Sure, you’ve heard all about global climate change, and maybe you’re concerned about the rising cost of utilities. No matter your political allegiance, your income, or other factors, we want to know – what would it take to convince you to switch to solar power? Let me be clear: we have no dog in this [...]
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Would it surprise you to learn that solar power and other renewable resources are favored 2:1 by American citizens over traditional energy resources like coal and gas? Recently, two polling companies, representing each of the major political parties in the U.S., determined that twice as many U.S. citizens favor solar and clean energy than those [...]
Solar thermal power is quite different than solar PV power. The latter uses traditional solar panels, usually installed on rooftops or ground-mounted to generate solar electricity. PV power can be generated by individual installations, or via utility-scale solar power plants. Solar thermal, on the other hand, is a large-scale utility-scale operation. Solar thermal energy is [...]
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Solar power in California is turning out to be one of the most tapped into renewable resources. Residential solar power is highest in San Jose and San Diego. Bakersfield represents the third largest solar market in California. Cloudy, foggy San Francisco rates number four in the number of solar panel installations on homes, according to [...]
Now that its time to start thinking about decorating your home for the holidays, consider seasonal solar lights. Instead of strands of incandescent bulbs that rely on electrical power, save money and reduce your carbon footprint with outdoor solar powered lights. Think that outdoor solar lights are dim and hard to see? Think again! LED [...]
Every year, the news keeps getting better and better for people considering home solar power. Solar prices continue to fall – with a 17% drop in one year (2009-2010). Last week, a new study was published by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, commissioned by the U.S. Department of Energy, showing the overall trend to more [...]
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In 2007, the U.S. Department of Energy created the Solar Energy Grid Integration System, a competitive program that encouraged solar research that can better integrate solar energy generated by panels installed on rooftops or ground-mounted into the electrical grid. Among several goals of the program were: (1) help encourage utilities to accept solar power; and [...]
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Its not even officially fall yet, but retail stores have had holiday decorations on the shelves for weeks! One of the most popular items to purchase are holiday lights. These strands can brighten the exterior of your home, fences, patios and more. And when you chose home holiday solar lights, you don’t have to worry [...]
Are you considering installing solar panels? Good for you! Solar power has become practically mainstream in recent years as the prices have dropped and efficiency has increased. But before you make your investment, consider how to prepare your home for residential solar. With a few simple home improvement projects, you’ll be saving even more money [...]
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We found this great post on EcoFriend regarding solar powered catamarans! Solar powered boating has been a favorite topic here, and our readers enjoy learning more about using solar energy for recreational purposes. I’ve enjoyed boating on “regular” catamarans. The twin-hulled design is fast, and can be powered by wind/sails, or an outboard motor. Now, [...]
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