The Future of Solar
The Future Of Solar
Now that solar power is getting more popular as energy costs go up and the future of our planet seems clear if we take no action, many are asking “what advances in solar energy are being investigated and tested?” No one wants to go out and drop a bundle of cash on solar power if they think that there is something around the corner that is going to significantly change the cost of efficiency, so we though we would show you just what is coming down the pipe:
Solar Windows
While many people struggle to find adequate space for their solar panels, a few companies are investigating the use of transparent solar cells that can be used as a window, while at the same time generating energy for the home. It is hoped that by incorporating solar windows into energy-efficient new homes that energy costs could be reduced by 50% or more, even allowing homeowners to sell excess energy back to the electric company when they have excess amounts. The technology is hoping to be available in a few years, and could lead to great reductions in coal-fired electricity usage, especially if incorporated into new office buildings.
Cheaper Panels
Up until now the major put-off for most consumers wishing to convert to solar energy was the cost of the system, which worked out to approximately $0.20 to $0.30 per Kilowatt-Hour (kwh). Companies are trying to make use of new materials and technologies to lower the cost so that it is more reasonable.
One company in the Silicon Valley says that it will be ready in mid-2009 to start producing photovoltaic panels that lower the cost to about $0.07 per kwh – roughly the same cost of regular, coal-fired electricity. They are accomplishing this feat by using lenses that magnify sunlight up to 2,000 times, so that a smaller panel can produce more power.
Whether these panel make it to a consumer market no one is sure, but there are many other companies promising to lower the cost of solar power to about $0.10 per kwh by 2010.
Silicon Surplus
Crystalline silicon is a major component of most photovoltaic panels, so the cost of this substance greatly affects the cost of converting to solar power. About 5 years ago, before the solar-power craze really began the cost of one kilogram of silicon was $25. As oil prices began to rise, so did the demand for alternatives, and now the price of silicon is about $400 per kilogram – yikes!!
Fortunately, many companies locked in long-term contracts with their providers for about $50-$70 per kilogram so the cost of solar power hasn’t gone through the roof. At the same time companies that produce silicon are ramping up their manufacturing output so that by 2010 there should be ample supply, even a surplus of silicon that will knock prices down to a reasonable level, thus lowering the cost of solar power.
Government Support
With mounting public pressure about the status of our environment, more and more government programs are being developed to encourage home and business owners to convert at least part of their energy usage to solar. Tax credits, grants, loans and refunds are all part of a larger incentive program which may or may not be available where you are. With some internet research you may be able to find some financial assistance at the state and federal level to help you get on board with solar.
Regardless of what you hear from oil companies and the like, solar power is the future, and hopefully it will come sooner rather than later. We can no longer afford to sit on our haunches and wait for a quick and easy solution to combat rising oil prices and global warming, and with the future of solar power looking sunnier than ever we will all be able to make the switch with a lower upfront investment.
Flexible Solar Panel
Also known as ‘thin-film’ solar panels, flexible solar panels are becoming the new norm in residential solar power systems. These panels are more economical and durable than their predecessors, and have the added advantage of increase portability, making them great for movers and shakers…[read more]
Off Grid Homes
Whether you live in a remote area, or just want to be responsible for your own energy production, you can certainly accomplish having fully functioning power with an off grid home. These types of homes have no conventional power line connection, they create all of their own energy themselves. Not only are these types of homes perfect for those who like to maintain their privacy, they also are a great way to show the world how you feel about our consumption of fossil fuels…[read more]
Solar Home Heating
Up to 70% of a household’s energy is used to heat a home’s space and water, so it isn’t a surprise that so many homeowners’ are trying to find alternative ways to heat their homes at a lesser cost. Not only is heating your home with solar power a great way to save money on heating costs, it is an environmentally responsible choice as it cuts down on the use of fossil fuels to heat the home…[read more]
