Solar energy or power is the focus of the search for cheap alternative energy as we try to reduce our dependence on, and reduce the effects of, fossil fuels. Using solar power as a means of creating a cheaper alternative to our current energy sources is based upon the following principles.

1. Unlike our finite resources of fossil fuels, solar energy is an infinite and renewable energy source.

2. There are no harmful emissions.

3. The harnessing of solar energy greatly reduces the very significant usage of water that is typical of using coal, nuclear and combined energy sources.

4. After the initial expenditure involved with the installation of a solar powered source of energy, plus some maintenance costs, it is to all intents and purposes free.

Advocates of using solar energy have always faced two major difficulties with promoting this possible form of cheap alternative energy. Currently it is not in real terms a cheap alternative. Inefficiencies and the expenditure involved in the initial set up costs means that solar energy is still viewed by the majority as a fringe source of energy.

However great strides have been made in the search for greater efficiencies in the use of solar power. Recently a group of U.S. scientists set a world record in solar cell efficiency by transforming almost 41% of captured light into energy.

Whilst this is obviously good news in the long term it is not enough to see solar power gain worldwide acceptance as being a viable alternative energy source. The determining factor as always will be costs. Until the stage is reached where this form of energy is accessible to the majority of people it is never going to be an alternative energy let alone our main source.

It all boils down to finances and in a world of financial turmoil it is nearly always research and development that feels the swiftest and sharpest financial cutbacks. Research and development is the only way that solar energy is ever going to reach the stage that it is available to the masses. The masses will only be able to avail of it if it is a cheap alternative.

This is the vicious circle that solar energy and its proponents are caught in. Until the stage is reached where we achieve greater efficiencies in the use of this energy and the production of the units’ solar power will not be a cheap alternative.

In recent times of economic boom the emphasis shifted from looking at cheap alternatives and fossil fuels strengthened their position of dominance. If sufficient strides and financing did not occur during times of prosperity it is highly unlikely to occur during an economic slump.

Local and national support for promoting solar energy as a cheap alternative energy source is unlikely to be enough to see this idea lighting up our world. If this form of energy is ever going to reach the stage of being a cheap alternative it needs worldwide collaboration and a long term strategy. Have we seen the light?

Atul Tanna writes about energy and has equally knowledgeable guest authors also writing on the subject in the regularly updated blog called Cheap Alternative Energy. This thriving and popular blog is where you’ll also find Alternative Sources of Renewable Energy and benefits arising therefrom.You must visit [http://cheap-alternative-energy.com]

Please Note... All links within articles are placed by their author-owners and not by this blog.Products with in those links may or may not be the best in the world.If it sounds too good to be true it could be a scam.Articles are posted for their info,ideas and or entertainment value only.

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Solar energy is probably the most untapped sources of renewable energy available in the ecosystem. Although a solar panel pay for itself with the energy it adds to your house that saves you money, but it is probably the few energy sources used on the globe that is 100 percent renewable and 100 percent pollution free. Unlike energy sources such as coal or nuclear which produce toxic gases and byproducts that are harmful to the environment, solar power leaves zero carbon footprint and no harmful emissions in the act of absorbing sunlight to product electricity.

Solar Panels are made by mounting solar cells on a backing plate. Some panels are rigid and can be roof mounted while others are flexible and can be rolled up and put into a rucksack

Solar Cells are usually made from silica which comes from sand

Solar cells are small semiconductors which produce a small voltage and electric current when light shines on them

Solar Panels are getting cheaper now. With so much pressure from climate change concerns lots of technological effort is going into producing more cheaply.

Solar Panels are also getting more affordable due to central government grants and perhaps local grants too

Solar panels are gaining in efficiency in extreme measures. Wikipedia has it that the first solar cell was only 1% efficient and commercial cells are commonly 20% efficient. Breaking news would be that the latest experimental cells in a laboratory setting are 45% efficient. These cells hold a promise of smaller cheaper panels with even cheaper electric power.

Do-it-yourself enthusiasts are also building their own panels. The main skill needed for this sort of D.I.Y. project is soldering. You need this skill because the panels consist of, for example, 24 solar cells hooked up electrically and with leads soldered onto each cell. And in order to connect to your residence electric circuits even a keen D.I.Y. enthusiast would be recommended to call in a qualified electrician experienced in home solar energy to check what they’re doing!

The price of a factory made solar panel varies widely with its size and construction. It will be in the $ 800 to $ 1200 range and the home would need perhaps a dozen of these or more. You can view why the DIY market exists with prices like these!

It’s correct that electric utility companies may buy solar electricity out of your home should you be generating more than you are using but not all utilities do this, so check beforehand if this sounds like one of the goals

A solar survey done by an experienced solar installer will help you and advice on the position and direction of your panels. The panels need to face the sun and in the northern hemisphere they will face South but shade from trees and chimneys may mean that an installation is not practical on that roof. Some people solve that problem by mounting their panels on poles or frames well away from their home. Do not forget to read about metal garage buildings for an alternative storage soultion.

Solar energy is over a hundred years old and is now developing very fast. It is well worth checking to see if it may help you reduce both your impact on the environment your living costs.

Please Note... All links within articles are placed by their author-owners and not by this blog.Products with in those links may or may not be the best in the world.If it sounds too good to be true it could be a scam.Articles are posted for their info,ideas and or entertainment value only.

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