Residential solar kits have found their niche with energy costs and demand for sources of efficient, green energy on the rise. Several manufacturers of solar power systems, such as Kyocera and First Solar, have found a growing demand for residential installations. Solar technology is continually advancing, becoming cheaper and more efficient, and home solar kits are becoming more readily available and affordable.
Residential solar kits can range from small, complementary systems designed to reduce energy costs, to larger systems that include greater power output and storage capacity. Generators can be added to automatically switch power on and off as the need arises. Homeowners can choose to supply power to a specific area of their home, perhaps a garage or small workshop, or to invest in a larger kit that could power an entire house. Solar kits can also be used as charging stations for electric or hybrid vehicles, essentially eliminating the owners' carbon footprint.
The main advantage of the residential solar kit is its convenience and ease-of-use. Generally, a kit includes all of the essential equipment to suit the user's specific needs. The typical residential solar kit includes a set of PV (photovoltaic) panels, power inverter, charge controller and battery, although individual kits vary. The appropriate kit will vary depending on budget, space, power needs, and sun light available to be converted into electricity. The grid-tie inverter is needed to change the DC electricity from the panels into the AC electricity we use in our homes. This is then stored in the battery, so the system can supply energy in times of low light. Wiring to connect the entire system is also often included. Solar kits, after installation, are usually expandable, additional or more efficient panels and larger batteries can be integrated as desired. Generators can also be added, switching on when battery power is low, making it possible to power homes away from the commercial power grid.
When considering the installation of a solar kit, it is important to take into account energy requirements and personal budget. Only individuals who are experienced in working with electrical systems should attempt self-installation. As with any use of outside labor, it is recommended to obtain multiple quotes, preferably those with previous solar installation experience.
The benefits of installing a solar kit are many. In the US, tax-breaks, grants, and incentives can lower base costs dramatically. From those of us trying to do our part in reducing pollution and erasing our carbon footprint, to those that simply need to chip away at some expenses, solar energy is an exciting solution.
Autor: Edmund E. Taylor
Edmund E. Taylor has researched and writes on a number of topics including solar energy, the green movement, renewable resources and recycling. His background is in teaching and higher education. For more of Edmund's articles on green energy, please visit PV Power, a supplier of residential and commercial solar power information.
Added: June 15, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/
Posts
0 Comments:
Post a Comment