With the growing concern of diminishing fossil fuels, and the carbon emissions being put off from using them, now is the best time to start thinking about alternative energy sources.
Over 65% of the energy consumed by Americans comes from fossil fuels, an alarming 20% still comes from nuclear power, and a mere 17% (and growing) comes from alternative sources. This is where we need to make some huge and radical changes. This information I found on the EIA website, a very informative read I must say.
There are three major renewable and clean energy sources that we have access to and are not using nearly enough. They are sunlight, wind, and water, if all three were used in conjunction for all major power plants, there would be no need to use fossil fuels or harmful nuclear energy, and we would be leaving less of a carbon footprint.
Less carbon foot printing for our energy consumption sounds like a good plan to me. Let’s take a deeper look into solar energy and see exactly what it is and how to harness it for our daily use.
What Is Solar Energy & How Does It Work
Solar energy is energy that comes directly from the sun, we harness this energy by using solar panels. Solar panels are basically made of temper-low iron glass and a product that has been used for electricity for decades, silicon. Of course there is a lot more science that goes into building solar panels, but that is the jist of it.
The solar panel sits in direct sunlight, the light from the sun collects in the silicon molecules and makes them move all around, which creates the energy. The energy created is called a DC current.
We cannot use the DC electrical current that comes directly from the solar panel unless we are only charging a battery. This current must be converted to a current that is usable in our homes, AC, which is also the dominant current used around the world.
The diagram above shows exactly how to properly run your home on a PV (solar) system.
What Are The Common Uses For Solar Systems
There are many ways you can use a solar power system. There are no regulations saying that it is prohibited for use on any residential, commercial, or public buildings. Finding the picture above, with the solar panel on a grass hut, was the best example of the open range you have with solar.
So, pretty much anything you can think of that you want to run on solar, the door is wide open. From your home to your business, and even your RV. To be honest, when I was younger and went out gold mining (yes that still exists), we used solar panels hooked to batteries to run our silage pumps and to dredge with. It is a very versatile energy source and can be portable.
Arizona State University-Temp uses a field of solar panels to power their campus during the day time hours. This field of panels also acts as canopy for the parking lot it spans. That’s a two in one system, covered parking and free power.
I could see using this same concept in my own home and PV System design, how wonderful!
Benefits of Using Solar
IT IS CLEAN ENERGY, that is the biggest benefit right there. We’re trying to leave less carbon footprints behind, using solar and other renewable clean energy sources is a huge step in the right direction.
Not only can you reduce your power bill, but if you choose to not use grid electricity at all you do not have to, which could eliminate your power bill.
Depending on the state you live in, you may be able to have a meter put in at installation. This meter tracks how much power you use and how much you send back to the grid. Which means you get paid for the extra energy going back to the grid. (Only nine states require that the utility company pay the owner for the energy going back to the grid, at the same price they charge for their energy.)
There is also a tax incentive to adding solar to your home. This incentive could end soon, so getting to the poles and voting for that to stay in effect is something to put on your list of things to do, even if you don’t plan on going solar, ALWAYS think green.
And of course, last, but not least by any means, you will always have power using solar. The grid power can crash and everyone that depends on it will be out of power, but not you.
Sunlight Solar Energy, Inc. Your One Stop Shop For PV Systems
I came across Sunlight Solar Energy, Inc. while looking for a job. Well Paul Israel, Founder and President, hired me for a marketing graphic design position. I was and still am very excited to work for this guy and his company. How many graphic designers get their dream job on the first attempt of entering the field? I am going to say not many.
Why is this my dream job? Well, I am designing for a company that I 100% stand behind their service and the product they sell and install. I mean I fully support all their efforts and accomplishments to date and in the future.
Sunlight Solar Energy, Inc. has over 30 years experience in the solar industry, they have a high standard for customer service, as the satisfaction of the customer is vital to their success.
The crew’s in all locations are licensed professional installers, that will impress you with their knowledge of your system and the cleanliness and professionalism of their work.
Sunlight Solar takes pride in every PV system they install. They are equipped to handle all of your solar needs, whether it be residential, business, or recreational, they do it all!
When you are ready to install your PV system don’t hesitate to call one of the offices or visit on line at www.sunlightsolar.com, you will find that they are happy to come out and give you a free estimate, and will extensively go over with you the package that is right for you and your expectations of your power system. They have offices in Oregon, Colorado, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.
If you mention my name at the time of your purchase, they will also give me a professional referral fee, so don’t hesitate to say Stacie Fortson sent you.
A Solar System Is Worth The Investment
Yes it is a bit costly to get started using solar, but the system will eventually pay for itself. Every investment you make in your life is costly, you just gotta ask yourself, “are they are worth it, and will they benefit me”.
When it comes to an investment in a solar system, it is worth it, its worth it just the same as purchasing a home or a vehicle is worth it. And it will benefit you with the money you save on power bills, and how you feel at the end of the day. Leaving less carbon footprints behind will make you feel better and benefit not only you but many others as well.
When it comes to powering your home, solar is the way to go. In the long run you will save money, potentially earn money from the system (you won’t get rich but…), and you are using a pure, clean energy source, and leaving less of a carbon footprint.
As always, thank you for visiting my site and reading my articles. Please feel free to leave a comment below to let me know what you think about using solar, I will respond as soon as I can.
Stacie Fortson
Go Green With Hemp
