Solar Electric Systems
Solar Electric Systems
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Is a solar electric system right for your home or business?
Benefits of Solar Electric Systems
How do I get started?
Where can I get more information?
Benefits of Solar Electric Systems
Solar electric systems convert the sunlight into electricity that you
can use to power your home. Solar Electric Systems (also known as
photovoltaics) provide many benefits including:
- High Reliability - Solar electric systems were first
developed for use in space where repair would be quite expensive, if
not impossible. Typical solar electric panels are quite reliable
and virtually maintenance free. Most manufacturers offer warrantees
of 20 to 25 years.
- Low Operating Costs - Solar electric cells and panels
use sunlight, which comes to us free, as fuel to create energy.
They have no moving parts which means they need little attention.
- Environmental Benefits - Solar electric systems
burn no fuel and have no moving parts so they are clean and silent.
They are safe for you and safe for our environment.
- Modularity - Systems can be sized to meet your energy
requirements. Because solar electric systems can be expensive,
your first step is to become as energy efficient as possible.
Minimizing your energy requirements allows you to size the smallest
and least costly system to meet your energy needs. If your needs
grow, you can easily add to the system. If you move, you can take
it with you.
How do I get started?
Step 1: Become as energy efficient as you can.
We have provided tips and techniques you
can employ for little or no cost and energy investments you can make to
help you become as energy efficient as possible.
Step 2: Determine your energy requirements.
To properly size a system to meet your needs, you will need to know how
much electricity you typically use. Call your utility company and ask
that they provide you with a usage summary for both kWh and therms for
the past year. If less than a year, ask for usage data for as many
months as possible.
Step3: Contact a local solar system provider.
A solar system provider can provide you with information on the different
types of solar electric systems available and the advantages of each.;
After deciding what type of system is right for you, the solar system
provider can use your usage data to size a system for you. To find a provider
near you, look in the yellow pages under "Solar Energy."
Where can I get more information?
We have provided links
to help you learn more about solar energy technologies.
Source: U.S. Department of Energy
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