Despite all the talk about solar energy, it only generates a measly .1% of electricity in the US. Meanwhile, national demand for electricity is growing by 2% annually. Considering that solar technology has been in use for decades, why is it not more widespread? Cheap Fossil Fuels Even though sunlight … [continued]
If solar panels cost $1/watt, you can sell them (installation included) for $2/watt. Coal (installation included) costs $2.10/watt. To date, solar is still reaching to compete with coal, but the margins are closing. To (over)simplify how this works, you need to ignore issues like subsidies, qualitative costs, or kinks in … [continued]
One of the most common arguments against large-scale use of renewable energy is that it cannot produce a steady, reliable stream of energy, day and night. Ausra Inc. does not agree. They believe that solar thermal technology can supply over 90% of grid power, while reducing carbon emissions. … [continued]
Got a forklift, 25G, and a desire to live wherever you want? Then the PowerCube from Reluminati is for you! Actually, with its ability to deliver 600-watts of continuous energy, the weight (1 ton) and the cost are the only two negative things I can say about it. Now, if … [continued]
Many businesses are putting the sun to work for them and saving a bundle on utility bills. While much of the country is experiencing increasing energy costs, some are looking to the sun as a solution. Although nearly all solar applications will eventually save money, a large upfront investment is … [continued]
What if you could produce clean solar energy night and day, rain or shine, and never hit the bank for a single P.V. solar panel? Photo voltaic panels can be pricey, so the solar industry is always trying to lower costs and boost efficiency in the quest to compete with … [continued]
Solar thermal technology provides space heating and hot water and is a frequently forgotten member of the solar family. These highly effective systems are popular in many parts of the globe, from China to Greece to Zimbabwe. They displace the use of the existing hot water heater and heating equipment, … [continued]
John Sedgwick is the Co-founder and Vice President of Solaicx, a company that manufactures silicon ingots and wafers for solar electric (PV) panels. They are then supplied to solar panel manufacturers across the globe. Solaicx began production at their new manufacturing plant in Portland, Oregon at the end of 2007. … [continued]
Powering your home with big solar panels is expensive. Despite the long-term benefits, not all of us can fork over the cash for the initial investment. Fortunately, since the sun is such a tantalizing and constant source of energy, innovative minds have made lots of ways to harness sol’s … [continued]
When we think about “clean” energy, we envision big, dark solar panels out in a field or on a roof. Or maybe wind turbines with those big whooshing propellers. What we don’t often think about are the other components that make solar panels and other technologies possible and practical for … [continued]
