Photovoltaic Solar Power: Invest in your Home and the Planet
February 18, 2010 by Jason Monsky
Filed under Home Solar, Solar Energy Facts, Solar Power Resources
Many people who are new to residential solar energy are intimidated by the seemingly technical terms like “photovoltaic,” but these things are simpler than they seem, and very easy to figure out. And once you get past the intimidation factor, solar energy will become one of your best friends.
First things first: What’s photovoltaic solar power? “Photovoltaic” in common language translates into “light energy”—or, in other words, electricity made from light. But wait, you already knew that, didn’t you? See, this stuff isn’t scary at all.
The Solar Energy Revolution
All of the solar energy facts you’ve heard are true—at least all of the good ones. When you use solar power, electricity becomes much cheaper. With some of the more advanced systems, all of your household electricity use could even be free. I bet you never imagined that happening any time soon. But thanks to technology, free energy is in our grasp.
Yes, this fact is self-evident, but it has to be said: Solar energy is better for the environment. Ever since the Industrial Revolution, people have always dreamt of finding a free, unlimited power source that never breaks down. And more recently, we’ve dreamt of finding such a power source that is not only cheap and reliable, but also sustainable.
And just like magic, here’s the sun, just sitting out there in space, practically begging to take care of all of our energy needs. In fact, when you get down to it, the sun IS free energy. It powers our very existence—not to mention the fact that it warms us and makes our crops grow. When you think about it, it was only a matter of time until we figured out how to use it for all of our other energy needs. And here we are, in the amazing 21st century. Free, reliable, environmentally sustainable power is ours.
Practical Concerns of Residential Solar Energy
Installing photovoltaic solar power in your home is quite simple. Even if you’re no energy expert, there are diy solar power kits for relatively cheap. They won’t take care of all your energy needs, but they will help take the financial load off your family. Simple systems cost anywhere between $500 and $2000, and they can be installed over the course of a weekend.
Plus, there are residential solar energy systems that can be targeted to very specific areas of your energy use. For example, you can get a diy solar system that focuses primarily on your hot water heating, which can save you around 50% on your energy bill. There are also diy solar pool heating systems, as well as diy solar power kits that you can install to power a recreational vehicle or a small outlying building on your property.
On the other hand, if price is no factor, why not call a professional and get the works? It will cost a chunk of change, but you’ll never have to worry about energy bills again, and the value of your home will go through the roof.
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