Solar Power Air Conditioning

Solar power air conditioning

With summer here in full swing and people looking for ways to cool down in an efficient, cost-effective way, its time to consider solar power air conditioning.

There are two new A/C units that run on solar power, and help save energy and money.

The first is the SplitCool DC18 solar air conditioner from Solar Panels Plus.  Perhaps the best aspect about this device is not that its solar powered, but that it uses direct current (DC).

Generally speaking, solar energy must be converted from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) which is what you get when you plug into a socket.  The SplitCool DC18 is a 48 volt DC air conditioning unit with a variable speed compressor.

Use of DC means that no inverter is needed to operate the unit.  Not only does this save on the overall cost, but users also don’t experience the 15-20% power loss typically encountered during inversion. This makes this air conditioner far more efficient that a high-SEER AC unit connected to solar panels through an inverter.

Next, there is another solar power air conditioning unit from HotSpot Energy.  This alternating current (AC) product is the ACWH18 Air Conditioner Water Heater.  The HotSpot is a 18,000 BTU ductless mini-split heat pump that runs on 220v AC power.  It is a SEER 18 EnergyStar certified unit with an integrated heat recovery circuit allowing it to make hot water as a byproduct of running the AC.  A heat recovery circuit recovers heat that would normally discarded, and uses it to make hot water at temps up to 140F.  About 100 gallons of solar hot water can be produced each day.

The typical user with a 7-month cooling season will save $1,000 per year in electrical and water heating savings, compared to a customer running a SEER 13 unit and using a standard water heater. Even more exciting is the fact that a purchase of the solar power air conditioning unit will qualify for a federal tax credit.

Tags: solar cooling, solar power air conditioning, solar power cooling, solar powered air conditioning

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Solar Air Conditioning for Phoenix Arizona Urban Light Rail

One of my favorite solar power application is to use energy from the sun for solar air conditioning.  The same heavenly body that heats up the planet can also keep us cool and comfortable.

Light rail stations in Phoenix Arizona are cooled with solar power

In Phoenix, Arizona in the desert southwest of the United States, the A/C in their urban light rail stations is powered by sunlight.  This is welcome news for the people that live in this region.  During summer months, daytime temperatures can climb past 115 degrees F.  At the urban light rail stations in Phoenix, solar powered coolers can be activated with the touch of a button.  The chilled air produced can lower temps by 40 degrees.

The solar air conditioning system will automatically shut off after 15 minutes of operation to conserve energy.  Solar A/C is available at the urban light rail stations from May through September – Arizona’s hottest months.

Arizona’s light rail cooling system was initiated by Mayor Phil Gordon, who brought the idea back after a visit to Dubai. Phoenix has partnered with local utility NRG Energy, which agreed to fund the $300,000 project. NRG will operate and maintain the system.

Tags: light rail, solar air conditioning, solar cooling, solar phoenix, solar power, solar powered coolers, urban light rail

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Solar Panels Frequently Asked Questions

In an article published at HubPages, I reviewed questions and answers that many people have about solar power generally, and solar panels in particular.

Q: Is it expensive to install solar panels?

A: Not necessarily! Depending on where you live and your energy needs, you could install a home-based solar panel system for as little as $7,500. Many states offer incentives to off-set the cost of solar panels, as well. Don’t forget energy tax credits!

Q: How long will it take to recoup my investment in solar panels?

A: The answer to that question depends on a number of factors, including the size of the solar panel system (number of panels), your overall energy use, tax rebates and other incentives. Estimates range between 10-15 years. As solar technology leads to more efficient solar cells, and grid-payback systems are implemented by energy companies, expect the ROI to drop to 5-10 years.  Thinking beyond just monetary investment, your contribution to help slow global warming and reduce your carbon footprint will lead to an immediate payback.

Q: Does the process of manufacturing solar panels result in pollution?

A: Yes, there is some environmental impact from producing solar panels, as there is with any other manufactured good. But, the environmental costs of manufacturing are outweighed by the environmental benefits of reduced fossil fuel consumption. Even the smallest solar panel system can cut household greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 50 trees!  And remember that 100% of the electricity produced by solar panels is emissions-free!

Q: Solar power has always been a clean renewable resource – why has it taken so long for people to get interested in solar panels?

A: Since the earliest civilizations, people have been using solar power to warm their shelters and cook their food.  But modern solar panels have only been around for about 50 years.  Solar research and development is leading to more and more efficient solar cells, with higher conversion rates.  Prices are dropping, as well, as materials become more abundant and processes more streamlined.  Still, less than 3% of our nation’s electricity is generated by solar power.  Experts expect that to change over time, with solar energy generation growing at a rate of 20-30% annually. With added tax incentives, concerns about global warming and a strong desire to become energy independent, more and more people are willing to invest in solar panels.

Q: What about excess energy generated by solar panels?

A: If your solar panels create more power than you can use immediately, excess energy can be used to charge batteries on which you can draw later (if you are “off-grid”).  With grid-tied systems, the extra power is fed into the grid. Some utilities credit customers based on the amount of energy put into the grid. This helps defray costs of power drawn on overnight or during less efficient solar energy periods.

What questions do you have about solar panels or solar power in general?

Tags: solar frequently asked questions, solar panel questions, solar panels, solar power

View the original article here

Solar Powered Water Fountain

Solar powered water fountain

Today’s post inspiration came from working in the yard this weekend.  My husband has wanted to put in a small water feature for some time.   So, he found what he thought was a great deal – a stone water fountain for less than $300.   Turns out that it didn’t include the water pump and we’d have to trench wires to the fountain for its operation.

So, why not a solar powered water fountain?

Turns out that my idea has already been considered (of course) and a number of sites sell these items for a solar backyard or garden.  Like solar garden lights, Among the benefits of using solar power in your garden is that you will not have to trench and wire electricity to a solar water fountain.

Use solar power to operate pumps for garden fountains

Solar powered water fountains start as low as $40.  Small solar panels are usually employed to harness free solar electricity to run the pumps necessary for a garden water fountain.

Wondering where to buy a solar powered water fountain?  You can find them at major home improvement retailers and online.  Here are just a few sites:

I am relieved to find that I don’t have to worry about trenching or wiring to install a water feature in my backyard.  With solar power, I can have a convenient, easy to install and operate water fountain or bird bath.

What do you think about a solar powered water fountain.  Do you have one, or does it sound like a possible answer to your landscaping issues?

Tags: solar backyard, solar garden, solar powered water fountain, solar water fountain, water fountain

View the original article here

Solar Power Supported by American Mayors

U.S. Conference of Mayors shows strong support for solar power

At a recent municipal conference last week, a survey revealed that solar power is supported by American mayors, overwhelmingly.   The U.S. Conference of Mayors included leaders from all cities of more than 30,000 people, and took place in Baltimore, Maryland.

Among the issues facing municipal leadership are the development of clean energy technology, deployment of solar power and the creation of green jobs.  To get to the heart of the matter, a Siemens survey was revealed to illustrate the fact that renewable energy resources for clean power is a high priority for American mayors across the country.  This moves solar power, and other technologies, to the forefront.

According to Deborah Dehaney-Howard, spokeswoman for the U.S. Conference of Mayors, the survey did not focus exclusively on solar power.  However, the results did show that many city leaders believe solar electricity production, along with energy-efficient building technologies and LED lighting systems, is among the top three most promising clean energy technologies.  However, even though the mayors admitted that the Recession has impacted city budgets, they still plan on increasing use of green energy over the next 5 years.

Overall, one quarter of the cities represented at the conference have already established renewable energy production standards.  In fact, notwithstanding the absence of a national policy on green energy, many cities have incorporated policies to encourage clean energy like solar power within their master plans.

Cities encouraging solar power growth

Even with solar power supported by American Mayors, there are still some geographical differences across the country.  Generally speaking, you’ll find more solar electricity being developed in the West and Northeast.  Yet, overall, 46% of the cities surveyed responded in the survey that they see solar power as one of the most promising clean energy technologies.

Tags: clean energy, green jobs, solar cities, solar conference, solar panels, solar power, u.s. conference of mayors

View the original article here

Solar Panels Frequently Asked Questions

In an article published at HubPages, I reviewed questions and answers that many people have about solar power generally, and solar panels in particular.

Q: Is it expensive to install solar panels?

A: Not necessarily! Depending on where you live and your energy needs, you could install a home-based solar panel system for as little as $7,500. Many states offer incentives to off-set the cost of solar panels, as well. Don’t forget energy tax credits!

Q: How long will it take to recoup my investment in solar panels?

A: The answer to that question depends on a number of factors, including the size of the solar panel system (number of panels), your overall energy use, tax rebates and other incentives. Estimates range between 10-15 years. As solar technology leads to more efficient solar cells, and grid-payback systems are implemented by energy companies, expect the ROI to drop to 5-10 years.  Thinking beyond just monetary investment, your contribution to help slow global warming and reduce your carbon footprint will lead to an immediate payback.

Q: Does the process of manufacturing solar panels result in pollution?

A: Yes, there is some environmental impact from producing solar panels, as there is with any other manufactured good. But, the environmental costs of manufacturing are outweighed by the environmental benefits of reduced fossil fuel consumption. Even the smallest solar panel system can cut household greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 50 trees!  And remember that 100% of the electricity produced by solar panels is emissions-free!

Q: Solar power has always been a clean renewable resource – why has it taken so long for people to get interested in solar panels?

A: Since the earliest civilizations, people have been using solar power to warm their shelters and cook their food.  But modern solar panels have only been around for about 50 years.  Solar research and development is leading to more and more efficient solar cells, with higher conversion rates.  Prices are dropping, as well, as materials become more abundant and processes more streamlined.  Still, less than 3% of our nation’s electricity is generated by solar power.  Experts expect that to change over time, with solar energy generation growing at a rate of 20-30% annually. With added tax incentives, concerns about global warming and a strong desire to become energy independent, more and more people are willing to invest in solar panels.

Q: What about excess energy generated by solar panels?

A: If your solar panels create more power than you can use immediately, excess energy can be used to charge batteries on which you can draw later (if you are “off-grid”).  With grid-tied systems, the extra power is fed into the grid. Some utilities credit customers based on the amount of energy put into the grid. This helps defray costs of power drawn on overnight or during less efficient solar energy periods.

What questions do you have about solar panels or solar power in general?

Tags: solar frequently asked questions, solar panel questions, solar panels, solar power

View the original article here

Solar Power Supported by American Mayors

U.S. Conference of Mayors shows strong support for solar power

At a recent municipal conference last week, a survey revealed that solar power is supported by American mayors, overwhelmingly.   The U.S. Conference of Mayors included leaders from all cities of more than 30,000 people, and took place in Baltimore, Maryland.

Among the issues facing municipal leadership are the development of clean energy technology, deployment of solar power and the creation of green jobs.  To get to the heart of the matter, a Siemens survey was revealed to illustrate the fact that renewable energy resources for clean power is a high priority for American mayors across the country.  This moves solar power, and other technologies, to the forefront.

According to Deborah Dehaney-Howard, spokeswoman for the U.S. Conference of Mayors, the survey did not focus exclusively on solar power.  However, the results did show that many city leaders believe solar electricity production, along with energy-efficient building technologies and LED lighting systems, is among the top three most promising clean energy technologies.  However, even though the mayors admitted that the Recession has impacted city budgets, they still plan on increasing use of green energy over the next 5 years.

Overall, one quarter of the cities represented at the conference have already established renewable energy production standards.  In fact, notwithstanding the absence of a national policy on green energy, many cities have incorporated policies to encourage clean energy like solar power within their master plans.

Cities encouraging solar power growth

Even with solar power supported by American Mayors, there are still some geographical differences across the country.  Generally speaking, you’ll find more solar electricity being developed in the West and Northeast.  Yet, overall, 46% of the cities surveyed responded in the survey that they see solar power as one of the most promising clean energy technologies.

Tags: clean energy, green jobs, solar cities, solar conference, solar panels, solar power, u.s. conference of mayors

View the original article here

Save Money with Solar Power and Smart Meters

Many homes and businesses in California will be having smart meters installed pursuant to a mandate of the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).  But what does this mean, exactly?  How can smart meters help you save money?

How can smart meters help you save money?

In short, smart meters give consumers the tools they need to help them manage their electricity demands and lower utility bills.  When you have solar panels on your property and are grid-connected, they can also account for excess solar electricity generated, which can end up giving you a credit on your bill.

In short, a smart meter collects information for the smart grid.  They have been described as connecting your home to the grid in a similar manner as a cable or DSL modem connects your computer to the Internet.

Unlike the electro-mechancial analog meters with which you are probably familiar, smart meters include digital displays that precisely record the amount of energy you use, and then sends the information directly to the utility company.  That’s right…. the traditional “meter reader” is replaced with direct, 2-way communication between your property and the utility.  This is more efficient and more accurate.

Utilities can cut costs related to on-site meter reading and can even address service disruptions remotely.  The other benefit is that peak load times can be better managed.  Utilities can match real-time demands on the grid with information flowing directly to it.  Moreover, instead of simply looking at a consumer’s total consumption, smart meters pinpoint the exact times of day that electricity is used.  If you want power during peak hours, you will pay more than if you shift energy consumption to off-peak hours, say by washing dishes or doing laundry later at night.

Generally speaking, smart meters record the solar power generated by your residential solar power system.  This allows you the opportunity for net metering to get credit for solar electricity you feed back into the grid.

Consumers are finding that they can save money with solar power and smart meters.  First, installing solar is more affordable than ever with falling prices and continued government rebates and incentives.  Second, its much easier to finance solar power, which can further cut down on the cost of solar electricity.  Experts believe that TOU (time of use) pricing via smart meters for residential use is just a few years away.  When you factor in solar power, the impact of such a structure will be minimized because homeowners can “smooth out the gaps” in generation vs. demand.  Lots of solar electricity generation during the day (when people are at school and work), and then higher demand in the evening and morning hours.

Turns out to be a win-win for both the homeowners and the utilities with solar power and smart meters!

Tags: smart grid, smart meters, smart meters solar, solar power, solar smart meters

View the original article here

Solar Powered Water Fountain

Solar powered water fountain

Today’s post inspiration came from working in the yard this weekend.  My husband has wanted to put in a small water feature for some time.   So, he found what he thought was a great deal – a stone water fountain for less than $300.   Turns out that it didn’t include the water pump and we’d have to trench wires to the fountain for its operation.

So, why not a solar powered water fountain?

Turns out that my idea has already been considered (of course) and a number of sites sell these items for a solar backyard or garden.  Like solar garden lights, Among the benefits of using solar power in your garden is that you will not have to trench and wire electricity to a solar water fountain.

Use solar power to operate pumps for garden fountains

Solar powered water fountains start as low as $40.  Small solar panels are usually employed to harness free solar electricity to run the pumps necessary for a garden water fountain.

Wondering where to buy a solar powered water fountain?  You can find them at major home improvement retailers and online.  Here are just a few sites:

I am relieved to find that I don’t have to worry about trenching or wiring to install a water feature in my backyard.  With solar power, I can have a convenient, easy to install and operate water fountain or bird bath.

What do you think about a solar powered water fountain.  Do you have one, or does it sound like a possible answer to your landscaping issues?

Tags: solar backyard, solar garden, solar powered water fountain, solar water fountain, water fountain

View the original article here

Prevent Solar Panel Theft With Bryce Fasteners

One of the biggest issues facing people that own residential solar panels isn’t how to pay off the investment.  Its how to prevent solar panel theft.  Right here in my own neighborhood, a set of PV solar panels were stolen from the rooftop while the owners were on vacation!

Stealing solar panels can be stopped!

Unfortunately, with the growing cost of electricity and natural gas and the expense of alternative energy sources, stealing solar panels has become more common.  This has occurred as people are more aware of the value of solar panels and are looking for cheap (free?) ways to generate electricity.  Oftentimes the criminals simply re-sell the stolen solar panels on eBay or Craigslist.

Prevent Solar Panel Theft

Yet, there are ways to stop solar panel theft that do not entail an expensive home security monitoring system or elaborate fencing.

Bryce Fasteners is a new company that uses a unique key-entry lock to fasten residential solar panels to the roof.  These tamper-proof fasteners are customized, meaning that regular tools cannot uninstall the screws, nuts and bolts.  You’ll have to special order the drivers from the manufacturer in order to put the panels on or off.

In short, it will be hard to steal solar panels quickly and without a lot of effort if Bryce Fasteners are used to secure the installations to the roof.

Homeowners and professional solar installers should consider the Bryce Fasteners to prevent solar panel stealing.  If it is too tough to accomplish, these criminals would perhaps abandon the effort!

Tags: bryce fasteners, residential solar panels, solar panel stealing, solar panel theft, steal solar panels, stealing solar panels

View the original article here

How to Make Free Solar Energy For Home Use

Do you want to learn how to make free solar energy for home use? Even though energy prices keep rising, many people feel that they are unable to do anything about that and have to pay whatever price they are charged. As a result, people are spending far too much money than they really have to on electricity bills.
1. How Do You Get Rid of Energy Bills Fast?
One of the best ways to avoid those bills completely is to build your own DIY renewable energy system. They are very environmentally clean and cheap to use. Some examples include solar energy and wind powered systems such as windmills and turbines. It has helped me reduce my bills dramatically, even completely eliminating them on some occasions.
2. Which Are the Best Ways to Make Free Solar Energy for Home Use?
Traditionally, the only way was to purchase a retail system for a very high cost. But because most people cannot afford them, most do not realize the benefits of using these systems. One of the best ways today is to use solar power harnessed freely from the sun.
This can be done by building systems such as solar panels on top of your roof. By doing this DIY for less than $200, I was able to make back all the investment costs in less than 3 months and am saving more than 70% of electricity bills every month now.
3. Where Can You Learn to Make Free Solar Energy for Home Use?
There are many informational websites on the Internet today that provide instructions on how to do this DIY. From my own experience, the best method is to download a guide from high quality websites. It provides me with video tutorials on how to build solar and wind powered systems step by step.

Do you want to create Free Solar Energy for Home Use? Download the Best Step-By-Step Home Energy Guides at http://www.renewableenergysystemreview.com first!
The author has managed to reduce his energy bill by more than 80% by building his own renewable home energy system. Check out his website above to find out how to do it!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gary_Ashby

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