often placed on the roof or somewhere where they have more sunlight, and are introduced afterwards into a system of tubes called "thermal collectors" to the heating source.
Photovoltaic processes: Unlike the solar thermal systems, through this process, photovoltaic cells absorb the sun’s light and not its warmth, so sunlight is changed into electricity. They are viewed as the future of power generating technologies and are often silicon-based pieces of material. Solar panels are built of many of such cells, put together.…
Solar Decathlon House You Can Eat
Solar Decathlon House You Can Eat
Sounds crazy doesn’t it? But that’s exactly what is being accomplished in this year’s US Department of Energy’s Solar Decathlon 2011.
The Solar Decathlon which originated in 2002, occurs over a two year period and challenges collegiate teams to design and build houses that operate on solar power.
They must be attractive, cost effective, and most certainly, energy efficient and affordable.
Twenty teams from around the world, including the US, Belgium, China, and New Zealand are participating, creating a competition that is diverse both geographically and academically.
One of the most unique projects ever conceived will be presented by the University of Maryland this year. They call it the Watershed house and its design incorporates the use of a mini eco-system that captures and fully utilizes the energy from the sun, wind, rain, and even the household waste that contains valuable energy and nutritional resources. Also included in it’s design is an edible wall, although not a support wall I’m sure.
The house is laid out with two rectangular sections that are parallel to each other with the two outside opposing walls built higher which creates a roof that looks somewhat like a butterfly. The roof is designed for maximum sunlight and rainwater capture.
The structure itself is actually quite attractive and features:
– A roof top array of photovoltaic solar panels;
– The latest “smart” technologies to control ventilation, humidity, temperature, and light;
– An edible wall connected with a beautiful garden;
– Modern building materials that are pleasant to the eye.
Amy Gardner, an associate professor of architecture at the University of Maryland says: “Our goal for Watershed is to produce an eco-system whose efficiency comes from the interconnectedness of building, site, and the people who inhabit them”.
This is the fourth time a Maryland team has made it to the finals. In 2002, they took fourth place with a residentially designed house that demonstrated the practicality of using solar energy. The team improved on their solar house project in 2005 and received the People’s Choice Award, the BP Solar Innovation Award, and a Safety Award honorable mention. In the 2007 competition, their LEAFHouse was the best in the US and placed second overall, winning the People’s Choice Award. They also gained some industry recognition as they received the ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers) award for “Integration for Renewables for Sustainable Living” and the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) Marketing Curb Appeal First Place Award.
Students can focus their attention and sharpen their skills by taking courses offered in Architecture, Agriculture, and Engineering by UM beginning in the fall 2009 and concluding in the fall 2011. There are plenty of extracurricular activities where volunteers can help also.
Students come from a variety of fields of study including architecture, architectural landscaping, and environmental science and technology. They are accompanied by a very divers faculty as well. As Gardner puts it: “This year, the project will benefit from the UM tradition of an integrated, inter-generational team, with voices both fresh and seasoned, encompassing a depth and breadth of mentors and students from varied disciplines.”
All of the finalists will have their projects on display at the National Mall beginning in October 2011. The National Mall is located in Washington DC and the site of the Decathlon is usually in close proximity to the Washington Monument.
Let me suggest that you take a tour with family or friends if you have some extra time or happen to be in the area. It is a free event and one that I’m sure will fascinate you while giving some valuable information with regard to our solar energy future as well.…
Solar Energy Home and All Details on This Energy Alternative
Solar Energy Home and All Details on This Energy Alternative
People started to understand the idea behind usage of solar power and started using them for their homes and offices successfully. Solar energy home is one of the best energy green homes of the future green world. Many people think orientation towards solar energy is a costly affair. But this is totally wrong and one can see many budget friendly solutions in them with effective working to the needs. All the solar power designs are offers heating, cooling and natural light very effectively to these great green world solar energy homes. The solar electricity is capable to run your electrical appliances, solar water heating provides household water needs like cooking, laundry and showers. All these needs can be accomplished easily within your budget through many available solar power options.
All these days we all depended on many equipments for our needs as heating, cooling and natural light, But no longer we need to depend on those equipments and passive solar design is capable enough in supplying these all through natural ways in your solar energy homes. This way one can control his usage of energy and in turn you can control releasing carbon and few wastes. This energy alternate is purely through immediate environment and safe on you and planet too. Little construction material with latest green world technology can provide you heat by trapping sun’s heat during winter and it blocks the heat during summer. This way one gain all benefits naturally without depending on any equipment or electrical appliances and which is a great saving of energy too.
Solar energy homes are fully functional through solar electricity. This can be generated through solar panels by absorbing sunlight and converting the same into required format of electricity. Here an inverter will be used as an interface in converting the produced AC current into DC current.…