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Solar power struggles in the US
This is a good article on the current state of affairs for solar power in the US. The comments from readers shown at the bottom of the article are very interesting to read.
Small twon strives for energy independence
New technology and inventive financing has allowed this town to move toward energy independence. Innovative thought is still the key when it comes to successful use of solar power.
Tax credit for solar power off the table due to budgetary issues
In Pennsylvania the state has dropped a tax credit for solar power installation due to budgetary issues. This might be happening more for homeowners as budgets are continually squeezed.
Gulf oil blowout used as reason to push energy reform
A lot of people are using the gulf oil blow out as a reason to push for alternative energy choices. We are all for that, but our focus really should be first and foremost on fixing the immediate issue of oil spewing out into the Gulf of Mexico.
The Most Energy Efficient House in the U.S. - AZ Daily Star
Net-zero homes are few and far between, especially in Arizona where air conditioning is needed in the summer. Read about one Tuscon house that uses solar panels, solar water heaters, and energy efficient building materials. This house not only achieves net-zero status: it's also an energy producer: "In 2009 the house consumed 7,566 kilowatt hours of electricity and produced 12,154 kilowatt hours." Could this become the home of the future?
Solar Power Works in the Cloudy Northwest - Fox13
Even in a cloudy place like Washington state, solar power can work. Matt Moreno installed a $40,000 array on his roof (with the help of a loan and rebates, the cost decreased to $5,000 up front). This system collects and stores enough energy to power his entire house as well as sell some back to the grid.
Walden Pond Goes Solar - Backwoods Home
Solar expert Jeffrey Yago answers the question: how can I run a small cabin on solar power? This first article in a three-part series suggests evaluating your electricity use and alternatives to energy-hogging appliances like washing machines. While this advice focuses on a running a cabin on solar as a summer getaway, it's also a way to live a simple, off-grid life year round.
Solar Shingles Make Solar Power Better for Homeowners - USAToday
Solar manufacturers got the memo that many homeowners would prefer sleeker, less expensive solar panels. Many companies are developing "solar shingles," thin PV laminates that can be integrated into asphalt and metal roofing. At least three companies are working on these low profile solar panels as we speak, and some will be available in 2010.
Can You Live Without Oil? - CNN
A man with a mission: Patrick Vanderwyden's goal was to switch to alternative energy. Three years later, his major appliances run on solar power, and he gets around on electric bikes. He also owns a truck with an electric motor. Mr. Vanderwyden is of interest because the Gulf oil disaster is causing people to question how we should get our energy. Check out this article and its video to catch a glimpse on how a person can live using a lot less energy coming from alternative sources.
Gulf Oil Disaster Emphasizes Need for Renewable Energy - Fox Business
As the Gulf oil disaster continues, leaders in renewable energy emphasize the need for developing wind, solar, and other large scale power projects. FTA: "George Taylor, founder and chief executive of Ocean Power Technologies, which produces power using ocean waves, said technology exists to produce much of the world’s energy through safe, renewable sources."
Top 10 Resources for Solar and Wind Power Info - May 10, 2010
Solar power and wind power are both intriguing ways for us to use renewable energy that are not only good for the environment, but could supplement or even replace grid supplied electricity. Additionally, with the way things work right now, shifting to renewable energy comes with tax incentives and....
California Goes Solar - Forbes.com
While solar panels are a long way from reaching grid parity, studies show that California residents, businesses, and government entities are banging down the doors for solar. The demand comes in spite of a decrease in subsidies: the reason? Asian solar panel manufacturers are coming in to the American market offering cheaper panels. While American manufacturers still hold the #1 and #2 market shares, Chinese and Japanese companies are nudging their way up to third place.
Ways to Go Solar Without Solar Panels - May 05, 2010
When I think about solar panels, the first thing I think about is the price. Even with the tax credits and rebates, going solar isn’t something I’m able to do this minute. I’m guessing there are a lot of people out there like me who like the idea of solar but can’t right now, who are waiting to....
The Oil Spill and the Failure of Complex Systems - May 04, 2010
Complex systems work until they fail. That is what we have with the oil spill presently spewing millions of barrels of oil out into the Gulf of Mexico. Coastal drilling platforms are massive facilities. In a sense they are like small cities. The drilling from this platform starts 5,000 feet below....
Are Solar Panels Worth the Price? - ABC15.com
While the price of solar panel systems are decreasing bit by bit, even with rebates they are expensive to install. It takes anywhere from 10-15 years to break even and there are several factors to consider: does your home get enough sunlight? Will you be moving any time soon? This article makes the good point that adding a solar power system increases the value of the home by tens of thousands of dollars.
