Solar Powered

Solar Powered – The Way To A Sustainable Future!

Solar powered – what does that mean?

It actually means a lot more than most people realize.

Solar Powered1 150x150 Solar PoweredAt its root, it refers to the generation of electricity from solar energy. Wikipedia notes that solar power has to do with converting the light from the sun into electricity. This can actually happen via a number of different mechanisms.

The two most common processes are:

  • concentration of the solar power using mirrors and lenses. This is similar to the process most of us used as children, when we concentrated the sun’s energy using a magnifying glass to such a degree that we could ignite a leaf.
  • conversion of sunlight into electricity by means of photovoltaic cells. Photovoltaic cells, which are commonly referred to as PVs, are also known as solar cells.

This process is not particularly new. In fact, the first known solar powered cell was constructed in the 1880s. What IS new is the level of efficiency now available from photovoltaic cells.

The first solar powered cells had efficiencies of less than 1%. By the mid 1950s, efficiencies of 4% to 6% were considered a real breakthrough.

Compare that to today’s solar panels. Some of the best solar panels have efficiencies exceeding 20%. That makes the solar powered concept a worthwhile endeavour.

Solar Powered Applications

In considering solar power systems, we are going to concentrate on home solar, that is, how solar power energy can be captured and utilized to benefit the average person. In focussing on this aspect, we are not ignoring the huge industry that has developed, and continues to develop at a rapid rate, associated with the industrial generation of solar power electricity.

But this site intentionally homes in on how solar powered applications can be used to reduce the costs of living for you and me. This is becoming increasingly important in these days of rapidly escalating utility bills, which by anybody’s measure are simply scary!

So here are some of the most common applications of solar power in the residential context.

1. Solar Water Heater
Solar powered water heaters have become very common around the world, and result in huge savings in energy consumption and therefore in bills.

An average household can save in excess of $300 per year, as well as reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 5 tonnes per year. Additionally, government rebates are available in many countries. It has also been noted that the installation of a solar hot water system increases the value of a property.

2. Solar Powered Fountains
There is an amazing array of solar powered water fountains available to enhance your outdoor area. They are cheap, easy to instal, long lasting, and will provide an outstanding feature for your garden area. And what can be more relaxing than the sound of running water?

3. Solar Powered Lights
Solar powered lights cover a wide range of uses, and are one of the most popular applications of solar electricity. The most popular forms include systems for Christmas lights, garden or farm sheds, security lighting, outdoor garden areas, and camping.

A wide variety of products to suit these applications is readily available, and many come at unbelievably cheap prices.

4. Solar Powered Water Pumps
This is a very common application, and should be seriously considered wherever a pump is required. They can be used for drinking water, garden fountains, irrigation, dams and ponds, and rainwater tanks. This is cost effective pumping indeed.

5. Solar Powered Refrigerators and Freezers
Many people don’t realize that refrigerators are among the highest energy users in a home. Solar power is eminently suited to these appliances. There are many models available up to 400 liters, as well as models to suit caravans, motor homes, and boats.

6. Solar Powered Attic Fan
These are one  of the most common solar powered applications today. They incur a low initial investment, are simple to instal, cost nothing to run, and can reduce your cooling expenses in summer by up to 75%. Solar powered attic fans are a great asset to any home.

Elsewhere in this site you will find a wealth of information which will assist you in understanding how the solar powered arena can benefit you directly.

Solar Powered – Questions and Current Issues

Here is a list of pertinent questions and issues which this site addresses:

  • Solar Power Systems – Learn the differences that make the best solar power systems stand out
  • Solar Panels – What are the most important features in solar panels for your home?
  • Flexible Solar Panels – The uses and availability of flexible solar panels
  • Portable Solar Panels – An amazing way to generate solar energy wherever you go

Solar power for your home is simple, quiet, relatively inexpensive to instal (and becoming rapidly less expensive), efficient, and sustainable.

Becoming solar powered is definitely the way to a sustainable future.

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