How It Works

Renewable energy is energy derived from naturally-occurring non-depleting sources that can be constantly replenished such as solar, wind and hydroelectric power. It is energy that is environmentally-friendly or green energy since it largely involves the use of clean natural resources. Currently, the largest source of renewable energy is hydroelectric power. Hydroelectric power generation makes use of the kinetic energy of flowing water, which is used to turn turbines in order to produce electricity.

Wind power

Wind power is also a vital source of renewable energy, which involves harnessing the kinetic energy of wind currents to turn large fan-like turbines in order to produce electricity.

Solar power

Solar power on the other hand makes use of the light and heat produced by the sun as an energy source. Recently, other sources of energy have also been identified, such as plants that are being used to create bio fuels such as ethanol as an alternative to gasoline and bio gases as an alternative to natural gas. Geothermal energy is also another type of renewable energy that uses the natural heat of the earth’s core to produce power.

Solar hot water systems are one of the most economical of all solar systems. With recent improvement in design, product technology and manufacturing, your solar water heater can have a life expectancy up to 30 years. Solar hot water systems provide hot water for your home by harnessing the suns free energy.

Benefits: By adding a solar hot water system to your home, you will reduce the amount of electric power your building uses thus reducing your monthly electric bill. Depending upon the local rate structure in your area and the size of the system you install, the reduction can be up to 30% or more. More importantly, you will make an important contribution to the environment.

A Solar Photovoltaic (PV) system is made up of a series of panels which will convert sunlight into electricity. The complete solar system consists of the PV panels which convert sunlight into Direct Current (DC), and an inverter which will convert DC into Alternating Current (AC). The converted AC connects to an Electrical Sub-Panel by way of a circuit breaker.

When the PV System is producing more power than you are using within your building, the Utility Meter will begin to spin backwards which places the excess power to your Utility Grid. Per individual State Law and your local Utility, Homeowners can receive credits for every Kilowatt-Hour placed on the Grid. These credits will accumulate on your power bill to offset future energy use.

Connecting to the Grid: A PV Array System consists of PV modules typically about 170 watts each and inverter(s) which convert the DC output of the modules to AC power that is used within your building. When your system is operating, the excess power is placed on the grid.

Powering your home with the sun

Generating Power: When photons strike the surface and are absorbed by the solar cell, electrons are knocked from the atoms and are positively charged. From the solar cell, the electrical conductors are attached to the positive and negative sides, forming a circuit. The passing electrons form an electric current which is converted into power as the electrons move to the other layer.

What’s the best way to set it up?: The panels work best when oriented true south. PV panels should be inclined at an angle equal to the area’s latitude to absorb the maximum amount of solar exposure year round. Most roofs are about 20-25 degrees, which provide good results.