Fabdigs

Why the Time is Now for Solar in New Jersey

emleung — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 19:51:54 +0000

Though many states have been encouraging residents to power their homes with clean energy, New Jersey has been emerging as one of the most supportive. Their many programs and incentives help position the state behind only California in terms of wattage produced and number of solar installations.

To help get your solar system installation on track, up-front rebates are offered. The Renewable Energy Incentive Program has rebates available from $1.55-1.75/watt depending on what steps you have taken to meet specific efficiency requirements. If you replace your electric hot water heating system with a solar one, a $1,200 rebate is given. In addition, homeowners won’t need to pay sales tax on their solar purchase, nor face a higher property tax.

Net metering can credit your electricity bill with the extra power your system has produced, as you watch your meter run backwards! Another way to get money back on your system is to opt for the state’s SREC Registration Program (SRP). Solar Renewable Energy Certificates are issued as revenue for every 1000kWh generated by your PV system, and can be traded or sold to electricity suppliers on the Generation Attributes Tracking System.

For more details, head over to New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program website. http://www.njcleanenergy.com. A better estimate of your potential and rebates can be explained with a free quote from one of our solar installers listed in the New Jersey directory.

New Incentives for Solar Water Heaters in California

emleung — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 18:58:52 +0000

California’s intent to reduce greenhouse emissions just received another push this month with the California Solar Initiative Thermal Program.

Established by the California Public Utilities Commission, the $350 million dollar rebate program aims to promote installations of solar water heating systems, which hopes to displace up to 585 million therms.

The costs of replacing your current system with a solar one is about 25% off with this plan. This is in addition to the current 30% federal tax credit. The plan’s rebate amount depends on how many therms or kWh your system will displace. For natural gas, the average incentive can be worth up to $1,500, while the highest average electric rebate is $1,010.

Sixty percent of these funds are reserved for multifamily commercial buildings, with the other 40% for single-family homes. This program is set to last until December 31, 2017 or when funds are all used. Incentives will gradually decrease over these eight years to an average of $550. Larger rebates are more readily available to those who participate early and install their new solar water heaters.

Government Rebates Available (By State)

emleung — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 23:44:11 +0000

There are many benefits to installing a solar energy system in your home. Rebates are one of the most popular incentives! FabDigs has compiled a list of government rebates available, sorted by state, for you to peruse. See how much you could be getting back today!

Alabama

TVA – Green Power Switch Generation Partners Program

Alaska

Arizona

Arkansas

California

Colorado

Connecticut

Delaware

District of Columbia

Florida

Georgia

Hawaii

Idaho

Illinois

Indiana

Iowa

Kansas

Kentucky

Louisiana

Maine

Maryland

Massachusetts

Michigan

Alternative Energy Personal Property Tax Exemption (PDF)
Community Energy Project Grants
Energy Efficiency Grants
Interconnection Standards
Low-Income and Energy Efficiency Fund (LIEEF)
Michigan – Net Metering
Nonrefundable Business Activity Tax Credit (PDF)
Refundable Payroll Tax Credit (PDF)
Renewable Energy Renaissance Zones (PDF)
WPPI Energy – Renewable Energy Rebates (Offered by 6 Michigan Utilities)

Minnesota

Mississippi

Missouri

Montana

Nebraska

Nevada

New Hampshire

New Jersey

New Mexico

New York

North Carolina

North Dakota

Geothermal, Solar and Wind Property Exemption (PDF)
North Dakota – Net Metering
Renewable and Recycled Energy Objective
Renewable Energy Tax Credit (Corporate) (PDF)
Renewable Energy Tax Credit (Personal) (PDF)
Solar Easements

Ohio

Oklahoma

Oregon

Pennsylvania

Rhode Island

South Carolina

South Dakota

Renewable Energy Systems Exemption

Tennessee

Texas

Utah

Vermont

Virginia

Arlington County – Green Building Incentive Program
Interconnection Standards
Local Option Property Tax Exemption for Solar
TVA – Green Power Switch Generation Partners Program
Virginia – Net Metering
Voluntary Renewable Energy Portfolio Goal

Washington

West Virginia

West Virginia – Net Metering

Wisconsin

Wyoming

What To Ask Solar Installers

emleung — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 22:22:33 +0000

So you’ve done your homework, determined which solar system you want for you home (solar photovoltaic (PV) or solar thermal), estimated the costs and your return on investment, and are ready to get moving. But how do you choose a solar installer you can trust? FabDigs is your resource to finding qualified solar professionals in your area.

With this list in hand, you can then begin to query them on various subjects.

Their answers will form the grid against which you can evaluate each one individually, and in relation to one another. Here’s a list of questions you should be sure to ask:

Installation timeframe: The last thing you want is to go through all of the trouble of narrowing your options to the final choice, only to discover that the company won’t be able to do the work for you for another 8 months. So be sure to ask relatively early in the conversation whether they have a backlog of work and if not, when they’re likely to get to your project.
Professional training: The North America Board of Certified Energy Professionals (NABCEP) now certifies PV installers. Finding a professional with the NABCEP designation is a sure fire way to know you’ve got someone who knows what they’re doing, but the program is relatively new and not many have yet received the training. Other training programs have appeared in the market, but again, the number of people who’ve completed the education is still small. In the absence of such credentials, you could inquire about any other training they’ve received. For instance, some solar manufacturers provide formal classes and training for their products—installers who have taken the time to participate in these programs are likely to be committed to good work. When no formal training has been taken, ask about experience.
Length and level of experience: In the solar business, experience is just as valuable as classroom education, especially given the wide variety of possible products and installation options available to you. Many solar installers will be self-taught or apprenticed and even without credentials may be excellent service providers. To determine their level of experience, inquire how many installations have been completed by the company over how many years. A large number of installations over many years is a good indication of extensive experience. Also inquire whether they have residential or commercial experience (or both). You’ll also want to see that they’ve completed some recent installations, too. Technologies and regulations in the solar industry are constantly changing and you want your service provider to be aware of all the newest developments.
License numbers and insurance: Your state should have a contractor’s license board that you can contact to verify your prospective installer’s credentials. The board may also be able to tell you whether there have been any serious complaints about the company. In addition to their license, as to see proof of insurance—they should carry substantial liability as well as a good safety record. Where no license number or insurance papers exist, seek other contractor options!
References: Calling a list of past clients given to you by each installer is another way to check the company’s level of service and quality of products. Ask potential contractors for a list of clients with installations similar to the system you desire. Then have a short list of questions to ask when you call these individuals: Were there any problems with the install? Was the level of service was up to their expectations? Has the equipment performed well since it was installed? Have maintenance requests have been managed with professionalism?
Product brands and quality: Of course, when determining the configuration of your solar system, you want quality above price. Most importantly, you want a system that will last a long time and run as maintenance-free as possible. But you also want a solar system that’s a perfect fit for your home or business, and so variety is also important. Regardless of the number of products on offer, you’d do well to do some research into the reliability of the various components suggested by the service providers: inverter, controller, etc. In particular, check that they’re UL-certified. The Underwriters Laboratory (UL) is a nonprofit product safety testing and certification organization. They rigorously test many products, including solar components. Additionally, you can sometimes find reviews on solar products online. The Home Power magazine often reviews products on their site—check back issues as well as current content.
Payment terms: The payment terms which are right for you will largely depend on your personal financial situation, but be sure to ask so that you can weigh this aspect along with the other issues covered here.
Product warranties: Every product should come with its own warranty, which may include parts or labor, or both. Compare these figures against various other options, ensuring you’ve been offered a product with a warranty covering the greatest number of conditions for the longest period of time to protect yourself from future repair costs.
Service agreements: Many solar providers today will provide a service agreement for their work. You’ll want to ask how long they’ll provide service, what’s covered and what’s not, what you’ll be charged for repairs, and how long it will take to get problems resolved. It’s a good idea to get your solar installer to agree to a yearly system check-up, too, at least for the first few years. And if you’ve chosen an off-grid system, you’ll also want to ask whether you’ll receive training for maintaining the system (off-grid requires more work). Whether or not the company outsources the work will play into this question. If someone else is doing the electrical or the actual installation, they may not insure their work or provide service for faulty components and parts.
Get it in writing: You’ve asked all of your questions and are ready to weigh your final options, but be sure to get everything you’ve been promised in writing before making a your decision final.

Thankfully, solar installations are relatively simple and most experienced, knowledgeable solar installers will do a good job with little hassle for you. Once you’ve hired your installer, just sit back and count the hours until you’re powering your life with free, solar energy!

Residential FAQ and Answers

emleung — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:44:41 +0000

Having to make decisions on a potential solar energy system for your home is not an easy task. FabDigs provides you with some Frequently-Asked-Questions to help you with the process. 1. How much does it cost to install a solar system?

Determining the cost of a solar system requires the evaluation of many factors, including how much of your energy you want to produce (and how much you use), where you live, available incentives and rebates from the government or your utility company, and the type of system you choose. Some can cost as little as $2,500 while others will have a price tag greater than $50,000. Check out our guide to the costs of photovoltaic (PV) and thermal solar systems for more information.

2. Are there programs that could help me pay for a solar system?

Today, there are many incentives and rebates available through municipal and federal government programs. Some utility companies even offer financial help for those wishing to install clean energy generating systems. Check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (http://www.dsireusa.org/) as well as with your state’s energy office (http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/state_energy_program/seo_contacts.cfm) to find out what’s available to you.

3. What is the break-even point for a new solar system?

An estimation of the amount of time that will elapse before you’ve paid for your system in energy savings must take into consideration what product you’re using (PV or thermal) and how large the system is, the price of electricity in your area, how much sun you receive, and how much energy you consume, among other factors. That said, the break-even point can be less than five years for solar thermal systems and between five and 14 for PV systems.

4. What is the energy payback for solar systems?

Manufacturing solar panels for either thermal or PV systems requires energy. When we talk of “energy payback,” we’re referring to the time required for your solar system to produce the same amount of energy that was used to make it, which ranges between two and five years on average. Considering that most solar systems last for 20 years or more, they should generate much more energy than they consumed initially.

5. How much energy do solar systems produce and how large should my system be?

The amount of energy produced by a solar system will depend partly on the efficiency of the solar cells and the size of the overall system. Not surprisingly, the size of the system is directly dependent on how much energy your home uses on a regular basis. Discussing your energy requirements and system size with a qualified solar professional is the best way to determine the exact requirements for your solar system.

6. Do the panels need to be facing a particular direction?

It is recommended that you orient your solar system so that it faces south as best as possible. However, those installed facing east or west for aesthetic reasons still have the potential to generate a good deal of clean energy.

7. What is net metering?

By and large, urban homes with solar systems are grid-connected (grid-tied), meaning that when they produce more energy than is consumed by the home to which they are attached, the excess energy is pumped into the local utility system rather than into a battery system. Most states in the US (all but eight at this time) have what’s called a net metering program which ensures that you receive credit for any energy you add to the utility system. This means that during the day, when you produce more than you use, you build up energy credit which you can use at night by drawing energy from the local system when your solar system isn’t producing any energy at all.

If you happen to live in a state without a net metering system, your local utility isn’t required to buy back the excess power your produce. In this case, you may want to consider either 1) postponing the installation of a solar system, 3) choosing a solar thermal system, which remains cost effective even without net metering, or 2) adding a battery storage system so that you can use the excess energy you produce rather than giving free to your local utility.

8. What is the energy conversion efficiency of each type of solar system?

Energy conversion efficiency refers to your solar system’s ability to convert sunlight into energy. Most PV systems, which use silicon technology, average about 7-17 percent.

9. How long do solar systems last?

Solar systems typically last between 20 and 25 years before they require replacement, and most solar panels come with a warranty for that period of time (the rest of the system often has a 5-year warranty).

10. Why do I need an inverter?

Your home runs on alternating current, or AC power, but most PV systems generate direct current (DC) energy. In order to use the energy your system produces, you more than likely will require an inverter to convert it into a current usable by your electronics and appliances.

11. Do I need batteries?

12. Do solar systems require maintenance?

Most regions receive enough rain throughout the year to clean the panels of any dust that might collect on their surface. However, if you live in a particularly dry climate, dirt may collect on your panels, reducing their efficiency. If this is the case, a regular cleaning will keep them running at peak efficiency.

13. Do I need to install new roofing first? Do solar panels need to be roof-mounted?

Since your solar system is likely to be on your roof for 20 years or more, you want to ensure at the very least that your roof is in good condition. If your roof is structurally sound, in most cases new roofing is not required. And installing a solar system over your roofing will extend the life of your roofing since it protects it from ultraviolet light, snow, hail, and other weathering elements.

14. What happens when the panels are shaded or covered in snow?

Solar systems work best when they’re free of obstructions—be they shade or snow. Talk to a solar professional to ensure you locate your solar system where it will function most efficiently.

15. Does a solar system improve my home’s value?

Without a doubt, adding a solar system to your home will increase its value. Some estimates put the increased value at $20,000 for every $1,000 you save in energy per year.

Commercial FAQ and Answers

emleung — Sat, 09 Jan 2010 00:36:59 +0000

There are many factors that come with installing a solar energy system on your commercial property. FabDigs provides you with some Frequently-Asked-Questions to help you with the process.

1. What are the benefits of installing a solar system on my commercial property?

If you want to increase your business’s green credibility, then installing a solar system on your property is one of the best solutions. But environmental responsibility isn’t the only factor motivating businesses to choose to generate their own renewable energy. Additional benefits include:

Staying ahead of the curve: Most experts agree that the US will soon adopt some type of greenhouse gas emissions reduction policies. Those businesses that have already built carbon regulation into their strategic planning are well ahead of their competitors on this issue. By choosing a solar system now, you can turn your business into a low-carbon company and be ready when regulators finally establish carbon reduction measures.
Peak shaving: Many large buildings draw a lot of power, much of which may be consumed during peak periods (typically mid-day), which subjects your business to “Peak Use Charges.” As luck would have it, peak periods correspond to the time when photovoltaic (PV) systems have the greatest potential to produce energy. Having your own solar power system will reduce the amount of energy your building requires during peak times, which effectively shaves the charges you have to pay during high-demand periods.
Price lock-in: Though at first the per kilowatt-hour rate you pay with a solar system may be moderately higher than what you’d typically pay to your utility company, with a solar system you avoid spikes in seasonal price fluctuations as well. And after your system is paid for (depending on what percentage of your energy requirements it provides), you’ll have locked in your “free” energy rate for the life of your equipment.

2. How much does it cost to install a solar system?

Getting a total cost for a commercial solar system requires the evaluation of many factors, including how much energy you consume, what percentage of your energy you’d like to produce renewably, your local climate patterns, available incentives and rebates from the government or your utility company, and the type of system you choose. Consult our guide to estimating the cost of PVand solar thermal systems for more a more detailed sketch of potential costs.

3. What incentives and rebates exist for commercial solar systems?

Today, there are many incentives and rebates available for commercial solar installations offered through municipal and federal government programs. Some utility companies even provide financial help for companies wishing to install solar electric and solar thermal systems. Check our guide to financing your solar purchase, or consult the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (http://www.dsireusa.org/) as well as with your state’s energy office (http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/state_energy_program/seo_contacts.cfm) to find out what’s available to businesses in your area.

4. Are there financing options for purchasing a solar system?

Yes! In addition to the utility, state, and federal rebates and incentives, there are many financing options. These include:

Power purchase agreements (PPAs)
US Small Business Administration (SBA) loan programs
Lease with buy-out options offered by solar contractors
Property secured loans
Capital equipment loans
Equipment secured loans
Third party financing

While capital equipment loans are the most common, property secured loans offer great terms and low interest rates and those refinancing a commercial property should consider purchasing a solar power system. For businesses that don’t own their own property or are unable to get a property secured loan, equipment secured loans work best, though they have shorter terms and higher interest rates.

5. Will my property taxes increase?

No. The federal government has an accelerated depreciation program in place to mitigate any effects the installation of a solar system may have on your building’s value.

6. What is the break-even point for a new solar system?

Commercial solar systems typically have a payback period between 5 and 10 years, but an estimation of the return on investment must take into consideration many factors. For instance, what product you’re using (PV or thermal) and how large the system is, the price of electricity in your area, how much sun you receive, and how much energy you consume, among other things. But if you can procure good financing, you may potentially realize net savings in the first year, and instead of paying a monthly electric bill, you’ll be paying less to invest in a loan for your system.

7. Is solar electricity cost-effective?

With many financing options and a short ROI, solar is a high-return, low-risk investment. Your business will be powered by renewable energy long after the system is paid for, and you’ll be adding a valuable asset to your property.

8. What is the energy payback for solar systems?

9. How much energy do solar systems produce and how large should my system be?

The amount of energy produced by a solar system will depend partly on the efficiency of the solar cells and partly by the size of the overall system. Not surprisingly, the size of the system is directly dependent on how much energy your building uses on a regular basis. That said, commercial installations range between 10,000 watts and 100,000 watts, and since you’ll require 100 square feet of roof space to produce 1,000 watts of energy, your system will require between 1,000 and 10,000 square. However, discussing your energy requirements and system size with a qualified solar professional is the best way to determine the exact requirements for your solar PV or thermal system.

10. What is net metering?

Most solar systems installed on commercial properties are grid-tied, meaning that when they produce more energy than is consumed by the building occupants, the excess energy is pumped into the local utility system rather than into a battery system. Most states in the US (all but eight at this time) have what’s called a net metering program which ensures that you receive credit for any energy you add to the utility system. This means that during the day, when you produce more than you use, you build up energy credit which you can use at night by drawing energy from the local utility provider when your solar system isn’t producing any energy at all.

11. How long will it take to complete my solar system?

Of course, the amount of time it will take to install your solar system largely depends on the size and type of system you choose, but ranges between several weeks to several months. If your building requires retrofitting to accommodate your new system, or if special permits are required before the install can begin, the project may take longer.

12. What is the lifespan of a solar system?

Solar systems typically last between 20 and 25 years (sometimes up to 40+ years) before they require replacement, and most solar panels come with a warranty for that period of time (the rest of the system often has a 5-year warranty).

13. Do I need batteries?

Most solar systems in urban areas do not need batteries since they’re likely tied to the local utility system. This allows you to have “back-up” power from the local utility for those times when your system is not working or not able to produce sufficient energy. However, if you’re concerned about blackouts, a battery system may be a suitable option for your solar electric system.

14. Do solar systems require maintenance?

Since there are no moving parts in solar electric systems, they require very minimal maintenance, with surface cleaning being a possible consideration. Most regions receive enough rain throughout the year to clean the panels of any dust that might collect on their surface. However, if you live in a particularly dry climate, dirt may collect on your panels, reducing their efficiency. If this is the case, a regular cleaning will keep them running at peak efficiency.

15. Is my roof suitable for solar panels?

Solar systems can be installed on virtually any type of roof, as long as it is in good condition. Since your solar system is likely to be on your roof for 20 years or more, you want to ensure at the very least that your roof is sound. And remember that installing a solar system over your roofing will extend the life of your roofing since it protects it from ultraviolet light, snow, hail, and other weathering elements.

However, not all systems need to be installed on your roof. If you’ve got adequate ground space, installing them with ground mounts can work well. Where there’s too much shade at ground level, pole-mounted systems can also be installed. Some of the more advanced pole-mounted systems allow the panels to change position to follow the sun throughout the day, further increasing your energy-gathering capabilities. Of particular interest to many businesses are solar carports which allow you to collect energy in otherwise unused space, while providing shade for vehicles parked below the panels.

Financing Your Solar Energy Project

emleung — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 23:34:00 +0000

If you’re interested in installing a solar system in your home, you’re likely already familiar with the potentially high initial cost of purchasing the necessary equipment and having it set up. With bills that are sometimes in the tens of thousands, it can be a challenge to work out the solar energy financing details for your new project.

Thankfully, there are now many programs that can help you get to producing clean, renewable energy without breaking the bank. Although many require that you fill out paperwork and submit expense forms, the benefits to you will definitely outweigh the time it takes to put through the applications. Here’s a breakdown of the major options available to the average homeowner:

Incentives and rebates: Increasingly, local jurisdictions, states, and utilities are making it easier for consumers to purchase and install solar systems by offering incentives and tax breaks for solar photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal systems. To find out more about what’s available in the way of incentives and rebates in your local community, look into the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (http://www.dsireusa.org/) which is a comprehensive database of all state and utility rebates throughout the country. We also have a list of government rebates by state here.
Investment Tax Credit (ITC): Beginning in 2009, the ITC, a new bill signed by the President on October 3, 2008, will make your investment even more affordable. The ITC now allows homeowners to receive between $4,000 and $7,000 in refunds from the federal government (more than the $2,000 maximum once allowed by the federal government) for solar system purchases and installation. That’s on top of any state and utility incentives you may receive.
ENERGY STAR Financing Program: Administered by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this allows homebuyers to purchase new ENERGY STAR qualified homes with mortgages that are valued 10 to 24 percent higher than they would otherwise have qualified for. These are offered through one of three national lenders and several regional lenders. Additionally, some of the lenders in the program offer cash discounts on closing costs that reduce those fees by almost 50 percent. Check out http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=new_homes.hm_index for more information.
Energy Efficient Mortgages (EEMs): Obtain an increase on your mortgage amount through a variety of programs to receive a loan for making energy efficiency improvements on your home. Some of these programs are insured by the federal government, making them available to borrowers who wouldn’t otherwise qualify for such loans. Conventional EEMs are also available for homeowners who do not need the added security of federal insurance in order to take out a loan for a solar system purchase and installation. Get the details in our guide to EEMs.
US Small Business Administration (SBA): The SBA has several loan programs which can be used to purchase energy efficient equipment. The Loan Guaranty Program allows small businesses to use the loan funds for construction, renovation, or leasehold improvements, or the acquisition of machinery and equipment—including solar thermal equipment, PV cells, and related equipment. For more information, check out their website (http://www.sba.gov/).
Power Purchase Agreement (PPAs): Gaining popularity with businesses in California and Hawaii especially, PPAs are another way for companies to power their operations with green energy. A Solar Power Partner (SPP) is an organization that uses its own funds to build a solar array on the buildings of its clients. The client then signs a long-term agreement (often around 15 years) that allows them to purchase clean energy from the SPP. The cost of electricity is generally slightly less expensive than that they would take from the local utility, but since it’s green, they can claim all the environmental kudos without making the high initial investment in solar.

To get more information on these and other programs, take a look at the US Department of Energy’s “The Borrower’s Guide to Financing Solar Energy Systems” PDF document (http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy99osti/26242.pdf).

Solar Thermal or PV?

emleung — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 21:54:44 +0000

Solar thermal systems – Heating your water with the sun

Heating the water for your home or commercial property can add significantly to your overall energy bills. But solar thermal heating systems offer the most cost effective renewable energy money can buy. They can cut water heating bills by up to 90 percent, reduce your carbon footprint substantially, and typically pay for themselves in less than five years.

In general, there are two types of solar thermal or solar hot water systems: active and passive.

Active solar thermal water heaters

Active solar thermals systems have circulating pumps and temperature controls that move water or an antifreeze fluid through tubes that run from the outdoor solar panels to inside the home.

There are two types of active solar thermal systems: direct and indirect. Direct systems heat water by using pumps to move pressurized water through the collectors. As the temperature of the fluid increases, the pump turns on and circulates into the home where it is stored in an insulated tank until needed. They work best where the water is soft and non-acidic, and when installed on buildings and homes in climates that do not freeze for long periods of time.

Unlike direct systems, indirect thermal systems heat antifreeze fluid (usually a food-grade propylene glycol) instead of water. The fluid is heated by the collectors and as it circulates through the exchanger, it transfers the heat energy to a coil. The coil in turn transfers the heat to the water, which is then stored in an insulated water tank until required. Some indirect thermal systems include a drainback system which will ensure that the liquid in the collector loops is drained into a reservoir tank when the pumps stop to avoid freezing, making these systems especially suitable for colder climates.

Passive solar thermal water heaters

Passive solar thermal water heaters, on the other hand, do not make use of pumps and circulation tubes. There are no moving parts whatsoever. Instead, they rely on gravity and water’s tendency to naturally circulate when heated.

Here again, there are two types of systems: integral-collector storage systems and thermosyphon systems. In integral-collector storage systems, storage tanks are installed into insulated boxes that have glazed sides facing the sun. Because the storage tanks are often placed outdoors, these systems are best for locations that don’t go below freezing.

Thermosyphon systems use a system of pipes much like active solar thermal heaters, but instead of installing the collectors on the roof and the tank somewhere below it within the house, thermosyphon systems involve putting the tank above the collectors. Then, as the water warms, it rises naturally up to the tank (often located in the attic). These systems can be installed with either direct or indirect heating mechanisms much like active solar thermal systems.

Applications for solar thermal water heaters

Solar thermal systems can be installed in any climate, work even on cloudy days by using the full spectrum of the sun, and are able to provide a variety of water heating services:

• Domestic water heating: Water is heated for domestic purposes such as showering, laundry, and hand washing. Solar thermal water heaters can even help during colder times of the year, acting as a preheating system to reduce your overall water heating energy load.
• Pool and hot tub heating: Using direct, active solar technology (with some modifications to avoid scalding water in warm weather), solar pool heaters can provide a consistent 80°-85°F temperature, are very low maintenance, and work well in any area where the daytime air temperature is above 60°F. In order to provide heating through spring and fall, most solar collectors need to be 50-100 percent of the square footage of your pool. Even more panels can provide a warm swimming experience into the winter season. Costs for these systems can be between $2,000 and $10,000, and although they are often exempt from state and federal financial incentives, you may see returns on your investment in as few as 1.5 years.
• Space heating: Using either a passive or active system, instead of transferring the heat from your thermal collectors to your domestic water supply, your solar thermal heater can transfer energy to water used for radiant space heating in your home or commercial building. The heated water is stored in a large thermal collection tank connected to pipes installed under floors to provide radiant heat, which is both cozy and evenly distributed. Most systems are sized so that you have between 1 ½ to 2 gallons of water for every square foot of heated space and typically run 40 percent more efficiently than forced air heating systems. Best of all, they can be zoned to provide individual heat controls for each room, which can save even more energy.

Solar electric photovoltaic (PV) systems – Generating electricity with the sun

If clean, renewable electricity is what you’re after, than a solar photovoltaic system is what you need. PV or solar cells form the building blocks of these solar electric generators. They’re made from various types of semiconductor materials, such as silicon (the most common today), polycrystalline thin film (using copper indium diselenide (CIS) cadmium telluride (CdTe), or single-crystalline thin film (often made with gallium arsenide).

Each PV cell collects solar energy and turns it into approximately 1 to 2 watts of electrical power. That’s not much, but when many PV cells are connected together into long modules, and then those modules are interconnected into arrays, you’ve got the potential to produce a great deal of electrical energy.

But the arrays need some supporting components to turn the sun’s energy into power we can use. For that, we depend on items such as inverters to convert direct current (DV) electricity into alternating current (AC) and batteries to store the energy (optional). These components are typically wired directly into a building and sent to a dedicated breaker in the main electric panel to provide seamless, no-fuss electricity. Additional options include a charge controller (to maintain the batteries at the proper charge level and protect from overcharging), and balance of system components (such as an array combiner box, fuses, switches, cabling, circuit breakers, and meters).

Together, these components make up a whole solar PV system, which generates electricity that can be used for lighting a building, running appliances and electronics, providing electric heat, and much more. Most solar panels are mounted on south-facing structures to take full advantage of the sun’s rays.

Solar Installation Types

emleung — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 21:42:09 +0000

Think beyond your rooftop to other surfaces, and you’ve got more opportunities to install solar photovoltaic (PV) electric systems for your home. Sure, the roof-mounted solar panel systems are the most popular, but they’re not the only option for those wishing to install a solar array at home. Here’s a breakdown of the various options available to homeowners today:

Roof-mounted

The classic place for a PV system, roofs are perfect for many homeowners because they detract little from the home’s appearance and provide an unobstructed surface that’s angled, making it simple to add panels with minimal repositioning (assuming your home is south-facing, or east or west at the very least).

They’re attached directly to the structural members of the roof with aluminum or galvanized steel supports that can withstand wind loading. These installations are generally lightweight, adding on average 4 lb per square foot to the roof load.

Roof-mounted solar arrays are generally the least expensive solar electricity option available to consumers, but they do some with a few downsides. You’re limited to some degree by the position of your home and the slope of your roof. They also require work on your roof, which can be dangerous.

Pole-mounted

Although you won’t have to go to the trouble of climbing on the roof with a pole-mounted system, you will have to dig a hole in order to install your pole-mounted array. First, you need to determine the ideal location for your array, then dig a deep, narrow hole for housing your pole, which must meet specific safety criteria depending on soil types and maximum wind loads to ensure a secure installation. A tractor-mounted auger is usually required for this job.

Then you must select piping to transmit your energy to your home. The good news is that when your PV module is wired with high voltage direct current (DC), the array can exist some distance from the batteries or inverter (the wires are buried underground) without loss of transmission. Rebar and concrete finish the solid foundation.

Pole-mounted arrays have several advantages:

You’re not restricted to a rooftop, which means you can install them anywhere on your property where there’s sufficient, unobstructed sunlight.
They have greater scalability, meaning you can add or remove panels as your energy requirements change.
They can be larger than roof-mounted systems because there are fewer space restrictions.
They’re easier to access than those on the roof, often only requiring a simple ladder.
Their position is adjustable, which means they can follow the sun throughout the day to maximize your energy-collecting capacity.

Building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV)

Another installation option is building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), which are essentially integrated into your home’s structure. There are many options, with new technologies being developed all of the time. Here are a few alternatives:

Installing PVs above windows to act both as solar collectors and awnings.
Parking shades, which are PV systems that provide shelter to cars against the sun’s heat while collecting energy.
Solar shingles, which are miniature solar cells that install flush with other roofing materials to provide a less obtrusive look to your roof’s surface.
Solar curtain walls are some of the newest options in PV technology. These systems allow PV laminate to be added to a window’s glass surfaces to allow light into the building while collecting energy at the same time.

Portable solar

On a small scale, there are now many consumer products on the market which allow you to power-up fossil fuel-free. With everything from mini solar cells that energize portable electronics to backpacks that can provide energy for laptops, solar concentrators for cooking to aviation, marine, and camping equipment, there’s a lot of potential to further reduce your dependence on the conventional energy system.

All About Energy Efficient Mortgages

emleung — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 23:39:18 +0000

An energy efficient mortgage (EEM) is a way for homeowners to finance energy efficiency improvements on new or existing homes. EEMs are essentially mortgage loans that can be used to purchase and install solar photovoltaic (PV) or solar thermal systems, making it easier for you to make your home more energy efficient.

Most of these EEMs require that your home receive a Home Energy Rating (HER) rating, which is a score between 1 and 100 assigned by a professional home energy auditor. A HER measures your home’s energy efficiency, including things like insulation levels, efficiency of existing appliances and heating/cooling system, type of windows and doors installed, and more. Obtaining a HER will require an outlay of several hundred dollars, but some of the EEMs allow you to add that cost to the total loan received.

There are several kinds of EEMs available, depending on your borrowing capability, your current mortgage arrangements, and whether you meet certain additional criteria. All make it easier for you to afford the initial costs of purchasing and installing your new solar power generation system.

Federal Housing Authority (FHA): The federal government will insure loans for making energy efficiency improvements to homeowners who might otherwise be denied loans. Homeowners can add a loan valued at up to 5 percent of their home’s value to an existing mortgage for up to 100 percent of the cost of making energy efficiency improvements (provided the projected savings from the improvements is greater than the loan amount). Homeowners must submit a HER along with contractor bids and an FHA B Worksheet in order to qualify. Consult HYPERLINK “http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/eem/energy-r.cfm” http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/eem/energy-r.cfm for further details.

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Energy Efficient mortgages: The VA will insure EEMs in conjunction with VA loans for the purchase of an existing home or the refinancing of an existing loan. Homeowners can borrow up to $6,000 for energy improvements if the projected savings are greater than the increase in mortgage payments, as long as improvement costs documentation and contractor bids are submitted along with a HER. If not, then a loan of up to $3,000 is available. See HYPERLINK “http://www.homeloans.va.gov/elig2.htm” http://www.homeloans.va.gov/elig2.htm for more information.

Conventional EEMs: Homeowners are allowed to borrow up to 15 percent of the existing home’s value for energy efficiency improvements provided they are documented by a HER. Fannie Mae is one financial institution offering these loans, which are available to owner-occupied, single-family units. Freddie Mac offers EEMs for one- to four-unit dwellings and calculates the potential loan amount based on the estimated energy savings, increasing the borrower’s income by that dollar amount.

For more detailed information on EEMs and their potential to help you finance your solar energy project, check out the US Department of Energy’s “The Borrower’s Guide to Financing Solar Energy Systems” PDF document (”http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy99osti/26242.pdf”).