Home Solar Power
Written by John Carl Villanueva
Solar panels in space (NASA/SAIC)
There are some things you might want to be aware of before you go driving off to buy yourself some solar panels. First, let me present you some of the disadvantages with these types of technologies.
One common problem that will always hound renewable energy sources like solar and wind is their intermittent supply. Sure, the sun will always be there (or at least for a few more billion years) and the wind will continue blowing. But the question is, will the sun constantly shine or wind constantly blow on your home?
Clouds and night time can leave your panels sunbeam-less and there will be days when the wind will choose to blow elsewhere. As such, I wouldn't advise that you go completely off the grid just yet … although there are off grid home solar power systems. At least, when the Sun's not around, you can still draw energy from the grid if you use an on-grid system.
There's actually another advantage of plugging into the grid aside from having a continuous supply of electricity. In a day wherein your energy consumption is less than the supply, you can return some power to the grid. Many states (although not all) have net metering systems that automatically detect when this happens and re-align your utility account. Thus, no energy will be wasted.
Some people assume that solar panels always have to be placed on the roof. This does not necessarily hold true all the time. You may mount your solar panels on the ground, trellis, or on a pergola. Just be sure they are positioned such that there would be as little shade as possible. Zero shade would of course be ideal.
Even if only a small fraction of the home solar power module is shaded, it will have a negative effect on the total performance of the entire module. The angle will also play a huge role. If possible, position the module to face south. This will allow the device to operate at its maximum potential.
Now's the right time to install a home solar power system, while the government is very generous in giving incentives for renewable energy installations.
Want to know how solar power works? Find out here in Universe Today. We'll also tell you about the new company that looks to produce space based solar power within a decade.
There's more information behind the following links:
Space Energy, Inc.
Space Energy, Inc.'s interactive flash presentation
Tired eyes? Let your ears help you learn for a change. Here are some episodes from Astronomy Cast that just might suit your taste:
The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence
Advanced Propulsion Systems
Filed under: Astronomy
Tags: alternate energy, home solar power, renewable energy, solar panels
