Advances in Solar Energy
The sun itself is virtually a limitless source of energy. Solar technology channels the power of the sun and converts it into usable energy. Solar energy is an excellent alternative to fossil fuel because it remains clean, efficient, and reusable. Although not previously thought of as a major player in the U.S. energy marketplace, solar power, along with wind power, is quickly becoming an obvious and available resource that simply can’t be ignored. Alternative energy sources and green technology is up and coming, although the world is a long way from replacing fossil fuels, people may be able to enjoy lower electric bills in the meantime. However, with such relied upon supplies diminishing, and solar power becoming increasingly more advanced every year, there is a good chance it may eventually replace oil as the world’s main energy source. As of today, numerous homes and even commercial buildings have made the switch over to solar power. One main reason why people are reluctant to utilize solar power in their homes is because of the obtrusive solar panels that must be installed on one’s roof. Fortunately, as solar power is evolving and slowly but surely becoming more mainstream, the design of such panels is changing to match the look of typical roofing shingles.
Primarily used to help heat homes, solar power is also an efficient way to produce electricity. Efforts to design and construct devices for supplying renewable energy began during the Industrial Revolution. However, at that time, there was an unfounded promise of boundless supplies of fossil fuels. About 140 years later, the demand of inexhaustible resources turns attention toward renewable energy. Solar photovoltaic technology, or PV, uses environmentally friendly solar energy to produce electricity. A photovoltaic system is connected to a home’s power distribution network. PV systems are all grid tied because they draw power as needed from the local utility to supplement the solar energy.
Converting one’s home to solar power is costly and remains a significant drawback for homeowners across the U.S. Solar panels, solar water heaters, and other equipment required for installation is expensive. However, many states are beginning to offer substantial rebates for those homeowners who do go solar. State, Federal, and utility incentives are available to reduce the cost of solar energy for homes. As solar technology evolves and advances, solar products will subsequently reduce in price. July 2009 in Beijing, China Huadian Group (CHG), one of the nation’s top power producers, announced that it would join forces with Wuxi Suntech Power Co. (WSP) and begin work in the solar energy field. This move is significant because within the next three years, both parties are now slated to create solar energy products with immense power generation capacities. In the near future, battery modules and technical services will be offered to the public there. It’s only a matter of time before such technology makes it over to the U.S.
Publish Date: 2009-07-28 10:58:20
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