When you hear the term “solar power,” you probably think of solar electricity generated by photovoltaic (PV) solar panels. But there is another form of residential solar power that is both affordable and efficient: solar thermal panels for solar hot water. Just like PV panels, solar thermal panels require exposure to sunlight. Even at lower [...]
Continue reading about Solar Thermal Panels for Solar Hot Water
Going solar is easier for homeowners with a few key resources. Here are a couple of tools to help you switch to solar power with less hassle and expense: 1. Tap into Solar Incentives One of my favorite resources is the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE), which lists state rebates and [...]
Continue reading about Tools to Help You Switch to Solar Power
If you are thinking about installing solar panels on your home but concerned about the expense, have you considered solar thermal panels? Solar hot water heaters use specialized solar panels to heat water for domestic use, without the need for conventional electricity. Heating water for household uses like bathing, washing dishes and laundry is one [...]
Continue reading about Solar Hot Water Heaters: Radiant Heat for Free Hot Water
Once you have made the investment to install solar panels, you’ll want to maximize their efficiency and output. If shade, snow or technical issues are reducing the amount of solar electricity generated by the system, you’ll want to know right away. You can now monitor your residential solar panel system with a smartphone application. Its [...]
Continue reading about Monitor Your Residential Solar Panel System with a Smartphone Application
Have you been thinking about installing a residential solar system? Well, now is the time! The cost of solar panels has dropped more than 40% this decade, and more and more people have changed to solar. If you are still on the fence, consider these top reasons to switch to solar power: 1. Reduce Your [...]
Continue reading about Top Reasons to Switch to Solar Power Now
No matter the economy, tax credits/incentives or greenhouse gas emissions and global climate change, there are many factors that could – and do- influence the solar power market. No matter what people say about Solyndra or any other renewable energy company, the solar power market is predicted to grow in 2012. Last month, Solarbuzz, one [...]
Continue reading about Solar Power Market Predicted to Grow in 2012
For the past several years, we’ve been blogging about rooftop solar shingles. As an alternative to bulky PV panels, solar power shingles blend in, while generating cheap solar power. Its a perfect example of building integrated photovoltaics. Finally this month – October 2011 – Dow Corning’s Powerhouse Solar Shingles are finally available for homeowners. The [...]
Continue reading about Dow’s Solar Shingles Available for Homeowners
Over the past few years, we have written several articles about solar shingles – roofing material that both covers your home with a protective layer and generates clean, renewable solar power. As with other types of solar panels, one of the biggest questions regarding solar shingles is whether they are cost-effective for residential solar? Also [...]
Continue reading about Solar Shingles: Cost-Effective for Residential Solar?
For residential property owners considering solar power, there are many questions that you’ll want to have answered. Beyond cost and efficiency, some of the most pressing inquiries have to do with the effects from installing rooftop solar panels. In other words, how will things change for you and your property after putting in a solar [...]
Continue reading about What Effects From Installing Rooftop Solar Panels?
With rising energy costs and concerns about global climate change, many homeowners are considering renewable energy options. Under the current circumstances, including the economy and technology, you might be asking: should you install home solar panels? Residential solar panels are more affordable than ever. Federal, state and local incentives are still available to help you [...]
Continue reading about Should You Install Home Solar Panels?
