About Solar Energy
Fact: More sunlight falls in one hour than the Earth can use in an entire year!
Solar Energy is not a new concept. Solar energy simply means energy (light or heat) that comes from the sun, and it has been harnessed by humans since ancient times, whether for heating, making fire or cooking. It's uses are limited only by human ingenuity!
“I’d put my money on the sun and solar energy. What a source of power! I hope we don’t have to wait until oil and coal run out before we tackle that.”
~ Thomas Edison in 1931 to his friends Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone
Electric utility prices are likely to continue their rise, but making the sun your own power source will help protect you from rate hikes for 25-35 years or more. Plus, solar energy systems operate reliably for long periods of time and need virtually no maintenance. With no moving parts, visual checks and equipment servicing are sufficient to keep systems operational!
What's the difference between solar electric and solar thermal?
Solar electricity is photovoltaic (PV) energy. PV means the ability to convert light directly into electricity and using it to power appliances, computers, lights, etc., which reduces the amount of electricity you need to purchase from your power company. Solar thermal is about capturing heat from the sun and using it to heat a home and water, which reduces the amount of gas or electricity your water heater consumes. Both are excellent, viable solutions and can be utilized together or separately. We are happy to help you determine what will work best for your budget and needs.
Solar Energy Usage:
Solar energy can also be used to heat swimming pools, power cars, power lights, calculators and appliances. About 30% of our total energy consumption is used to heat water!
A simple 10-kilowatt system that could power an entire house will annually save 20,400 pounds of coal, 15,000 pounds of carbon dioxide pollution and 20,000 miles of auto driving. It’s like planting 1000 trees to absorb the CO2.
The home pictured left in Bristol, Indiana utilizes both solar PV and solar thermal for water heating.
