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 [...]
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So far, 2012 is turning out to be a bright year for solar power. Installations of the renewable energy resource have increased by 69% so far this year, according to Clean Edge’s report Clean Energy Trends 2012. Since 2010, renewable energy has been growing at an impressive pace – overall about 31%, representing an increase [...]
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The term “distributed generation,” may not be understood by the average homeowners, but if you install residential solar panels, that is exactly what you will be utilizing. When people generate and use solar power at the same location, its called distributed generation. This is in contrast to utility scale solar power, usually in the form [...]
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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 [...]
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Over the past 5 years, the price of solar panels has dropped dramatically while efficiency of solar arrays has increased significantly. Yet, it appears that the renewable energy revolution continues to make life better and cleaner for many of us! The University of Texas at Austin announced this month that one of its solar researchers [...]
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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 [...]
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With more and more companies producing electric cars, and consumers looking to buy emissions-free vehicles that can save them significant money at the pump, is it any surprise that solar charging canopies are gaining in prominence? Using solar power to charge electric vehicles (EVs) is becoming more common-place both at residential and commercial sites. General [...]
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The exact measure of the benefits of solar rebates and tax incentives is a subject of debate. Some question whether the government should allow tax revenues to be trimmed with rebates, given the current economic climate. Others believe that the free market should be allowed to operate, and if people cannot afford solar power, they [...]
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Let’s raise awareness of the positive impact of solar power. Band together with your neighbors and friends on November 20, 2011 for the first Community Solar Day: Occupy Rooftops, organized by Solar Mosaic, 350.org, Vote Solar, and others. The day is dedicating to gathering people around the world in support of solar energy. Participants will “occupy [...]
The United States Department of Energy (DOE) released a report last month with information on financing solar installations for schools. The report, titled “Solar Schools Assessment and Implementation Project: Financing Options for Solar Installations on K-12 Schools,” was published on October 20, 2011. The report was produced under the DOE’s SunShot initiative to support development [...]
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