Green Energy: Home DIY Solar Power
Source: Wikipedia
Green energy is the term used to describe sources of energy that are considered to be environmentally friendly and non-polluting, such as geothermal, wind, solar, and hydro. Sometimes nuclear power is also considered a green energy source. Green energy sources are often considered “green” because they are perceived to lower carbon emissions and create less pollution.
Solar energy deployment increased at a record pace in the United States and throughout the world in 2008, according to new industry reports. On March 19, the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) released its “2008 U.S. Solar Industry Year in Review” which found that U.S. solar energy capacity increased by 17% last year, reaching the total equivalent of 8,775 megawatts (MW). The SEIA report tallies all types of solar energy, and last year the United States installed 342 MW of solar photovoltaic (PV) electric power, 139 thermal megawatts (MWTh) of solar water heating, 762 MWTh of pool heating, and 21 MWTh of solar space heating and cooling.
Solar energy is not available at night, making energy storage an important issue in order to provide the continuous availability of energy. Both wind power and solar power are intermittent energy sources, meaning that all available output must be taken when it is available and either stored for when it can be used, or transported, over transmission lines, to where it can be used. Wind power and solar power can be complementary, in locations that experience more wind in the winter and more sun in the summer.
In recent years, we have witnessed a widespread installation of solar panels by individual homeowners. This was driven in part by growing environmental awareness, as well as the desire to reduce monthly electric bills. Most owners have avoided professional installation, and chose to install the panels themselves. High fees for professional installation may be one reason for the diy movement.
Solar panels have become more available to individual consumers. Install your own solar panels to take advantage of this wonderful source of power.
