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	<title>Residential Solar Power Systems &#38; Solar Panel Kits for Home Use</title>
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		<title>Residential Solar Inverters</title>
		<link>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/residential-solar-inverters</link>
		<comments>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/residential-solar-inverters#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 15 Jan 2012 10:46:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Solar Products Reviews]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/?p=499</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[What is a Solar Panel Inverter? A solar panel inverter is a device that converts the Direct Current (DC) generated by solar panels to Alternating Current (AC), which is the type of electricity used by household appliances and electronic devices. The inverter also converts the voltage generated by the solar panel from 12 volts DC, [...]]]></description>
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<h2>What is a Solar Panel Inverter?</h2>
<p>A solar panel inverter is a device that converts the Direct Current (DC) generated by solar panels to Alternating Current (AC), which is the type of electricity used by household appliances and electronic devices. The inverter also converts the voltage generated by the solar panel from 12 volts DC, to 110 or 220 volts AC, in U.S. applications.</p>
<h3>Types of Solar Inverters</h3>
<h3>- Off Grid Inverter</h3>
<p>This type of inverter is used with an off-grid solar power system. Also called a stand alone system, the off-grid system is not connected to the electrical power grid. Off-grid systems connect the solar panels to a bank of DC storage batteries, with the inverter placed in-line between the batteries and the breaker box that distributes power to your home. The inverter draws DC current from the batteries as needed, converting it to usable AC current.</p>
<h3>- Grid Tie Inverter</h3>
<p>A grid tie inverter connects directly to the solar panels, converting the DC electricity to AC, then sending it directly to the breaker box for household consumption. Grid tie inverters work in tandem with the electric grid so can be configured for net-metering, allowing excess electricity to be sold to the utility company.</p>
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<h3>- On/Off Grid Inverter</h3>
<p>Used in grid-tied applications, but offer the benefit of electricity storage in a battery bank. Use of an on/off grid inverter will provide power during a utility grid blackout.</p>
<h3>- Mini Inverter</h3>
<p>Mini, or micro inverters are small inverters that are fitted to each individual solar panel in the system. This allows each panel to operate at its peak, regardless of the performance of other panels in the system, also allowing for multiple types of solar panels within the system.</p>
<h2>How Long Do Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Inverters Last?</h2>
<p>The average lifespan for a PV inverter is between 15 and 20 years. Most manufacturers offer a 10 to 15 year warranty.</p>
<h2>How Much Does A Solar Panel Inverter Cost?</h2>
<p>The cost of the inverter depends on the type selected, what type of solar panels you select, and the amount of wattage and voltage needed for your system. Using both grid tie and off grid inverters with a 120 volt AC/4000 watt load as an example, prices typically range between $1,600 and $2,800. Mini inverters that have an average rating of between 190 and 220 watts typically cost between $165 and $200 each. Keep in mind that prices can vary widely, depending on where you buy them and the brand selected for the system.</p>
<h2>How The Solar Inverter Is Connected to the Grid</h2>
<p>The PV system is connected to the electrical grid through a bi-directional interface connected through the breaker box. The inverter converts the DC power to AC power of compatible quality to the utility grid, feeding unused electricity into the grid.</p>
<h2>How To Choose A Solar Inverter</h2>
<p>Choosing the right solar inverter is determined by what its intended use is. The main things to consider include: whether the system will be on grid or off grid, what type of solar panels will be used, and the total amount of wattage needed.</p>
<h2>How To Size Solar Inverters</h2>
<p>To determine the size inverter needed, add up the amount of watts used by each appliance in the house by how many hours per day it is used, add them together and this will give the approximate wattage needed.</p>
<h2>How To Wire Solar Panels To The Inverter</h2>
<p>Start by connecting the input terminals to the charge controller. The next step is to connect the charge controller to the inverter. Make sure to use the correct size wire to ensure optimum performance of the system.</p>
<h2>What Are The Best Inverters For Solar Panels</h2>
<p><strong>Xantrex</strong> offers mobile power inverters that come in a variety of sizes and power ranges, providing power when and where you need it. Their ProSine, ProWatt, Pro and XPower series inverters can handle nearly all mobile power needs.</p>
<p><strong>Sunny Boy - SMA America</strong> is an industry leader in small and mid-range systems. Innovative technology in both transformer and transformerless type inverters provide high efficiency performance in all TL-US models. Wattage ratings range from 3,000 to 10,000.</p>
<p><strong>Fronius</strong> USA offers two lines of grid-connected inverters. The IG line is designed for smaller systems, up to 2,500 watts, and offers compatibility with all traditional PV panels. The CL product line is designed for larger systems, up to 60 kW, and features a modular system design.</p>
<p><strong>Enphase</strong> offers an innovative line of microinverters ranging from 190 to 215 watt ratings. The M190, M210 and M215 inverters all come with built-in connector cables for easy installation and offer up to 95.5% efficiency.</p>
<p><strong>Aurora</strong> offers several types of inverters to meet a variety of needs. The Aurora product line includes the Micro 300 watt mini inverter, the Optimizer DC-to-DC technology line, the Uno single-phase inverter for residential and small commercial applications, and the Trio three-phase commercial inverter.</p>
<p><strong>Advanced Energy (AE)</strong> provides both transformer-based and transformerless string inverters for both commercial and residential applications rated for loads ranging from 2 to 7 kW. AE's PVP line of inverters are designed for easy installation and outstanding reliability.</p>
<p><strong>GE</strong> offers their new Brilliance line of commercial inverters in models ranging from 700kW to 1 MW to meet the most demanding commercial applications.</p>
<p><strong>BP</strong> Solar Grid Connect inverters are user friendly and reliable. The GC product line is offered in both residential and commercial models.</p>
<p><strong>Sharp</strong> offers an innovative approach with the Sharp JH-3500U inverter. This 3.5 kW inverter will accept three input strings, allowing a variety of PV module configurations.</p>
<p><strong>Apollo Solar</strong> features high efficiency off grid solutions with their TrueSineWave Inverter line in 3200 and 4000 watt models designed for residential use.<br />
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		<title>Solar Powered Christmas Lights: the Basics</title>
		<link>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/solar-powered-christmas-lights-basics</link>
		<comments>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/solar-powered-christmas-lights-basics#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 19 Dec 2011 09:04:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Solar Lighting]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/?p=496</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Traditional holiday Christmas lights are quickly becoming antiquated. New technology, utilizing growing advances in solar energy, is creating a stream of reasonably priced and cost saving Christmas lights. Solar Christmas lights are rapidly expanding commodities. Reliability, eco-friendliness, and cost-efficiency over traditional Christmas light bulbs contribute to solar power lights rapid expansion. A solar panel, containing [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Traditional holiday Christmas lights are quickly becoming antiquated. New technology, utilizing growing advances in solar energy, is creating a stream of reasonably priced and cost saving Christmas lights.<br />
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Solar Christmas lights are rapidly expanding commodities. Reliability, eco-friendliness, and cost-efficiency over traditional Christmas light bulbs contribute to solar power lights rapid expansion. A solar panel, containing a photovoltaic cell converts sunlight into an electrical current. This current is then transferred to a battery, ensuring the Christmas lights can run all night long. The battery then transfers current and lights the LED bulbs, with a burn life fall longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.<br />
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These relatively inexpensive bulbs <strong>run completely autonomously</strong>. No electricity current is needed for the bulbs to operate, and for this reason electricity is conserved. In addition to cutting down environmental waste associated with electricity usage, these bulbs also end up <strong>saving a significant amount of money</strong>. On average, Christmas lights electricity run between $20 and $25 per month of usage for one average sized set of Christmas lights. This price varies directly with the amount of Christmas lights used.</p>
<p>Compared to the cost of using traditional Christmas lights, solar light bulbs can more than pay for themselves throughout the course of a month. <strong>Expect energy bills to decrease by as much as 20 percent during holiday seasons</strong> while using solar powered Christmas lights.<br />
Solar panel Christmas lights are also more convenient than their old-fashioned peers. Extension cords are no longer needed, and the new LED bulbs are significantly less likely to burn out than traditional incandescent bulbs. Also, solar Christmas lights utilize a completely environmentally friendly and renewable resource, sunlight. Solar Christmas lights emit zero greenhouse gases and carbon emission, making them much more environmentally friendly than traditional Christmas lights.</p>
<p>Solar power Christmas light come in all varieties, specialized for outdoor use as sunlight is not available in the necessary quantity indoors. Traditional solar Christmas lights consist of 100 bulbs producing a LED white light. <strong>Available for less than $30</strong>, these basic bulbs consistently pay for themselves within a season due to reduced electricity bills. Solar Christmas lights, however, also come in many different shapes and sizes. From webbed to multicolored, solar Christmas light come in almost every shape imaginable.</p>
<p>Solar Christmas lights offer almost every conceivable advantage over traditional Christmas lights. In addition to being more eco-friendly, solar Christmas lights have a longer bulb life, do not need extension cords, can be place where running electricity from an outlet is inconvenient or impossible, and significantly lower electricity bills during holiday months.</p>
<p>Product recommendations include: Gudcraft Solar Powered 35-foot Holiday strings lights, Gudcraft Solar Powered 35-foot Holiday lights (multicolored), and Solar New Lighting<br />
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		<title>What is the Most Efficient PV Solar Panel for Home?</title>
		<link>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/efficient-pv-solar-panel-home</link>
		<comments>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/efficient-pv-solar-panel-home#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 24 Nov 2011 06:09:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Solar Q&A]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/?p=475</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Many people focus primarily on price when they make purchasing decisions for their solar panel requirements. However, there are several pertinent factors to consider when choosing the most efficient solar PV panel for the home. There are basically 3 types of solar panels although these may be sub-divided into further sub-categories. Mono-crystalline solar panels use [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Many people focus primarily on price when they make purchasing decisions for their solar panel requirements. However, there are several pertinent factors to consider when choosing the most efficient solar PV panel for the home.<br />
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There are basically 3 types of solar panels although these may be sub-divided into further sub-categories.<br />
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<strong>Mono-crystalline</strong> solar panels use cells made of single large crystals, which are cut from ingots. Considering power output, these panels cover the smallest area, making them ideal for people with limited space. Their average efficiency is between 12% and 15% and they are usually warranted for between 20 and 25 years. These panels are usually blue-grey.</p>
<p><strong>Poly-crystalline</strong> panels use cells made of silicon having several small crystals. These panels are more common because they provide a good balance between performance and price. They have an average efficiency of between 11% and 14%. Their colors range from dark blue to black, with the appearance of shattered glass.<br />
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<strong>Amorphous</strong> solar panels use the least amount of silicon, which is spread on large plates. This is why they are also known as thin-film solar panels. Although the panels are relatively cheap, they are less efficient than the previous 2 types, with an average efficiency of between 5% and 6%. They tend to be relatively large. However, they offer flexibility that makes them ideal for specific uses where flexibility matters.</p>
<p>There are also newer types of panels that are still less popular. Concentrating panels use mirrors and lenses to focus sun’s rays onto individual cells. Since solar cells produce electricity in direct proportion to the solar energy they absorb, this technology leads to the use of fewer cells. These types of panels are especially ideal for areas that receive relatively less solar energy.</p>
<p>Another new technology involves the use of special materials that absorb a wider spectrum of solar energy. These are known as Group III-IV solar panels, which have efficiencies of about 25%. However, they are still used for special purposes because of their high costs.</p>
<h3>Calculating Efficiency</h3>
<p>Users can calculate the efficiency of solar panels by dividing the maximum power rating (Pmax) by the area (A) the panel covers. This helps in calculating energy density or power per unit area. This calculation is important when considering the available space for installing the solar PV panels, usually on the roof. Other important considerations include the total power requirement and durability of the panels.<br />
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		<title>Solar Panel Grants and Funding for Homeowners</title>
		<link>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/solar-panel-grants-funding-homeowners</link>
		<comments>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/solar-panel-grants-funding-homeowners#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Nov 2011 17:27:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Solar Funding]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/?p=406</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For homeowners interested in utilizing the sun’s natural power to be used for residential electricity consumption, there are more initiatives and funding available than ever before. Putting up the substantial costs for the initial installation is out of reach for most homeowners but what many people don’t know is there are many options available to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>For homeowners interested in utilizing the sun’s natural power to be used for residential electricity consumption, there are more initiatives and funding available than ever before. Putting up <a href="http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/install-solar-powered-panels">the substantial costs for the initial installation</a> is out of reach for most homeowners but what many people don’t know is there are many options available to help offset those up-front costs and make solar energy a possibility for every household. Many states provide grant funding to support residential consumers in making the switch or supplementing their current power supply.<br />
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<h2>How Does Solar Energy Benefit Us?</h2>
<p>The true benefits of solar power vary depending on what it is being used for, level of consumption, and the expectations of the homeowner. There is the general benefit that affects us all: decreased pollution from decreased use of utility power. Electricity, natural gas, and propane all produce pollution at varying degrees. Solar power is one of the few energy sources that produce no pollution after the initial creation of the solar panels. </p>
<h3><img src="../wp-content/uploads//2010/06/Arrow-Right.png" alt="" width="25" height="25" /> <a rel="nofollow" href="../?link=Find-Solar-Contractor-2" target="_blank">So you want a residential solar panels system? Did you know that…</a></h3>
<p>Solar panel systems are best paired with a concerted effort to reduce energy consumption and wasted energy (remember the light you left on when you went to work?) This helps keep costs feasible and reasonable in installing a power system to meet your level of consumption. With residential solar grants, your home can begin utilizing this environmentally-friendly technology at little or no cost to you.</p>
<h2>Where do I find Government Solar Grants?</h2>
<p>Government solar grants are technical or financial assistance offered to homeowners and businesses to help offset the substantial upfront costs of solar panel installation. More and more states are beginning to offer domestic solar power grants for state residents who need financial or technical assistance. States like New York, Montana, Minnesota, and Washington are just a few of the states establishing programs specifically targeting homeowners and low-income populations. For detailed information and a state-by-state breakdown of benefits available for homeowners, check out DSIRE’s database (<a href="http://www.dsireusa.org/incentives/">http://www.dsireusa.org/incentives/</a>) for a breakdown of the benefits available to you.</p>
<h2>Where do I find Federal Solar Grants?</h2>
<p>Federal financial assistance for solar energy comes primarily in the form of substantial tax rebates or deductions available for the amount of money you spend toward the installation of a solar power system. These green energy tax credits are better than ever and until 2016, homeowners can take advantage of an uncapped 30% federal tax credit (Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit) for residential solar electricity and solar hot water systems. The 30% credit can be used for labor and equipment costs and is even transferrable to later tax years if you are unable to use the full credit in the current year the system was installed.</p>
<h2>Where do I find Department of Energy (DOE) Solar Grants?</h2>
<p>To begin the search for residential solar grants, your first stop should be at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, or EERE for short. (<a href="http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/financial_opportunities.html">http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/financial_opportunities.html</a>) Here you can find a comprehensive database with current opportunities, past opportunities, and the ability to subscribe to an e-mail reminder when new opportunities become available. Under the DOE’s Solar Energy Technologies Program (SETP) technical and financial assistance are made available for a variety of solar energy purposes.</p>
<h3><img src="../wp-content/uploads//2010/06/Arrow-Right.png" alt="" width="25" height="25" /> <a rel="nofollow" href="../?link=Find-Solar-Contractor-2" target="_blank">So you want a residential solar panels system? Did you know that…</a></h3>
<p>If you’re a homeowner looking to supplement or replace your power grid with renewable, clean energy, make sure to research all the potential benefits and grants available to you. Costs continue to decrease as demand increases but you don’t have to wait! Take advantage of the opportunities of government and state grants and assistance and make solar power your go-to source for clean energy. </p>
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		<title>The US Can Decrease Energy Prices</title>
		<link>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/decrease-energy-prices</link>
		<comments>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/decrease-energy-prices#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 28 Sep 2011 02:33:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Energy Efficiency]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/?p=397</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There really is a way to force down energy prices in the United States. Everyone complains about energy prices, no one does anything about it. That is because no one know what to do. It’s like most other concerns here and anywhere else. People are frustrated with a certain situation, then the frustration escalates becomes [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>There really is a way to force down energy prices in the United States. Everyone complains about energy prices, no one does anything about it. That is because no one know what to do. It’s like most other concerns here and anywhere else. People are frustrated with a certain situation, then the frustration escalates becomes they feel powerless to make a change. The concerns with energy are no different. Energy prices keep going up and up. Citizens are upset because wage are not increasing to keep up with expenses. Exasperation increases because everyone feels caught, controlled, with no recourse to take.<br />
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Let’s take a look at what Germany is doing to decrease energy prices, and see if we might do the same. Even though seven nuclear reactors have recently been shut down, Germany continues to export electricity. How does this happen? The answer is found in four words, “continued renewable energy expansion.” We need to look at the forms of energy that are renewable. Germany is doing it. They are driving down energy prices because they have produced enough electricity that most can be exported. This addition revenue to the country makes it possible to lower energy prices in Germany. Let’s follow suit.</p>
<p>There as been some talk in the United States and in some other North American countries that Germany has had to rely on imported electricity because of the shut-down of German nuclear plants. This has been shown to be entirely false since the Bureau of Statistics in Germany reported that more electricity was exported from Germany in the first six months of 2011 than the amount of electricity that was imported during this time. It has also been reported that Germany consumes more than 300 TWH or terawatt-hours, every six months. The surplus that can be exported in only about 1% of the energy that is used there.</p>
<p>With Germany’s plans to add 7,000 megawatts of wind and solar energy in the year 2013 the futures markets for fossil fuel is being affected. This solar-based energy production alone is growing rapidly, mostly because of feed-in tariff supports which are providing government subsidies to help the program along.</p>
<p>Is this a program the United States could benefit from? Would government-supported, taxpayer-funded subsidies boost the production of wind and solar energy? Could this increase in energy production bring about a decrease in the price of energy here? It’s worth looking into. </p>
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		<title>Saving Electricity &#8211; The Easy Way</title>
		<link>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/saving-electricity-easy</link>
		<comments>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/saving-electricity-easy#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 29 Aug 2011 04:38:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Energy Efficiency]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/?p=392</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[At the point in time electricity became a necessity, the lines of energy conservation began to blur. Today, there are many options that not only save electricity but reduce the residual footprint of energy use. It&#8217;s a matter of rethinking lifestyles in a way that doesn&#8217;t add inconvenience or increased labor involved in ordinary daily [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>At the point in time electricity became a necessity, the lines of energy conservation began to blur. Today, there are many options that not only save electricity but reduce the residual footprint of energy use. It&#8217;s a matter of rethinking lifestyles in a way that doesn&#8217;t add inconvenience or increased labor involved in ordinary daily activities. Even the most conscious efforts to saving electricity can become pleasurable experiences.</p>
<h3><img src="../wp-content/uploads//2010/06/Arrow-Right.png" alt="" width="25" height="25" /> <a href="../?link=Find-Solar-Contractor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">You Could Get a FREE Solar Power Kit – CLICK HERE!</a></h3>
<p><strong>Saving Electricity The KISS Way</strong><br />
There&#8217;s a second meaning to KISS: Keep It Simple Savings. Saving electricity may be as simple as reliving simple life pleasures. What can be more comforting after a hectic day at the office than a tranquil candlelight dinner for two, or for one? Even kids don&#8217;t mind roughing it like this one or two nights a week at dinner. They may even look forward to it. At the end of the day, a bath or shower by candlelight is one great way to be good to yourself and indulge in a lovely, half hour of soothing &#8220;Me Time&#8221;.<br />
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<strong>Daily Living And Saving Electricity</strong><br />
Having a fun weekend camping or enjoying the wilderness is another way to learn to live simply without electricity. When you return to your home base, use all of nature&#8217;s ideas to help decorate your home more simply. Instead of an electrical room atomizer, try creating your own fragrance oils from pine sap, lemon or orange rind or a floral blend for a potpourri. Store young pine cones or eucalyptus leaves in decorative jars.</p>
<p><strong>Line Drying Laundry</strong><br />
Drying laundry on an outdoor line saves on electricity. Choose a lovely sunny day and try just a few items of clothing at first. Make use of a portable line for smaller laundry pieces for drying indoors. Try this once or twice a week at first. It can be habit forming. When drying clothes in an electric or natural gas dryer, remove the clothing immediately to cut down on use of the electric iron.</p>
<p><strong>Saving Electricity One Watt At A Time</strong><br />
One of the simplest ways to save electricity is to make sure lights are switched off when not in use. This is also a safety feature as well. Many new power surge protectors also have an energy saver feature. Check these before you buy. Unplug appliances when not in use. This also applies to washers, dryers, toasters and table lamps. </p>
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		<title>How To Set Up The Most Basic Solar Power System?</title>
		<link>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/set-basic-solar-power-system</link>
		<comments>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/set-basic-solar-power-system#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 17 Aug 2011 03:30:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[DIY Solar Energy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Solar Q&A]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/?p=386</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When thinking of a basic solar power system, think of a small cabin in the woods that needs four 12 volt batteries as a simple example. The assumption being that you are planning to run a small minifridge, a few lights, and a small stove. Perhaps, you may plan on powering a few simple tools [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>When thinking of a basic solar power system, think of a small cabin in the woods that needs four 12 volt batteries as a simple example. The assumption being that you are planning to run a small minifridge, a few lights, and a small stove. Perhaps, you may plan on powering a few simple tools as well. </p>
<p>The most basic setup will include a 3 panel (45 watt) solar kit and perhaps a 300 watt inverter at the minimum. This actually is a good starting point for a basic solar power system and then an additional 60 watts can be added. Anywhere you can eliminate the use of an inverter will help cut back on cost and the amount of converted current needed.<br />
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Quite simply this means connect the solar panel and the tool directly to the battery using their wires leaving out the inverter. Another simple solution is to wire the solar panel directly onto the tool like a solar panel wired onto an attic fan. In this case, the fan will only run when the sun is shining because there is no battery involved to store charge.</p>
<h3><img src="../wp-content/uploads//2010/06/Arrow-Right.png" alt="" width="25" height="25" /> <a href="../?link=Find-Solar-Contractor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">You Could Get a FREE Solar Power Kit – CLICK HERE!</a></h3>
<p>When mounting the panels, be certain to angle the panels slanted about 12 degrees thus maximizing exposure to the sun. If done correctly, then the three panels will yield 15 watts each at midday sun or 1.5 amperes. Keep in mind that a cabin in the woods will have plenty of trees around it to cast a shadow on the solar panels. </p>
<p>Considering the solar panels need sun to generate power, the trees might be a problem. In this scenario, the batteries will be at a trickle charge over the course of the day and will not even be able to power a light bulb.</p>
<p>If using the cabin for intermittent getaways, then perhaps a generator may be sufficient instead of solar panels. If planning on living in the cabin year round then consider a system of 500 watts at a minimum and a 1000 amp hour battery bank so that you can live comfortably inside.</p>
<h3><img src="../wp-content/uploads//2010/06/Arrow-Right.png" alt="" width="25" height="25" /> <a href="../?link=Find-Solar-Contractor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">You Could Get a FREE Solar Power Kit – CLICK HERE!</a></h3>
<p>On a more professional level, a basic solar power system includes the solar panels, charge controller, batteries, and an inverter. This will generally include a large array of solar panels that are wired together. In this scenario, the appliances will just be plugged into the inverter as needed. This system is generally installed by the local power company and comes with several rebate and tax incentives. </p>
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		<title>What Is Residential Solar Leasing?</title>
		<link>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/residential-solar-leasing</link>
		<comments>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/residential-solar-leasing#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 08 Jul 2011 04:30:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Solar Funding]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/?p=370</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Are you frustrated with the fact that buying solar panels for your home is an expensive investment? It&#8217;s kind of ridiculous to think that the costs of setting up a system could be upwards of 40 thousand dollars. Even though it is a good investment with tax advantages, most people could not afford the up-front [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Are you frustrated with the fact that buying solar panels for your home is an expensive investment? It&#8217;s kind of ridiculous to think that the costs of setting up a system could be upwards of 40 thousand dollars. Even though it is a good investment with tax advantages, most people could not afford the up-front costs. </p>
<h3><img src="../wp-content/uploads//2010/06/Arrow-Right.png" alt="" width="25" height="25" /> <a href="../?link=Find-Solar-Contractor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">You Could Get a FREE Solar Power Kit – CLICK HERE!</a></h3>
<p>Fortunately, there is an affordable option available for people who want to go green without having huge investment costs. This option is known as residential solar leasing. In this article we will discuss what residential solar leasing is, as well as provide you with the positive and negative aspects of it. In the end, we hope this article will help you to make an informed decision.<br />
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<strong>What Is Residential Solar Leasing?</strong> &#8211; It is a fairly new concept but it is exactly what its name implies. Solar companies lease their solar panels to home owners for a fixed monthly fee or a fixed price per kilowatt hour. Once a lease is signed the solar company will install the solar panels on your home, as well as keep it maintained through out your lease period. Once the lease expires you can extend it or end it. If you choose to end the lease the solar company will remove the panels at no cost to you.</p>
<p><strong>Positive Aspects</strong> &#8211; The biggest positive of residential solar leasing is that it eliminates the huge up-front investment you would have if you were to buy the system. You will also begin saving money right away because you are not trying to recoup a huge investment. Another positive is that with a long lease you will be locking in your costs during the entire lease. This is not the case with the utility companies because their prices keep rising every year.</p>
<p><strong>Negative Aspects</strong> &#8211; The biggest negative I can think of when leasing residential solar panels is the contract lengths. The contract lengths are typically 10, 15, or 20 years. This means you could potentially be stuck with the bill if you decide to sell your home. Another disadvantage is the fact that you will always be paying a monthly bill. If you purchased your own system you would be getting free power once the system has paid for itself.</p>
<p>Now that you have all the information that you need, you should be able to make an informed decision on whether to buy or lease your residential solar system. If your goal is to go green and save on your monthly utility bill without having huge investment cost, then leasing is the right option for you. If your goal is to go completely off the grid and eventually have no power costs then buying is the option for you. Both options will have a positive effect on our environment, you just have to choose which option is best for you. </p>
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		<title>Boost Your Home Property Values With Solar Panels!</title>
		<link>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/boost-home-property-values-solar-panels</link>
		<comments>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/boost-home-property-values-solar-panels#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 07 Jul 2011 05:01:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Solar Funding]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/?p=374</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For the foreseeable future, consumers in the United States and around the world can expect to spend an increasing amount of their income on electricity. Shrinking coal and petroleum deposits mean that energy producers have to spend more to keep the juice flowing, and those costs are inevitably passed on to the customer. That&#8217;s why [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>For the foreseeable future, consumers in the United States and around the world can expect to spend an increasing amount of their income on electricity. Shrinking coal and petroleum deposits mean that energy producers have to spend more to keep the juice flowing, and those costs are inevitably passed on to the customer. </p>
<p>That&#8217;s why alternative energy sources like solar and wind have become so popular in recent years. For the average homeowner, solar is the best option for reducing electricity bills over the long term. In addition, solar panels have the added benefit of raising the value of your home.<br />
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A home with solar panels already installed and running is seen as being increasingly attractive to buyers for a few reasons. For one thing, a moderately-sized solar panel array set up on the roof can cut electricity bills by $50 to $80 a month for the average home. Those kinds of savings add up over time. In addition, installed solar panels can actually end up being a net revenue generator. </p>
<p>Many utility companies now allow homeowners to “sell back” any excess electricity they generate to the larger grid. Depending on your situation, solar panels can completely eliminate electricity bills and even earn a small income. These built-in energy savings bid up the price of your home over others in the area which lack a photo-voltaic system.</p>
<h3><img src="../wp-content/uploads//2010/06/Arrow-Right.png" alt="" width="25" height="25" /> <a href="../?link=Find-Solar-Contractor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">You Could Get a FREE Solar Power Kit – CLICK HERE!</a></h3>
<p>In addition, the capital improvement of installing a solar array alone will increase your home&#8217;s asking price by tens of thousands of dollars. An average grid can cost upwards of $20,000 to install. Assuming a useful lifetime of a quarter century or so and energy savings of $1000 a year or more, solar panels easily pay for themselves over that time period. </p>
<p>What&#8217;s more, those who choose to install panels can obtain federal tax credits and grant assistance which can slash the price of installation in half. Overall, early adopters of solar panel technology stand to gain significantly both in energy savings and appreciated home value in return for a modest investment.</p>
<p>Ultimately, a solar panel installation is seen as a far more prudent and useful capital investment than, say, a new deck. It saves money and can even earn some extra cash during the life of the system. There&#8217;s also the added convenience of having a backup electricity system in case of power outages and blackouts.</p>
<h3><img src="../wp-content/uploads//2010/06/Arrow-Right.png" alt="" width="25" height="25" /> <a href="../?link=Find-Solar-Contractor" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">You Could Get a FREE Solar Power Kit – CLICK HERE!</a></h3>
<p>Clearly, there are many advantages to adding solar panels to your home. But in a depressed real estate market where moving a house is a tough sell in many areas of the country, the increase in home value associated with solar panels is reason enough to jump on the bandwagon. </p>
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		<title>What exactly is Grid-Tie system and exactly how does it work?</title>
		<link>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/gridtie-system-work</link>
		<comments>http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/gridtie-system-work#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 27 Feb 2011 14:10:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Solar Q&A]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.residentialsolarpanels.org/?p=163</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Grid-tie solar panel systems produce energy, transmitting this power to your utility company&#8217;s electrical power grid. Essentially, this implies the utility company will be paying out you to generate electricity for them, because the power you have produced counts against the energy your property or company utilizes. Your own solar power panels may generate DC [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p></p><p>Grid-tie solar panel systems produce energy, transmitting this power to your utility company&#8217;s electrical power grid. Essentially, this implies the utility company will be paying out you to generate electricity for them, because the power you have produced counts against the energy your property or company utilizes.</p>
<p>Your own solar power panels may generate DC (Direct Current) electrical energy. This kind of electrical energy will be run through an inverter to generate Alternating current (Alternating Current) energy. This electricity is then run into your Alternating current electrical power panel, which feeds energy to your utility companies power grid. In case your solar energy array generated sufficient electrical power, your utility meter would certainly begin to run backward!</p>
<h3><img src="../wp-content/uploads//2010/06/Arrow-Right.png" alt="" width="25" height="25" /> <a rel="nofollow" href="../?link=Find-Solar-Contractor-2" target="_blank">You Could Get a FREE Solar Power Kit – CLICK HERE!</a></h3>
<h3>The primary components of an Grid-Tie system are:</h3>
<p><strong>Residential solar panels </strong>You will need solar panels to get the solar energy and transform this to DC power. The quantity and type of solar panels will probably determine the amount of power you&#8217;ll be able to generate, as will your current geographic position.</p>
<p><strong>Combiner Box</strong> This box collects each of the Solar Panel connections.</p>
<p><strong>DC Breaker Box</strong> Your array&#8217;s breaker safely shuts your solar power system on the moment&#8217;s notice, permitting risk-free maintenance, repair, and inspection.</p>
<p><strong>Inverter</strong> Inverters get Direct Current power and transform it to household (Alternating current) power.</p>
<p><strong>Grid Disconnect</strong> A grid disconnect allows you to stop the flow of electricity between your solar power system and your electrical system. This provides for the safe maintenance of electrical and utility systems.</p>
<h3>What&#8217;s the cost?</h3>
<p>The price varies, however, you could estimate it with relative simplicity; all you want to know is exactly what equipment you&#8217;ll need and also the labour price.</p>
<p>We have reviewed the essential components you will need for your solar array: the solar panels, a GFCI, a solar array breaker, an inverter, a grid disconnect, and an recommended rail system. If you won&#8217;t want to fuss with buying all these elements separately, you may be considering purchasing a Solar Grid-Tie System.</p>
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<h3>Grid-Tie Kits:</h3>
<p>Affordable Solar offers pre-assembled Grid-Tie systems. Our popular system&#8217;s were mounted by many of our readers with a lot of good results. This system includes the entire equipment you&#8217;d probably need, such as product/installation instructions, mounting rails, and clamps for your solar panels.</p>
<h3>Work:</h3>
<p>Most solar energy systems are put together by the those who purchase them. In case you are uncomfortable setting up a system, Affordable Solar can suggest a Photovoltaic installation technician who can help with building a solar pv system.</p>
<p>An additional thought regarding labor costs: even when you&#8217;re comfortable putting together your solar energy kit, we extremely suggest contacting or selecting an electrician to connect your system to your Alternating current system.</p>
<h3>What is the conclusion?</h3>
<p>The GTS 3600 W system above will cost you something like $26,thousand.</p>
<p>Delivery is around $600 to any area within the continental US.</p>
<p>Without having a pitched roof (or want to mount panels on the ground), UniRac titlt legs cost an extra $1,100.</p>
<p>For the 3,600 watt system, you can count on an installation cost of $5,700 &#8211; $6,500.</p>
<p>(Installation, when you decide to go that route, may usually be estimated at about $1.75/watt.)</p>
<p>Consequently for this system you could potentially estimate kit as well as installation at about $32,500.</p>
<h3>What exactly is my incentive in order to choose a solar panel system?</h3>
<p>Many people connect solar technology with remote installations and off-grid implementations. In those situations the choice may be a fairly easy one, in towns and cities you may still find good reasons to consider solar panel technology as a supplement and substitute for electric utility power grids.</p>
<p>The top reason could be the reduction in utility expenses. As soon as your system is functioning, it takes no monthly costs and no maintenance (and most components are usually guaranteed). While it runs, it also lowers your power charges. Eventually it will probably pay for itself and keep costing you less. Big systems may even make you cash by giving you never ending credit with your power company .</p>
<p>Not only is your investment gonna help you save money as well as pay for itself, but photo voltaic installations regularly boost home price in both industrial and non commercial settings. Adding a solar energy system to your residence or small business will also supplement the investment you have made in your property.</p>
<p>An excellent incentive&#8211;many states (and today the government) provide refunds and also bonuses for implementing solar pv systems. !</p>
<p>Ultimately, solar power is really a clean way to obtain alternative energy. It lowers dependence on non-renewable fuels in a useful and efficient approach, helping keep the environment clean.</p>
<h3>But where do I start?</h3>
<p>Starting out may appear just like a challenging activity, but it isn&#8217;t as difficult as it first appears. Using just an electric bill, you are able to determine the minimum system size you will need. As soon as you have established that, you are able to find out how many solar panels you will need, and find compatible components from there.</p>
<p>To start, you will need the average month-to-month electric use&#8211;which you should be able to get in your energy bill. This number will probably be in kwh (kilowatt-hours).</p>
<p>Follow these actions to find out your minimum system size:</p>
<p>Record average kWH electrical use: __________kWH</p>
<p>Multiply line 1 by the percentage you want the solar system to produce: __________kWH ie: 1000kWH X 50% = 500kWH</p>
<p>Divide by 30 for the daily output from your solar power system: __________kW</p>
<p>Divide by the daily average sun hours for your location: __________kW 6 in Sun Belt, 4in NE / NW</p>
<p>Divide by 70% to compensate for system efficiency: __________kW</p>
<h3><img src="../wp-content/uploads//2010/06/Arrow-Right.png" alt="" width="25" height="25" /> <a rel="nofollow" href="../?link=Find-Solar-Contractor-2" target="_blank">You Could Get a FREE Solar Power Kit – CLICK HERE!</a></h3>
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