Residential solar energy usage is nothing new. It was being used for centuries in one form or another, but has been relegated to the background for the last few hundred years. With advancements in technology it is again making a comeback.

Ancient builders may not have had catch phrases for solar energy production, but they did build in such a way as to take full advantage of it. The built in compact proportions, used overhangs, made insulations, and oriented the buildings in relative position to the sun. They also built in such a way that airflow was directed through the structures, creating well light, well ventilated spaces. Ever since humanity started building homes we have been influenced by sunlight. Even when you view the urban planning of the Ancient Chinese and Greeks you will see the orientation of the buildings directed as much as is possible towards where they could capture the most sunlight.

As conventional energy sources have become more expensive, homeowners are once again turning to the sun to meet their energy requirements. Solar cell technology has been developing since the 1950's and now has reached very efficient production levels with the newest designs.

Though solar energy is technically free, the equipment required to harness it and convert it into a usable energy source is not. Solar cells are grouped together into modules - called solar panels. These are mounted on rooftops, yards, and other open spaces to maximise the amount of sunlight that they can capture.

Most solar panels are installed facing south in order to maximise the exposure to sunlight. Tracking systems are also used in order to follow the direction of the sun. When the panels are hit by sunlight electrons in them speed up, which creates electricity.

Pumps are usually used in order to store the power. They circulate water in the cells, which then goes into a storage tank. Sometimes gravity is utilized in just the same manner to store the heated water in the storage tanks. This power is then stored until it's ready for use.

Currently this method of production usually, at best, only fulfills about 80% of the average household energy requirements. Because of this most homes will need to be augmented by a conventional power supply as well. Many people still feel that this is a good starting point. Most homeowners agree that the installation costs are justified when compared to the price, both monetary and environmentally, for conventional electrical power production.

Technology for solar energy has been undergoing rapid development recently. Experts are confident that powering your home entirely through solar methods will be widely available.

Arianna Silverstone has only just begun to bring her passion for environmentally friendly options to the web. For more information on your renewable energy options, and tips on what you can do please visit her at her Squidoo lense and stop by her blog for more tips from enviro momma

Arianna Silverstone
May 18 2009

Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Arianna_Silverstone

 ↑ Back to Top

Incidentally, if you buy a product from one of the links on this page, I will be paid a small commission for your purchase :).  Editor

Return to main Articles List