Ups and Downs to Renewable Energy Sources

Environmental and conservation issues are topics that are still going strong these days, with news of global warming, climate change, and dwindling resources practically everywhere we turn. It's all too simple to laud renewable energy sources just because they are. After all, if you can decrease your carbon footprint by lessening carbon emissions, that's a good thing – right?

As with many other things, though, there are both advantages and disadvantages to renewable energy. Whether you're dealing with off grid solar panels, dams, or gargantuan windmills, let's take peek at the difficulties you could – rather, will encounter.

1. Wind power. The list of pros is good, really. It doesn't produce greenhouse gases and other pollutants, and it can be come in handy in isolated, rural areas. The turbine itself would take up only a small area so the land around it can still be used – good news in farming areas.

However, the electricity produced depends entirely on the supply of the source, so if there's     very little to no wind, no electricity is generated. Windmills or wind turbines can also be     quite noisy – a definite drawback for people who like things quiet.

2. Hydroelectricity. There are two methods to produce this kind of electricity, with the first one relying on the movement of the tides. The other method, used in places that that are far removed from the deep ocean, involves dams being built. Outright, the advantages to this source are regular electricity production, and the durability of the dams.

However, the initial cost of building the dam is quite high, so it would have to operate for a     very long time for it to turn a profit. The construction could also alter the natural water table     level and shift the course of a steady water supply. The side effects this could have on     surrounding areas, especially for plant and wildlife, even varies from place to place.

3. Solar power. One could argue that any renewable energy we have is thanks to solar power. Like other renewable sources, solar power doesn't produce any pollution. Solar panels don't have that many wires or cords to worry about, and little maintenance is needed.

However, main drawbacks include the initial cost of having solar panels Rockhampton installed, and the efficiency, not to mention the weather – no sun, no electricity, after all.

Easy Ways to Save Money and Energy – Go Natural!

 

Everyone wants to save energy – if not to help the planet, then to save on cash. After all, the less you pay for your electricity bill, the more funds you have to go around for other matters. One way to do this is to use renewable energy, such as solar energy or wind energy. In fact, a large number of homes already have some form of renewable power installed.

However, the prices you'd have to pay outright can be a shock, and not everyone can afford solar panels Rockhampton right off the bat. There are ways to cut down on your energy consumption, though, so that you can afford that installation in the future.

1. Get energy efficient light bulbs. Not only do they help you shave a certain amount off your electricity bill, they also last longer so that you don't have to replace them often – saving more cash. They may be more expensive compared to standard light bulbs, but the possible savings will more than make up for that.

2. Turn off appliances when they're not in use and, if possible, unplug them. You can save up to 25% more energy if you do this, since even when not being used, appliances eat up energy. Turning lights off in rooms that aren't used will have have a similar effect, if only saving you less energy.

3. Insulate your home. When well insulated, a home uses up less energy when it needs to be heated or cooled, therefore saving you both energy and money. Changing out old windows and doors for more energy efficient models can help.

4. Water conservation is part of energy conservation, so don't forget to check your plumbing for leaks and the like. Keep the tap off when brushing your teeth instead of letting the water run, and re-use water where possible.

5. Open the blinds or curtains and make use of solar power in Rockhampton during the daytime. Not turning your lights on until late afternoon and evening can help slash your energy bill even more. Plus, sunlight is good for you anyway, so you're hitting two birds with one stone.

Not Enough Solar Batteries Gladstone and Other Storage Problems

 Video from: The Power Shop

Storage. Some would love to have more of it, others don't know what to do with it. Filing something away, or putting a box in a spare room – any way of setting something aside is a method of storage.

It isn't just physical storage, either. It could be for energy, such as solar batteries Gladstone to store (what else?) excess solar power – or the lack of such batteries. It could also be in digital form, like someone posting vacation photos to Facebook.

All told, finding a place to archive or set aside something brings with it its own brand of problems, each one unique to the circumstances. Here's a quick look.

1. Digital storage. When you think about it, the amount of data that's stored on the Web or in the 'cloud' is staggering. Millions, if not billions, of people posting photos, chronicling their lives one tweet at a time, posting journals.

While it means you don't have a huge box of photo albums or journals cluttering up your house, as technology advances, you could lose access to all those unless you backed them up somehow.  Let's face it – the amount of stuff you have on the Web would take days, maybe even months, to print out. You'd give your home printer a run for its money.

2. Email storage. Whether it's your own personal inbox, or the small business server your office uses to keep everything running, eventually, that inbox is going to overflow. Even starting a new email account won't stem the flow for very long.

3. Long-term storage. Some places have storage lockers that people can rent out for at least a month, and they can hold anything. However, if storage space is far from home, you're not likely to check it if something goes missing. You might even forget what exactly you'd stored in the locker.

Another problem with renting long-term storage lockers is when you forget to pay the rent for a set number of months (in California, it's usually 3 months). When that happens, an auctioneer can sell your stuff to pawn shop or antique shop owners.

What they earn from your locker's contents might not be enough to pay for, say, camping solar panels Rockhampton, but at least they earned something off of it – and you didn't.

Solar Power in Emerald and Other Renewable Energy Sources: The Real Problem

 Energy conservation. Besides 'going green', that's been a buzzword for several years now, especially since such incidents as the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010. These threats to the environment had, predictably, caused people all over to raise their voices and call for a shift to renewable energy.

However, despite all that cash poured into developing such sources, we're nowhere near being almost totally reliant on renewable energy – globally, at least. For instance, solar power in Rockhampton, Australia, is currently stagnant, if not declining. Why? It's all thanks to conventional sources (like coal) all but barring the building of new solar farms.

It's not just because of legislation from the 'competition', though. Renewable energy has both pros and cons, and these have a hand in delaying the development. Let's take a look:

1. Pro: It benefits the environment. Renewable sources don't deplete the Earth's resources and results in little to no greenhouse gas emissions, dramatically reducing air pollution overall.

2. Con: Large quantities are difficult to produce. No facilities producing renewable energy have yet to be able to answer the high energy demands of a certain area. In order to answer the power demands, we either need more facilities, or we need to drop our energy usage.

3. Pro: It has economic benefits. Renewable energy is cheaper compared to other ways of generating energy, and it has the potential to create job stability for thousands.

4. Con: The upfront cost can be daunting. Even if there will be savings over the years, the initial investment is expensive, especially when power plants are concerned. That's not including the planning, implementation, and the maintenance expenses, too.

5. Pro: It's reliable. Fossil fuels is running out, however slowly, leading to a rise in costs for all those connected to it. Unlike a shortage of fossil fuel, though, renewable energy won't affect an entire region if weather disruption and the like will impede production in one area.

6. Con: The supply itself isn't too reliable. Rain, wind, and sunshine aren't completely predictable. This means that solar power systems Gladstone, say, may produce a lot of electricity one day, and produce too little the next. It won't matter how efficient the equipment, if the supply isn't stable. 

Companies Contributing to Cutting Energy Costs on Us and the Ecosystem

It can't be said enough: we only have one Earth, and the more resources we use, the less there'll be for future generations. We're already seeing the effects of overconsumption – global warming, climate change, and many others that have been buzzwords for the past year or so.

That said, companies who are doing their part to help conserve energy, say, through investing in development of more efficient off grid solar systems in Gladstone or elsewhere. However they go about it, they can pave the way to a cleaner, greener future, one step at a time. 

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Here are a few who've gone into energy efficiency as a way to lower emissions and all that bad stuff.

1. BuildingIQ – This company based in San Francisco helped save $700,000 worth of energy. It's also helped a hospital in Australia to cut its energy consumption by 20% - a considerable feat, given that said building measures more than 400,000 square feet.

2. Google – There seems to be nothing this company hasn't tried, and several of its attempts to tackle climate and energy concerns have been quite successful. There's its energy-efficient data centres, and its purchases of renewable energy to offset its carbon footprint.

3. Starbucks – In 2013, the company was able to purchase renewable energy certificates (RECs) equal to a little under 55% of electricity used in global stores. They've also started implementing energy-saving measures in many of their branches. Not to mention they re-evaluate such measures to account for their usage.

4. Cenergistic – Operating for nearly 30 years, this company has developed energy conservation techniques and programs for their clients. They aim to help their clients change how they view and use energy, as well as cut costs by not using more power than they need.

5. AGL – An integrated energy company based in Australia, this firm owns and develops several renewable energy sources, with a wide power generation portfolio. It sources energy through such methods as landfill gas in Tasmania.

Since they also make it a point to help companies reduce energy consumption, they also offer services aimed towards that, such as electrical contracting Emerald.

A Who's Who for 5 Renewable Energy Sources

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Sustainable energy, also called renewable energy, has been one of the ongoing concerns in the past several years.

Since the world's conventional energy sources of coal, oil, and natural gas aren't inexhaustible, they're bound to run out. Countries are now finding alternative sources, so they can be eco-friendly. From wind turbines to off grid solar panels, which countries are leading the pack?

1. Bio-energy. Also known as bio-fuel, this energy is derived from wood, bio-ethanol, and biogas. The USA is ahead of the group here, with equal to at least 25 million tons of oil produced. Other companies doing just as well here are Germany, Argentina, Brazil and France.

2. Geothermal energy. Heat generated beneath the Earth's crust is used to produce electricity, so it has a low amount of carbon emissions.  Once again, the United States snags first place, with more than 3,000 mega-watts produced.

Development in other countries also in the running, such as the Philippines, Mexico, Indonesia, and Italy may make the US lose its place in the near future, though.

3. Hydroelectricity. The name is self-explanatory, as it's power taken from the movement of water, whether it's a moving body of water like the sea, or a reservoir, like a dam. China pulls ahead with more than 160 million tons of oil equivalent produced. Canada, America, Brazil, and Russia are right behind it.

4. Wind power. A resource that emits no greenhouse gasses at all, wind power can be used to generate just under half of a country's electricity needs, if it has enough wide-open space. According to the World Wind Energy Association, China has picked up its generation and use of wind power, with around 68 gigawatts' capacity.

5. Solar energy. In the first place, there'd be no wind, or bio-fuel, without the sun, since solar energy helps drive the winds and helps crops grow. But that's behind the point. When operating, photo-voltaic (PV) panels emit no greenhouse gases. The more efficient panels usually see more power generated. 

Germany is in the lead, where solar power is concerned, with more than 32 mega-watts of installed PV panels. Solar power in Australia is also in the running, along with Japan, Italy, and the United States. 

Solar Power and Other Renewable Energy Sources: 3 Ways to Introduce Them to Kids

With 'renewable energy' and 'conservation' being two common buzzwords these days, you'll want to make sure your kids understand the concepts. Teaching kids about renewable energy can be a bit tricky, though. There are terms better left until their older, for instance. Or they might not be able to picture what you're describing. 

Good thing there are ways to show them how these energy sources work, like how a water wheel can provide lifting power. Or how coloured paper can affect heat absorption, rather like off grid solar panels used to heat water. Here are a few examples.

• Wind. Making a pin wheel is the easiest activity. Using a square sheet of paper of any size, a pair of scissors, thin dowel, and a pin, you can show little ones how a wind turbine works. Just be sure to help the littlest ones when cutting the paper, and later attaching the wheel to the dowel.

• Water. Use a 2-litre plastic bottle, a small dowel, string, a small weight, and two corks, plus scissors - so keep a close eye on the kids. Cut the blades of the water wheel – 8 of them – from the upper half of the plastic bottle, and fill the bottom half with water. 

Cut lengthwise slits along one of the corks, and attach the end of the string to the other one, making sure the other end of the string is weighted. Stick each plastic strip in the cork so they all curve in the same direction.

Set your water wheel so one of the blades touches the water, and put it under the tap. Have the kids guess if the wheel can reel in the weight.

• Solar. Use a craft knife to cut a flap out of the top of a box, about 2cm from each side; fold the flap back and hold it open with some string and tape. Line the bottom of the box with black construction paper, and line the inside of the flap with the aluminium foil. Use folded newspapers to line the sides of the box for insulation.

This set up should give your kids a rough idea how solar panels Rockhampton work. Stick, say, a Pop Tart inside, on a clean plate or pie tin, and wait for it to warm. It'll be like you stuck it in the toaster.  

Time To Switch To Solar Power

Some people are starting to learn from their mistakes, as far as energy conservation is concerned. Where the main electricity is not available mostly in remote areas, or if it is yet, comes with a prohibitive cost, solar power has become the best option.

It's safer, because there are no emissions, and cheaper because of the savings you get from reduced energy usage. That's why many home owners now have off grid solar panels installed on their roofs. In this modern world of ours today, living in far-flung areas means no more deprivation of the little comforts in life.

How Remote Power Generation Systems Work

Ever wonder how this thing functions? Solar as well as wind power have seen major improvements over the years since such were discovered, thanks to the advancements of off grid technology! The betterment have made the systems cheaper and more efficient than ever.

An off grid power system works this way:

•    As the sun shines on solar panels, DC electricity is created.

•    Electricity is then fed into a regulator, the one responsible for controlling the amount of charge.

•    Next comes the charging of deep cycle batteries

•    The current is routed through an inverter where it is converted to 240V 50Hz AC electricity. You can now use your 12 volt appliances since this power is suitable for most standard home equipment. 

Installation of the Solar Power System

Installing an off grid solar system can be easy but, if you're not sure of your capability, don't hesitate to engage the expertise of accredited installers. Should you pursue installing your own system, bear in mind that the glass face of the solar panel module should be positioned at 90 degrees towards the sun for most of the day.

Likewise, consult the installer if you want to determine the optimum angle that's best for your location. Of course, before anything else, you have to know what system is suitable for your own needs and requirement. The area where you live is of utmost consideration. For your peace of mind, most solar power companies offer a no-obligation quote or advice.

You'll be glad to know that the government now offers incentives for homes using renewable energy like the solar power in Australia. Switch now to green energy, save costs and live healthy!

3 Quick and Easy Ways to Conserve Energy

The issues of pollution and conservation have been around for a long time now. In recent years, new technologies have been produced and refined in this regard. Most, however, are usually geared towards tapping into renewable energy.

That's all well and good, of course – it's understandable to want the best solar panels Australia installed on your rooftop system. There are other ways to conserve energy besides use renewable sources, although a few may be easier said than done. Still, in the long run, they'll definitely help.

Here are a few small changes you can make in your everyday life to mitigate pollution while saving on energy costs.

1. Switch to fluorescent. If you haven't already, replace your incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent ones, which use less energy and last longer. You may soon find it hard to buy the former, in any case. A few countries – Canada and Australia, for instance – have banned the selling of incandescent bulbs since around 2010, and others may follow their example.

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2. Walk. Yes, that tip again. Unless you live in a compact community, walking to work can really seem challenging, and perhaps off-putting. Who wants to show up at the office all sweaty? One alternative is to ride the bicycle to work instead.

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If you have an hour-long commute or longer, though, you can take public transportation then get off at the stop near your workplace. Or see which of your co-workers lives in the same area, and carpool; each of you takes turns driving for the others to and from work.

3. Replace or repair door seals. At least, the ones on your refrigerator door. If they're loose or damaged, they prevent the door from closing properly. That, in turn, causes cold air to leak into your surroundings, and makes your fridge work harder to keep everything cold.

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When it comes to energy conservation, nothing's too small, so don't just leave it to solar power in Australia, or hydroelectricity in China. Whether it's done daily such as walking to work, or a one-time thing such as applying reflective coating on your roof, everything you do definitely matters.

3 Amazing Solar Panels For Your Home

Seeking ways to conserve energy is a noble endeavour for any individual. Caring for the environment is not only about picketing and getting the message across multi-media platforms, it also greatly includes starting the change in one's home.

With all the choices for alternative energy today, one can only have too much option. Geo-thermal energy is a moot point unless your house is near a hot spring. Biomass is also another moot point because it's another world altogether. The sun and the wind are the likely choices. Solar power in Australia is one possible and feasible candidate.

Wind power however, is dependent on how strong the winds in a particular area and will it generate enough power to convert energy. The choice then, is resorting to solar power.

Solar power may be the most applicable type of alternative energy for any home or business undertaking. The sun, even when cloudy or raining, is still radiating heat throughout the day, and therefore, a potent source of power.


When you decide that a solar panel in your home or office is long overdue, the next step to take on is to choose what type of solar panels you're going to install. Here is a list of what to expect from the different types of solar panels:

Solar Panel with regular photovoltaic cells

The heart of any solar panel is its photovoltaic cells. There are many types of photovoltaic cells, but the regular ones usually do the trick for residential usage. This type is commonly installed on roofs, converting sun power at least 12 hours of the day.

Mounted Solar Array

Solar arrays can be mounted on walls or on the sides of a house or a building. Solar arrays are positively more powerful than a single solar panel or two, as they can generate at least 10 to 15 percent of the electrical usage of a household.

Off Grid Solar Panels

Off grid solar panels are those that are free-range. They can be attached or installed anywhere – on the roof, mounted on the ground, on the walls and even just laid down on the garden. These types of solar panels are extremely durable and long lasting. They are also decent converters of solar energy.

Regardless of your choice, whether it's the regular type or the off grid solar panels, there are two things certain – your power bill will surely decrease and you're preserving Mother Nature.

5 Stunning Do-It-Yourself Solar Power Projects

 

I know you've heard solar power's remarkable contributions to humankind. You've already learned the various advantages of using it in our daily lives. Probably, a solar panel is the greatest invention within the context of solar power domain. Are there something else?

Yes, there are. I visited one of my colleagues in Sydney for the purpose of studying solar power in Australia. To my surprise, I've discovered a guy who has this incredible ideas of building things using a solar power. I call him the “solar power guy!”

Here are 5 of his projects.  Try them out, who knows!

1. Solar Water Heater

You must be great at electrical wiring, pipes, PV panel installation, solder joints, copper tube cutting if you want to install a solar water heater. Plus, you have to be patient and really determined.  In other words, installing a solar water heater is something that requires passion and special skills.

2. Solar Attic Vent Fan

This project is absolutely great. In contrast to the solar water heater project, you'll  get to do a little bit of everything with this vent fan. You can install it in a day or so, depending on how complex your attic framework is. Don't forget to use the exact materials for this.

3. Solar Oven

If ever you don't know, an oven powered by solar is indeed possible. With just little knowledge of a regular oven's mechanism, you're on your way to constructing your own.  In case you don't know, you can even design and create an “auto tracker” to track the sun over the span of the day!

4. Drinking Water Purifier

You can make your own small or even big purifier with drippers, valves and various kinds of features. In fact, you can actually refine a gallon of water a day, a thousand even, with your own project. Hence, if you're into getting everything for free, hold this!

5. Off-grid Reading Light

An example of this is a camping light. Attach a small PV panel and a tiny pod containing a rechargeable battery, few LED's, switch, and a light sensor. Make sure it's durable enough to be hung. Be aware that it will be hung over your favourite reading place!

Surprise!

If you think off grid solar panels are for roofs only, forget it.  Why don't you try one of these things. You can share them to your friends as well. Let it be!

3 Common Myths About LED Lighting

It cannot be denied that solar energy is now making waves in different parts of the globe, more so in highly developed nations. Countries like USA, UK, Canada, Australia and the likes, have pursued for the advocacy of using this renewable source.

Solar power systems Australia, like any other renewable source, is definitely a clean source of power. This means no emission, therefore there is zero pollution. Completely and dramatically cleaner, solar power can energise an entire country.

Using this type of energy source emerged various products that are said to make peoples' lives greener and healthier. One of the more popular products are the solar powered LED (short for Light Emitting Diode) lamps/lights. Since these are new inventions, naturally, all sorts of myths surrounding them arise.

3 Common Myths About LED Lighting

1. LED lamps have low energy and therefore, take time to reach peak brightness.

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Fact: LEDS don't work the same way as the traditional fluorescent tubes and other energy saving bulbs. The former do exude full brightness once they are switched on. This is because they don't contain mercury. On the other hand, the traditional lights depend on heating up this hazardous chemical which turns into gas as the heat rises. So, if you use LED lamps, you're actually reducing pollution by not having to use mercury.

2. LEDs contain toxic components.

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Fact: Manufacturers assure the consuming public that LEDs are totally hazard free, and further, are recyclable. Many don't know that LEDs contain more than 70% aluminium, the reason why metal recycling facilities readily take them in. Contrarily, it's the Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL) that contain mercury, a toxic material that can contaminate lakes and kill aquamarine creatures. To properly dispose of, they have to go to hazardous waste facilities. 

3. Being a novelty, LED technology is costly.

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Fact: Studies have shown that the cost of bulb replacement, maintenance, and electricity usage will be definitely lower when calculated over time. True, the cost may seem outrageous at the instant, with your initial investment on high quality LEDs. In the long run, LEDS will pay for themselves, say in 4 to 5 years time.

Bottom line is, the more you use solar powered LED lights in your home or business, the more you contribute to a greener environment. So, start using LEDs and off grid solar panels today.

Solar Power in Johnny Depp's MYSTERIOUS Island

“Did everyone see that? Because I will not be doing it again.”  – Jack Sparrow, taken from one of his dialogue lines in his movie, Pirates of the Caribbean.

Who hasn't heard of Jack Sparrow? He's one of the characters of the said film series played by no other than the famous world-class actor, Johnny Depp!

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Honestly, I'm not that interested in actors but my brother is. It's he who's interested in off grid solar panels. What intrigues him? Because he heard that the actor's private island will be powered by solar energy!

Before that, read this first.

Facts about the Island:

It's named Little Hall's Pond Cay and located in the Bahamas. It has no lesser than six beach resorts, and all have their own names. One beach is called “Gonzo” as a tribute to one of America's most phenomenal author, Hunter S. Thompson.

"Depp purchased the island because he was looking for privacy," said Carlos Greer, People magazine reporter, “for a whooping $ 3,000,000 some time ago.” Greer also added that Depp is absolutely fascinated with the island, enjoys snorkeling and considers it as an “escape place.”

Is the island powered by SOLAR Energy?

Since there are no power systems in his property, Depp had to contrive to produce power for his incredibly luxurious home. Hence, solar energy became a major option.  Ironically, he's against diesel generators!

It was the famous Mike Strizki who appealed for aid in forging a system that produces energy. The result is a unique system that can store excess solar energy as hydrogen for use at night time or on cloudy days. This is a very rare thing in the Bahamas!

What's my brother's opinion?

Unfortunately, my brother was very disappointed with the idea because according to him, it is vastly inefficient. He believes that hydrogen gas is very dangerous for energy storage in small areas unless it's well compressed.

Plus, Strizki uses propane tanks to reduce expenses. The result is, 10 thousand gallons of propane is needed to be able to store enough hydrogen, which will brighten up the island at night!

Anyway, I know my brother has a very high standard when it comes to solar power. I think this is after he has witnessed the reliability of solar power systems Australia. The question now is, “Does the island have sufficient energy to power Depp's property?” Perhaps, it would be better to ask him.

3 Encouraging Facts About The Solar Power Industry

With issues like climate change and melting polar ice caps dominating our headlines today,  countless people are beginning to worry about the state of the planet (and the state of their pockets too). Hence, the move towards being environment-friendly is also making the solar power industry booming. Here are a couple of encouraging facts about the global solar  industry’s current state. 

1. Governments Are Slowly Cutting Their Dependence on Coal

As many people are shunning dirty fossil fuels and other toxic energy sources, there’s also a promising trend from governments and industries to lessen their dependence on coal, too. In the US for instance, the Obama administration is laying out rules for cutting carbon emissions produced by coal plants. Like in other parts of the world, increasing incentives are given for developing renewable energy sources like portable solar panels Australia.

2. A Photovoltaic Solar Panel Is Installed Every 4 Minutes

Renewable energy industry insiders say that, one photovoltaic solar panel system is being installed not just in the US, but some place else. If this amazing trend continues to grow at this pace, by 2016 there will be one solar panel system attached every twenty seconds. This is certainly way better than in 2006, where just one PV system was installed every eighty minutes.

3. China Will Add 70 Gigawatts of Solar Power Energy

The world’s biggest polluters are the US and China. However, there’s plenty to be happy about in China, in terms of renewable energy.  The world’s biggest carbon emitter is planning to triple the number of off grid solar panels, and solar energy plants by as much as 70 gigawatts by 2017. This should help reduce pollution levels in China, where the amount of particulate matter in the air is 20 times higher than the normal level.

Perhaps the best thing about solar power Rockhampton is that the price of your average solar panel has declined by as much as 80 percent since 2008. This is according to a recent report by the International Renewable Energy Agency. The overall cost of solar power systems Australia has also gone down by 80 percent since 2009, and will continue to drop further. This is because production costs have lowered, although energy storage and transmission system costs still remain high.

Top 3 Misconceptions About Solar Power

Why should you read this? Simple! Because you have to know the truth about solar energy. Living with no electricity is pretty hard to imagine. However, we have to think about the environment too. Solar panels can provide every home with clean, renewable power day or night.

So, here are the top 3 misconceptions about solar power, which I usually hear when I was still working in some solar panels Rockhampton shops.

1. The Electricity from Solar Power is EXPENSIVE!

“So, do you mean that power plants are not expensive?” This false idea is something that has poisoned our minds for the past years. It seems that most people are more inclined in believing that solar energy is highly expensive.

Let's clear this out! Think of a house without electricity. Imagine you're living in it! Of course, you want to 'power' your territory. However, you only have two options; first is to connect to a grid which is more than about 500 yards, and the second is to install a solar panel!

The truth is, you'll spend too much amount of money when you connect to a grid more than 500 yards away from your residence, than installing a solar panel on your rooftop! So, which one do you prefer?

2. Solar Power is Only Available in Warm Regions

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“So, if I'm living in a cold region, I can't avail solar power?”

Please cut that! This one has really hit my thoughts for a while! Because the truth is, it's still highly possible to use solar power in cold areas. Indeed, solar cells tend to have a better transformation productivity under lower temperature!

Another fact is, the average temperature of a geographical area doesn't have much impact on the solar cells' efficiency. Thus, you don't have to worry about installing a solar panel even if you're living in a cloudy or cold region.

3. Solar Energy is not Technologically Prepared for Public USE

“This could be the most annoying misconception of all time!”

The utilisation of solar energy has truly evolved throughout the years. Researches have been made just to fortify the evidence of the power's readiness and reliability. In fact, multi-billion worth of investment has been allocated for it. Even the government is now pushing commercial and residential solar power projects.

For the real thing, the solar technologies that we all see today are totally RELIABLE.

Still Confused?

These are just some of the misconceptions about solar power I heard before, while working for some solar power systems Australia. I hope this page will help you understand more about solar panels. Share this with your friends!

3 Unusual and Interesting Uses of Solar Power

Whenever you think about solar energy generation, you're probably imaging a house with a rooftop cover with blue panels. That's how they started out, but today, solar panels are more than just your typical answer for free energy at home.

Scientists and engineers have been working for many years to discover the many uses of solar power in Australia, USA, United Kingdom and so on. Surprisingly, some of their inventions are quite unusual. Here are some of the craziest things that they came up with.

1. Bikinis

They certainly took the eco-friendly swimwear to the next level, by making solar-powered bikinis. This little piece of clothing can be used to charge small devices while you're enjoying a day at the lake, pool or by the beach.

This bikini is made from flexible photovoltaic film strips that are woven together with conductive thread. This comes with a USB connector to help give power to your phone while you're sunbathing. This suit is completely water safe, but remember to dry out the USB port first before plugging anything.

2. Sunglasses

Since you're going to the beach, you might want to bring your solar-powered sunglasses as well. One of the companies that have invented this unique device is Ray-Ban. Their Shama Shades will absorb enough solar energy to charge up your iPhone.

The arms, or temples, of this eye wear are made up of mini solar panels that will absorb the sun's energy and turn it into usable power. One of the detachable temples has a connector plug for your phone.

3. Movie Theater

Forget the long lines, freezing temperature and blaring surround sound of your local theatre! With a solar-powered movie theatre, you'll never experience being with an annoying crowd and energy waste while watching a good flick.

Sol Cinema is a small converted trailer that can accommodate eight adults or 12 children. This UK-based business is complete with light, projectors, laptops and hard drives – all of which are powered by 100 percent solar energy from two 120 watt solar panels.

Do you feel like you're in the year 3000? Not yet, but with these gadgets, it seems like it! Since these portable solar panels Australia and United States are everywhere now, don't be shocked if there are more out-of-this-world gadgets that will make the scene!

Off Grid Solar Panels – Solar Water Heating Its Significance and Purpose

In 2004, about 23% of all residential natural gas used was consumed by water heating, taking up about 12% of total residential energy expenditure. The percentage has steadily increased in the subsequent years. Heating water is now considered one of the biggest sources of greenhouse gas emissions in Australia today, second only to automobile usage.

The Australian government is now encouraging all households and community organizations to switch to solar hot water technologies. With the recent boom of off grid solar panels, more and more people are taking advantage of the generous benefits solar water heating can provide.

Solar water heating (SWH) systems are comprised of several renewable energy technologies and innovations. These systems are now widely used not only in Australia, but in Austria, India, Spain, Turkey, and China as well.

DESIGN

The basic design of a “pump-circulated” SWH system is comprised of a storage tank, mounted on the ground or on the floor below the roof-mounted solar panels. A circulating pump moves the water between the tank and the collectors. Water flows from the storage tank up to the roof, is heated by the solar panels, and then flows back down to the storage tank.

In a “close-coupled” SWH system, the storage tank is horizontally mounted above the solar collectors or panels on the roof. No pump is required in this system. The thermosiphon flow allows the hot water to naturally rise into the tank.

Both SWH systems are designed to deliver hot water for most of the year. In some cases, like winter or rainy seasons, there might not be enough solar power to sufficiently heat the water. When this happens, boilers or electric boosters are used for secondary heating.

ADVANTAGES

One of the biggest advantages of using SWH systems are the savings that follow. Studies show that electricity used for water heating can be cut in half, although the actual figures depend heavily on the climate where you live. Warm, sunny places have a better chance of more savings as compared to those that experience wintry or rainy climates.

Another advantage is the corresponding reduction in pollution. Residential greenhouse gas emissions would be brought down by at least another 50%. Installing a SWH system conserves nonrenewable fuels for other applications other than simply water heating.

CONCERNS

Probably the number one drawback to SWH is the price. The savings alone are worth it, but the immediate price of installing one is considerably daunting. A new gas or electric water heater can reach a maximum of $500. A SWH can reach anywhere from $1000 to $3500 for system and installation. A sizable amount can be reduced from the price through self-installation, but professional help is still highly recommended.

You’ll get the money back in savings, of course, but it will take quite a bit of time before you recoup the upfront investment.

Some other valid concerns are temperature and water quality. While countries with higher temperatures are ideal for SWH, areas with cold climates may not even allow SWH systems due to the risk of freezing. If your home’s water is hard or acidic, you may also not be a candidate for an active system, as acidic water can corrode the system components.

Despite the valid concerns, most households are still opting to install SWH systems, as the advantages arguably outweigh the disadvantages. Thanks to technological advancement, it’s becoming clear that heating water and powering houses are not the only things a solar power in Australia can do.

5 Cool Eco Friendly Gadgets to Buy

Are you trying to save energy? Good for you! To help you in that wonderful venture, here are some of the coolest Eco friendly gadgets to check out! By conserving energy and water, you're truly making the Earth a better place to live in.

1. Solar Panel Backpack

Did you know that these even existed? How could you ever go wrong with this bag! Since you're always carrying your gadgets, why not charge them in this handy dandy solar powered backpack. What a neat concept, right? Wherever you go, you'll always have your very own solar power in Australia!

2. Water Pebble

This is one of those Eco friendly gadgets that will help you be proactive! Just put the Water Pebble near the drain of your shower and it'll monitor the usage of your water. This will measure your first shower and then uses it as a starting point.

By blinking different colours, this will indicate the different stages of your shower. The green light signifies the start of your bath, yellow if you're halfway finished and red indicates the end of usage. Each time you take a bath, the Water Pebble will lessen the length of your shower, thus, reducing the amount of water usage.

3. Hand-Crank Flashlight & Radio

Instead of using solar power or batteries, this little flashlight will produce light once you crank it. For an added feature, you can even listen to the radio! It might seem old school, but if you're opting to save the planet, this could be a big help. Certainly, this is the best thing you could use when the power is out or while you're camping.

4. Water Powered Alarm Clock

This water powered alarm clock is not only affordable, but perfect for being environmentally friendly! All you have to do is fill the alarm clock with regular tap water and it’ll run perfectly fine! The clock works by converting ions in the water to energy, so, there's no need for any batteries! Plus, there's no need to replace the water for about six months!

5. Solar Panel Patio Umbrella

The patio umbrella is one of those portable solar panels Australia that people have been raving about. Aside from saving energy, patio umbrella gives off a soothing ambiance during the night! By giving out the right amount of life to set the mood, this is definitely prefect for pool parties.

What do you think of these gadgets? Amazing, right? Since you're on your move on saving planet Earth, better grab one of them in your favorite online and local store now!

3 for 3: Benefits and Notes for Solar Energy

Today, the average household’s use of electricity is pretty high. With the advent of the internet, Android phones, game consoles and smaller and smaller laptops, there are more reasons to stay indoors. These reasons usually involve using up electricity, typically to charge one’s electronic devices. Plus, because conventional electricity is generated from fossil fuels, as the source gets depleted, the price goes higher.

This is why countries are turning to renewable energy. There are five main sources, including wind, water, and solar energy. This last one – solar power Rockhampton – saw a decline in use from 1984 until 1996, but has recently found itself the third most used renewable energy source.

Australia is one of the countries that experienced a high amount of solar radiation every year. In fact, solar power currently provides a higher percentage of the county’s electricity from renewable sources than it used to. More households in Australia are slowly starting to use the sun for the electricity needs, thanks to several advantages and – of course – benefits of doing so, in the long run.

1.       Lower electricity bills. Installing a PV system on your rooftop can drastically lower the amount you pay for electricity. A lot of solar power companies like The Power Shop offer solar hot water systems as well; heating water alone takes up a big percentage of a typical electric bill.

2.       A chance to earn back. Homeowners need to invest, of course, for the cost of setting up a solar power system at home. If your system generates more electricity than your household needs, the excess can be sold to the grid. A PV system can also become a real estate selling point to add market value to your home when you go selling.

3.       Protection from rising prices. One drawback of conventional electricity is that it’s subjected to the fluctuating prices of fossil fuels and other typical sources. Using solar panels insures protection against these.

These are the three main benefits of using solar energy, aside from reduced pollution. Solar energy releases no greenhouse gases, so it doesn’t pollute the air. Some energy is used in the manufacturing process, but it’s a small amount compared to the energy saved by using solar panels in the first place.

There are a few things homeowners will want to keep in mind before they have a solar power system installed. First, the efficiency of the home PV system will depend on several factors. These include the type of panels, the size of your system, and where your home is located. Location matters because some places in Australia receive more solar radiation than others.

Second, how much electricity your household uses will also influence the extent to which your PV system will be relied on to replace grid electricity. You’ll also want to remember that solar energy and grid electricity can work together, so you needn’t worry about having no power when it’s overcast.

Third, it will help to do your research and seek professional advice before you can make an informed choice. Once again, solar power companies – The Power Shop, or a similar entity – can help in this regard, and they’ll take care of the installation, too. From there, you can see for yourself why solar power in Australia has taken off the way it has.