Considering Solar Power for Your Home

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Written by Cristian Stan

Monday, 23 November 2009

Due to the ever rising cost of electricity and because of environmental issues, many householders are seeking information on the alternatives, particularly solar power generators. This is not a new idea; however, with today's demands on our pocket and our planet's finite resources it is a serious and viable option.

Firstly, it must be said, that one does not have to live in a perpetual sun blessed climate on the equator for the suns ray's to provide free and convenient power. Even some of the world's gloomiest climate areas can benefit from this green energy.

Generally there are two types of solar power generators:

1. Photo-thermal.

2. Photo-voltaic.

Photo-thermal:

Photo thermal solar power generators, as the name suggests, generate heat from the sun's rays. This heat can be utilized to heat ones domestic water supply, central heating system or swimming pool.

These systems work by focusing the sun's energy on to collectors that heat water, the heated water is then circulated or pumped on demand. This type of system can be used on a large industrial scale when the water is heated to high temperatures creating steam, this steam then goes on to turn large turbines to generate electricity, however, we are discussing home use in this article and this method to generate electricity is not practical for the domestic environment.

Providing useable heat from the sun's energy is expensive and some local authorities and governments are funding or subsidizing installations in the interest of reducing carbon emissions.

Photo-voltaic:

Generally people think of solar panels as devices that directly generate electricity; these panels are photo-voltaic and that is exactly what they do. This method of providing free electricity is becoming more available and can be very inexpensive. For example, have a look around your local DIY store and you will find many gadgets and devices for the home and garden that are powered by the sun such as pond pumps, garden lighting, security alarms to name but a few.

Solar power on this scale is becoming very cheap and convenient not only saving money on the electricity itself but on having to install cables to these devices.

Considering powering one's home in its entirety using photo voltaic or solar panels although initially expensive, overtime, will provide free and green electricity and, today, is a serious and viable option.

Other Considerations:

There are considerations than one has to bear in mind before embarking on a large scale solar panel installation.

Check with your local planning office to make sure you are not contravening any local by-laws and obtain any relevant permission. Also make sure your property can withstand the added weight of solar panel arrays before going ahead with a roof or terrace installation.

Large solar installations are not really the realm of the DIY enthusiast and will require experts to calculate the number and size of panels you require for your power needs. There is much information on the Internet also you may be able to get advice from a local solar panel specialist who will be able to design a system for your individual needs.
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