Wherever you live, you’ve probably seen solar panels. They are devised of silicon and other materials and are attached to a building’s roof. From there, they absorb the sun’s rays and convert them into power for the building. Modern panels are incredibly efficient. All of a building’s heat, air conditioning and electrical needs can be covered by the panels, with no reliance on the fossil fuel-based whatsoever. A couple who live in the California desert dropped their summer electric bill from $300 a month to $3, simply by installing solar panels.
There are two problems with individual solar panels. One is that they are obviously attached to the house and can spoil the aesthetic lines. They look futuristic, which may not work well on an adobe house in New Mexico, for example. Many people shrink from buying them, even if they are avid environmentalists, just for this reason. One likes one’s home to look attractive.
The more unfortunate problem with solar panels is that they have recently become the target of thieves. As an increasing number of people are installing solar panels, a black market has cropped up and thieves have become expert in quickly and quietly dislodging the panels and selling them for a tidy sum. Efforts are underway to make them harder to remove and easier to trace, but it’s still a headache one wants to avoid.
One great way to solve these problems would be to install solar shingles. They look just like regular ceramic shingles but with the added ability to collect power from the sun. They are designed to blend in with the roof, in some cases making the roof look more attractive. They solve the problem of thief because they are harder to remove and cannot be easily spotted from a distance.
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Solar power roof tiles are continually evolving to become more versatile and attractive, so that they are not just on the roof; they also become a seamless part of the roof. Most panels are deep blue in color and blend well with the average brown, gray or slate of most roofs. Anyone who has been unimpressed with the grid-like look of the standard panels (although these too are constantly evolving) will be delighted to see that the solar tiles look very like standard roof tiles. The only thing that might be noticed is a glint of them in the sun.
Not only can you get tiles that look like shingles, increasingly, you can get tiles that are wavy to work on a Spanish-style roof. The industry is working hard to keep you from having any excuse not to invest in this eco-friendly step to save power and cash.
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There are very few companies in south florida who can install solar shingles properly and Fl Green Energy is one of them. Based in Aventura they have properly licensed contractors to help you not only get the best looking solar titles but also help make sure you get all the rebates and tax credits you deserve.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Monday, June 22, 2009
Flicker Plunder & Loot!
In a time of recession and job losses the FPL group has deiced that it would be a good time to ask for a rate increase. People are strapped for cash, dealing with layoffs, pay cuts and furloughs. Florida's unemployment rate now tops 10 percent, and we're among the nation's leaders in home foreclosures. Yet in FPL land, executives enjoy 10 percent increases in their pay packages and get to fly private jets to annual physicals. In its rate-hike request, FPL said it needs a 12.5 percent return on equity to attract investors. Here’s some interesting reading from Standard & Poor’s, the credit rating agency that also publishes stock research and analysis. Last week, the firm’s Outlook website highlighted FPL Group as its “focus stock of the week.” It rated FPL group a “strong buy” and projected the stock price (which opened this morning at $57.05) would have a 12-month target price of $68.
An excerpt from the report:
“This past March, FP&L filed a petition with the FPSC requesting an increase in its authorized rate base that, if approved as requested, could increase annual year-over-year retail base revenues by about $1 billion in 2010 and by an additional $250 million in 2011.
While we do not anticipate the FPSC approving the requested increase in its entirety, the regulatory environment in Florida has been historically constructive, and we expect FP&L to receive a good portion of the requested hike.”
“The regulatory environment in Florida has been historically constructive.” Translation -- Florida regulators don’t stand in the way of utilities (and their investors) from making big bucks, even in the toughest of times for everyone else.
Ah, good old Flicker Plunder & Loot. Always trying to get more money instead of investing what they already make in supporting a Feed in Tariff. Instead of innovation and moving forward and helping out the recession FPL is planning on biting the hands that feed it. I know how hard it is to deliver power in this region, what with all the thunderstorms and hurricanes. Especially for a publicly regulated monopoly that's guaranteed a profit no matter what.
In my opinion what we need now more than ever is a FARE policy with either Feed in Tariffs or a respectable Renewable Portfolio Standard in our state. That compiled with the already great tax credits and rebates we get should be more than enough reason to install solar thermal in your house today. If we don’t stop Flicker Plunder & Loot now they will just get greedier and greedier in the coming years.
To have your say, send comments to the PSC Clerk, 2540 Shumard Oak Blvd., Tallahassee, FL, 32399-0850. Or e-mail the commission at contact@psc.state.fl.us or fax 800-511-0809. Refer to FPL rate increase/Docket 080677-EI.
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An excerpt from the report:
“This past March, FP&L filed a petition with the FPSC requesting an increase in its authorized rate base that, if approved as requested, could increase annual year-over-year retail base revenues by about $1 billion in 2010 and by an additional $250 million in 2011.
While we do not anticipate the FPSC approving the requested increase in its entirety, the regulatory environment in Florida has been historically constructive, and we expect FP&L to receive a good portion of the requested hike.”
“The regulatory environment in Florida has been historically constructive.” Translation -- Florida regulators don’t stand in the way of utilities (and their investors) from making big bucks, even in the toughest of times for everyone else.
Ah, good old Flicker Plunder & Loot. Always trying to get more money instead of investing what they already make in supporting a Feed in Tariff. Instead of innovation and moving forward and helping out the recession FPL is planning on biting the hands that feed it. I know how hard it is to deliver power in this region, what with all the thunderstorms and hurricanes. Especially for a publicly regulated monopoly that's guaranteed a profit no matter what.
In my opinion what we need now more than ever is a FARE policy with either Feed in Tariffs or a respectable Renewable Portfolio Standard in our state. That compiled with the already great tax credits and rebates we get should be more than enough reason to install solar thermal in your house today. If we don’t stop Flicker Plunder & Loot now they will just get greedier and greedier in the coming years.
To have your say, send comments to the PSC Clerk, 2540 Shumard Oak Blvd., Tallahassee, FL, 32399-0850. Or e-mail the commission at contact@psc.state.fl.us or fax 800-511-0809. Refer to FPL rate increase/Docket 080677-EI.
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Monday, June 15, 2009
RPS
Electricity from “renewable” sources is fast becoming a multipurpose remedy that will alleviate energy scarcities, abate air pollution, and mitigate climate change. Advocates of renewable energy have a lot to be happy about lately. First they got the stimulus package of their dreams, packed with tax credits and grants and loan programs intended to restart their industry. Now they are turning their attention to the next item on their wish list: a national renewable portfolio standard. President Obama has called for 10 percent of the nation’s electricity to come from renewable sources by 2012, and 25 percent by 2025.
A renewable portfolio standard (RPS) is a regulation that requires the increased production of energy from renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, biomass, and geothermal. The NPS will be part of a comprehensive energy bill that contains provisions on everything from the “smart grid” to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The bill would initiate a federal minimum standard mandating retail energy suppliers to diversify their portfolios with the first requirement of six percent for 2012, and consistently increase thereafter until meeting the 2025 goal of 20 percent.
This bill also allows individual states to enact their own RPS type of mechanisms. So far 27 states have acted and created their own RPS type of mechanism. Four of the 27 states have voluntary rather than mandatory goals. Together these 27 states account for more than 42 percent of the electricity sales in the United States. On Friday January 9, 2009 the Florida Public Service Commission unanimously agreed to require the state's utilities to generate 20 percent of their power from renewable resources by 2020.
This will drastically change the landscape for renewable energy applications for a state that gets less than 3 percent of its power from renewable energy. The proposal calls for 7 percent renewable energy by January 2013, 12 percent by 2016, 18 percent by 2019 and 20 percent by end of 2020.
One of the main advantages of the new bill will be increased job growth. Green jobs have seen a steady incline since 2001. Many reports say that a national “renewable electricity standard” set at 25 percent by 2025 would translate into 297,000 new green jobs. Some jobs would be lost in fossil-fuel industries like coal or natural gas. If those are factored in, according to the report, the net number of jobs gained becomes 202,000.
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A renewable portfolio standard (RPS) is a regulation that requires the increased production of energy from renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, biomass, and geothermal. The NPS will be part of a comprehensive energy bill that contains provisions on everything from the “smart grid” to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The bill would initiate a federal minimum standard mandating retail energy suppliers to diversify their portfolios with the first requirement of six percent for 2012, and consistently increase thereafter until meeting the 2025 goal of 20 percent.
This bill also allows individual states to enact their own RPS type of mechanisms. So far 27 states have acted and created their own RPS type of mechanism. Four of the 27 states have voluntary rather than mandatory goals. Together these 27 states account for more than 42 percent of the electricity sales in the United States. On Friday January 9, 2009 the Florida Public Service Commission unanimously agreed to require the state's utilities to generate 20 percent of their power from renewable resources by 2020.
This will drastically change the landscape for renewable energy applications for a state that gets less than 3 percent of its power from renewable energy. The proposal calls for 7 percent renewable energy by January 2013, 12 percent by 2016, 18 percent by 2019 and 20 percent by end of 2020.
One of the main advantages of the new bill will be increased job growth. Green jobs have seen a steady incline since 2001. Many reports say that a national “renewable electricity standard” set at 25 percent by 2025 would translate into 297,000 new green jobs. Some jobs would be lost in fossil-fuel industries like coal or natural gas. If those are factored in, according to the report, the net number of jobs gained becomes 202,000.
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Friday, June 12, 2009
FAREness!
Florida is known as the sunshine state. We brag about how much more sun we get then anyone else. Wouldn’t it be great to use that solar energy for ourselves? We all know about solar PV and solar thermal and the benefits towards the environment and our bills. We know we can save money but wouldn’t it be great if we could get paid for contributing our energy to the grid. Well that is the mission behind FARE.
The Florida Alliance for Renewable Energy “FARE” is a coalition of concerned individuals, businesses, communities, associations, policy makers, non-profits, and renewable energy producers. FARE has 3 simple goals job creation, energy Independence, environmental stewardship. FARE is a grassroots organization that is dedicated to educating and engaging Floridians on Renewable Energy Dividends. RED’s have proven to be the most wide-spread and effective legislation for the promotion of renewable energy.
Renewable Energy Dividends is the same concept they have in Europe. In Europe they are called “feed in tariffs” no matter the name difference they both have the same ideas. A simple and commonsense approach to encouraging everyone to use renewable energies. All producers big and small, private and commercial, get paid a premium for each kilowatt hour they feed back into the system. This very simple idea is already being experimented with in Gainesville which is in northern Florida. It seems to be a success as they have just increased the limit of renewable energies to 4 megawatts a year. This policy has tripled the solar state’s capacity over night.
The principals behind this idea are simple and realistic because unlike renewable energy certificates they benefit everyone from the small homeowner to the huge corporations. The idea is that everyone who produces any amount of renewable energy is given a contract by the utilities and are guaranteed a rate for a certain number of years. In order to encourage growth these premiums have to be set high. No worries about the utilities losing money, they can always just pass it on to the consumers.
Why use REDs?
* Job creation
* Energy Security
* Simplicity
* Stability and Investment
* Fairness
* Equality
I encourage you to go to FARE now in order to find out more about how you can personally support the cause. Prepare youself for when this policy comes into effect and be a pioneer in your communityby checking out FL Green Energy. They can help get you a solar panel into your house right away.
The Florida Alliance for Renewable Energy “FARE” is a coalition of concerned individuals, businesses, communities, associations, policy makers, non-profits, and renewable energy producers. FARE has 3 simple goals job creation, energy Independence, environmental stewardship. FARE is a grassroots organization that is dedicated to educating and engaging Floridians on Renewable Energy Dividends. RED’s have proven to be the most wide-spread and effective legislation for the promotion of renewable energy.
Renewable Energy Dividends is the same concept they have in Europe. In Europe they are called “feed in tariffs” no matter the name difference they both have the same ideas. A simple and commonsense approach to encouraging everyone to use renewable energies. All producers big and small, private and commercial, get paid a premium for each kilowatt hour they feed back into the system. This very simple idea is already being experimented with in Gainesville which is in northern Florida. It seems to be a success as they have just increased the limit of renewable energies to 4 megawatts a year. This policy has tripled the solar state’s capacity over night.
The principals behind this idea are simple and realistic because unlike renewable energy certificates they benefit everyone from the small homeowner to the huge corporations. The idea is that everyone who produces any amount of renewable energy is given a contract by the utilities and are guaranteed a rate for a certain number of years. In order to encourage growth these premiums have to be set high. No worries about the utilities losing money, they can always just pass it on to the consumers.
Why use REDs?
* Job creation
* Energy Security
* Simplicity
* Stability and Investment
* Fairness
* Equality
I encourage you to go to FARE now in order to find out more about how you can personally support the cause. Prepare youself for when this policy comes into effect and be a pioneer in your communityby checking out FL Green Energy. They can help get you a solar panel into your house right away.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Advancements
The latest and greatest achievement in the war against global warming and soaring electric bills comes in the form of solar energy. We hear about incentives and reducing carbon foot prints and saving the planet by installing these modern miracles. It seems in this oil addicted world that solar energy is modern and high-tech. In reality we have been experimenting with solar panels since before World War II. Your grandparents probably had one installed, especially if they lived in Miami during the 1940s. Floridians purchased or shipped to the Caribbean more than 100,000 thermosyphon or passive solar water heaters between 1930 and 1954 when the industry collapsed. During the Second World War (1942 to 1945) copper was reserved for the military and the industry was not able to make solar collectors.
After the war, the Florida industry boomed again for about six years. Half of Miami homes had solar water heaters with over 80% of new homes having them installed. In the early 1950’s electricity became cheap in Florida and utility companies, such as FPL, gave away electric water heaters and tanks in an effort to eliminate the solar water heating industry. It seems that every energy crisis that the country faces it wants to experiment with renewable energies, the most common being solar energy. As the years progressed so has the technology and these new solar thermal systems are not your grandfather’s panels.
Older solar systems worked well especially in their time. A basic setup was a “Passive system” where it collected water on the panel and heated it up and stored in inside of the panel. When that water left it would just get more cold water from the city, which was fine for sunny summer days. When it was cloudy or rainy there was no way to heat up enough water. It was the major problem holding the industry back.
Some new solar advancements:
• “Active system” where it is pumped continuously from the storage tank to the collector. It uses temperature sensors, when the water in the storage tank becomes colder then the water in the collector a pump is activated and the water is pushed back through the collector until it is the perfect temperature. It ensures that it is at a perfect temperature no matter what time of the day it is.
• “Pump” the main part of the active system is a pump that can actively move water around. Fl Green Energy is one of the few companies that install a small PV panel so you never have to use any sort of electricity.
• “Temperature sensors” is the way the pump can tell when it needs to put more water back into the collector. Active systems install two, one in the storage and one in the collector.
• “Mixing valve” help maintain a perfect temperature by mixing in cold water when the water gets too hot by the use of a temperature cut off switch. It allows the owner to set a max temperature so you can never accidentally burn yourself.
• “Electric backup” isn’t a new innovation but a great tool nonetheless. It makes sure that even during emergencies you can still get hot water. I have found that little to none of the installations FL Green Energy has done needed to use their electric back up. Although it’s still great to have it.
• “Storage Tank” is the main difference between the Active and Passive systems. It is the most important part of the system, because it can hold and keep warm a whole day’s worth of water or about 80-120 gallons. “R-16” is the most commonly used tank for the storage of solar water.
• “Installation” is the toughest of the new advancements. Especially in South Florida where we are hurricane prone and need extra protection from the winds. The contractor of Fl Green Energy uses a stricter code then Miami-Dade county does especially when it comes down to the installation.
We have come a long way in the usage of solar panels. From basic passive systems to smart active systems with electric back up. Over the years they have become more efficient in the way we get the water to the way we can store it. It means less owner involvement and more hot water. Tougher codes mean it will be attached securely and efficiently. Over time the technology will continue to get better and cheaper.
After the war, the Florida industry boomed again for about six years. Half of Miami homes had solar water heaters with over 80% of new homes having them installed. In the early 1950’s electricity became cheap in Florida and utility companies, such as FPL, gave away electric water heaters and tanks in an effort to eliminate the solar water heating industry. It seems that every energy crisis that the country faces it wants to experiment with renewable energies, the most common being solar energy. As the years progressed so has the technology and these new solar thermal systems are not your grandfather’s panels.
Older solar systems worked well especially in their time. A basic setup was a “Passive system” where it collected water on the panel and heated it up and stored in inside of the panel. When that water left it would just get more cold water from the city, which was fine for sunny summer days. When it was cloudy or rainy there was no way to heat up enough water. It was the major problem holding the industry back.
Some new solar advancements:
• “Active system” where it is pumped continuously from the storage tank to the collector. It uses temperature sensors, when the water in the storage tank becomes colder then the water in the collector a pump is activated and the water is pushed back through the collector until it is the perfect temperature. It ensures that it is at a perfect temperature no matter what time of the day it is.
• “Pump” the main part of the active system is a pump that can actively move water around. Fl Green Energy is one of the few companies that install a small PV panel so you never have to use any sort of electricity.
• “Temperature sensors” is the way the pump can tell when it needs to put more water back into the collector. Active systems install two, one in the storage and one in the collector.
• “Mixing valve” help maintain a perfect temperature by mixing in cold water when the water gets too hot by the use of a temperature cut off switch. It allows the owner to set a max temperature so you can never accidentally burn yourself.
• “Electric backup” isn’t a new innovation but a great tool nonetheless. It makes sure that even during emergencies you can still get hot water. I have found that little to none of the installations FL Green Energy has done needed to use their electric back up. Although it’s still great to have it.
• “Storage Tank” is the main difference between the Active and Passive systems. It is the most important part of the system, because it can hold and keep warm a whole day’s worth of water or about 80-120 gallons. “R-16” is the most commonly used tank for the storage of solar water.
• “Installation” is the toughest of the new advancements. Especially in South Florida where we are hurricane prone and need extra protection from the winds. The contractor of Fl Green Energy uses a stricter code then Miami-Dade county does especially when it comes down to the installation.
We have come a long way in the usage of solar panels. From basic passive systems to smart active systems with electric back up. Over the years they have become more efficient in the way we get the water to the way we can store it. It means less owner involvement and more hot water. Tougher codes mean it will be attached securely and efficiently. Over time the technology will continue to get better and cheaper.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Money!
In today’s world you can’t turn on the news or radio without hearing about the joys and wonders of solar energy. News report are stating that all the big corporations are switching to solar. Everyone from Walmart, Publix, Kohl, and the list expands everyday. What is behind this surge of sudden interest in renewable energy?
It seems that driving factor behind the continuing surge in commercial and residential solar installations is lucrative solar incentives not so much of environmental concern. At its core solar power is still quite expensive, due mainly to the high cost of solar panels. Yet, regardless of price, the need to implement clean, alternative energy sources is growing even faster than the industry itself. That is why many utilities, municipalities, states, and the federal government have stepped in to provide financial incentives for homeowners looking to make the switch from conventional, fossil-fueled energy.
First, the federal government has a tax rebate for anyone who puts in a solar system. There are three different types of system you could install and still get the incentives. Solar PV, solar thermal (solar hot water), and a solar pool heater. Thanks to American Recovery and Reinvestment Act 2009, homeowners have at least one universal and substantial option available to them. Here is what to expect from the Feds over the next eight years (look for the Obama administration to juice up the pot even more!):
* Solar PV Tax Credit. With the $2,000 cap removed, homeowners can now appreciate the full 30% tax credit on solar system equipment and installation. For a $40,000 photovoltaic system, you can expect to save $12,000 in tax credits. This is usually factored into financing options, a hefty gain over the maximum $2,000 credit of yesteryear.
* Solar Thermal Hot Water and Solar Pool Heating Systems Credit. That 30% credit stands for solar hot water systems as well. Because SHW is much cheaper than PV systems, the difference between now and then is a tad more negligible (although it benefits co-ops and multi-family housing significantly), but still results in a good chunk of savings.
Think of something you’ve been wanting to buy, but the price is a stretch. Suddenly you can get a discount of 30% or more! Although that is a great start and would be more then enough for anybody to install one of these systems in their home or building the state wants to help out even more.
Each indivdual state offers a rebate program, it varies from state to state. Here I will focus on the Florida rebate program.
* Solar PV Rebate. Currently Florida offers $4/watt. At a max of $20,000 for residential and $100,000 for commercial. No wonder the big companies want to use solar power. That means for a basic 4Kwatt system you could receive a $16,000 check!
* Solar Thermal Hot Water Rebate. As long as the system provides 50% or more, which it usually does. Then Florida offers a nice $500 rebate check for residential and$ 5,000 for commercial and multi-family buildings.
* Solar Pool Heater Rebate. A simple solar pool heater will only get you a $100 rebate check. That is still very reasonable because the Solar pool systems don’t cost too much.
While these incentives are great for big companies that can afford an entire PV system a PV still wouldn’t be affordable to the everyday middle-class household. The best bet to reduce your bill and save the environment is to use these federal and state incentives is to get an affordable solar hot water heater. Fl Green is a new fully licensed solar company based in Miami, they can help you install everything from commercial PV systems to small residential solar thermal systems.
However there is a catch, you must have it installed by a state-licensed solar or plumbing contractor or a certified general contractor. They also must remeber to pull a permit. Most companies tend not to get one to save the consumer money and in the end ruin their chance of getting these incentives. The good news is these are easy to come by and FLAseia is a great website that list all the Florida solar contractors.
More Information is found at DsireUSA and FL Green Energy.
It seems that driving factor behind the continuing surge in commercial and residential solar installations is lucrative solar incentives not so much of environmental concern. At its core solar power is still quite expensive, due mainly to the high cost of solar panels. Yet, regardless of price, the need to implement clean, alternative energy sources is growing even faster than the industry itself. That is why many utilities, municipalities, states, and the federal government have stepped in to provide financial incentives for homeowners looking to make the switch from conventional, fossil-fueled energy.
First, the federal government has a tax rebate for anyone who puts in a solar system. There are three different types of system you could install and still get the incentives. Solar PV, solar thermal (solar hot water), and a solar pool heater. Thanks to American Recovery and Reinvestment Act 2009, homeowners have at least one universal and substantial option available to them. Here is what to expect from the Feds over the next eight years (look for the Obama administration to juice up the pot even more!):
* Solar PV Tax Credit. With the $2,000 cap removed, homeowners can now appreciate the full 30% tax credit on solar system equipment and installation. For a $40,000 photovoltaic system, you can expect to save $12,000 in tax credits. This is usually factored into financing options, a hefty gain over the maximum $2,000 credit of yesteryear.
* Solar Thermal Hot Water and Solar Pool Heating Systems Credit. That 30% credit stands for solar hot water systems as well. Because SHW is much cheaper than PV systems, the difference between now and then is a tad more negligible (although it benefits co-ops and multi-family housing significantly), but still results in a good chunk of savings.
Think of something you’ve been wanting to buy, but the price is a stretch. Suddenly you can get a discount of 30% or more! Although that is a great start and would be more then enough for anybody to install one of these systems in their home or building the state wants to help out even more.
Each indivdual state offers a rebate program, it varies from state to state. Here I will focus on the Florida rebate program.
* Solar PV Rebate. Currently Florida offers $4/watt. At a max of $20,000 for residential and $100,000 for commercial. No wonder the big companies want to use solar power. That means for a basic 4Kwatt system you could receive a $16,000 check!
* Solar Thermal Hot Water Rebate. As long as the system provides 50% or more, which it usually does. Then Florida offers a nice $500 rebate check for residential and$ 5,000 for commercial and multi-family buildings.
* Solar Pool Heater Rebate. A simple solar pool heater will only get you a $100 rebate check. That is still very reasonable because the Solar pool systems don’t cost too much.
While these incentives are great for big companies that can afford an entire PV system a PV still wouldn’t be affordable to the everyday middle-class household. The best bet to reduce your bill and save the environment is to use these federal and state incentives is to get an affordable solar hot water heater. Fl Green is a new fully licensed solar company based in Miami, they can help you install everything from commercial PV systems to small residential solar thermal systems.
However there is a catch, you must have it installed by a state-licensed solar or plumbing contractor or a certified general contractor. They also must remeber to pull a permit. Most companies tend not to get one to save the consumer money and in the end ruin their chance of getting these incentives. The good news is these are easy to come by and FLAseia is a great website that list all the Florida solar contractors.
More Information is found at DsireUSA and FL Green Energy.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Solar thermal
How a Solar Water Heater works
Have you ever felt warm water trickle out of a garden hose that’s been sitting in the sun?If so, then you’ve witnessed how a solar water heater works.
Now imagine that same water moving slowly though a system specifically designed to heat and store water – that is the essence of a solar water heating system. People have for centuries used water heated by the sun and stored it for bathing, hand washing, cleaning clothes, heating homes and much more. Unlike solar photovoltaic which uses many solar cell in a solar panel to convert the sun’s heat into electricity, the solar thermal systems used today combine the most efficient techniques for capturing the sun’s heat with modern plumbing systems to produce cost effective hot water and reduce the need for gas or electricity to heat water.
First, we need to ask why. An investment in a solar water heater comes with a variety of benefits. By installing a solar water heater you can reduce the environmental impact of conventional water heaters by minimizing the cost of electricity or the amount of fossil fuels used. Efficiency is also a benefit associated with investing in a solar hot water heater with “a typical household [meeting] 50 to 80 percent of their hot water needs.” Compared to a gas water heater or a tank less water heater you don’t need to pay it every month. Most people see pay back in a little as 3 years. Little to no maintenance is what consumers can expect after installation of a solar water heater. Currently, the US Government is offering a wide number of solar incentives to many states for individuals looking to become more energy efficient or implement renewable energy within their household or business. With the amount of money saved on your average utility costs, as well as the rebates offered by your state, an average investor can expect to see a payback of their Solar Water Heater installation within a few years.
Now is the perfect time to start investing for the future and whatever crisis might be over the horizon. Start by visiting http://fl-energy.com/ and getting an energy survey today.
How it works…
How an Open Loop System works
The simple way of saying it is that the system takes in cold-water heats it up and sends it back into the tank. Also known as “Active” or “Open Loop System”. In this type of system there is no antifreeze solution; the water heated directly by the sun is the same water used by building occupants. A thermometer and controller sense when the solar collector is warm and ready to heat water. The controller starts a pump that moves cold water into the solar collector, where it is heated. The solar heated water is then stored in a conventional hot water tank. It is typical, especially during high use or periods of little sun for the water to be kept warm through supplemental gas or electricity.
Solar Pool Heaters
You can significantly reduce swimming pool heating costs by installing a solar pool heater. They’re cost competitive with both gas and heat pump pool water heaters, and they have very low annual operating costs. Actually, solar pool heating is the most cost-effective use of solar energy in many climates. For many pool-owners, extending the life of your pool throughout the seasons usually comes at a steep price, with energy prices increasing on yearly basis. While there are other ways to increase the energy efficiency of your pool, such as investing in pool covers, installing a solar water heater would bring about a fast turnaround on your investment and help you save a significant amount of money in the long run.
How They Work
Solar Pool Heater
Solar Pool Heater
Most solar pool heating systems include the following:
* A solar collector — the device through which pool water is circulated to be heated by the sun
* A filter — removes debris before water is pumped through the collector
* A pump — circulates water through the filter and collector and back to the pool
* A flow control valve — automatic or manual device that diverts pool water through the solar collector.
Pool water is pumped through the filter and then through the solar collector(s), where it is heated before it is returned to the pool. In hot climates, the collector(s) can also be used to cool the pool during peak summer months by circulating the water through the collector(s) at night.
Some systems include sensors and an automatic or manual valve to divert water through the collector(s) when the solar collector temperature is sufficiently greater than the pool temperature. When the collector temperature is similar to the pool temperature, filtered water simply bypasses the collector(s) and is returned to the pool.
Solar pool collectors are made out of different materials or multiple solar cell. The type you’ll need depends on your climate and how you intend to use the collector. If you’ll only be using your pool when temperatures are above freezing, then you’ll probably only need an unglazed collector system. Unglazed collectors don’t include a glass covering (glazing). They are generally made of heavy-duty rubber or plastic treated with an ultraviolet (UV) light inhibitor to extend the life of the panels. Because of their inexpensive parts and simple design, unglazed collectors are usually less expensive than glazed collectors.
Have you ever felt warm water trickle out of a garden hose that’s been sitting in the sun?If so, then you’ve witnessed how a solar water heater works.
Now imagine that same water moving slowly though a system specifically designed to heat and store water – that is the essence of a solar water heating system. People have for centuries used water heated by the sun and stored it for bathing, hand washing, cleaning clothes, heating homes and much more. Unlike solar photovoltaic which uses many solar cell in a solar panel to convert the sun’s heat into electricity, the solar thermal systems used today combine the most efficient techniques for capturing the sun’s heat with modern plumbing systems to produce cost effective hot water and reduce the need for gas or electricity to heat water.
First, we need to ask why. An investment in a solar water heater comes with a variety of benefits. By installing a solar water heater you can reduce the environmental impact of conventional water heaters by minimizing the cost of electricity or the amount of fossil fuels used. Efficiency is also a benefit associated with investing in a solar hot water heater with “a typical household [meeting] 50 to 80 percent of their hot water needs.” Compared to a gas water heater or a tank less water heater you don’t need to pay it every month. Most people see pay back in a little as 3 years. Little to no maintenance is what consumers can expect after installation of a solar water heater. Currently, the US Government is offering a wide number of solar incentives to many states for individuals looking to become more energy efficient or implement renewable energy within their household or business. With the amount of money saved on your average utility costs, as well as the rebates offered by your state, an average investor can expect to see a payback of their Solar Water Heater installation within a few years.
Now is the perfect time to start investing for the future and whatever crisis might be over the horizon. Start by visiting http://fl-energy.com/ and getting an energy survey today.
How it works…
How an Open Loop System works
The simple way of saying it is that the system takes in cold-water heats it up and sends it back into the tank. Also known as “Active” or “Open Loop System”. In this type of system there is no antifreeze solution; the water heated directly by the sun is the same water used by building occupants. A thermometer and controller sense when the solar collector is warm and ready to heat water. The controller starts a pump that moves cold water into the solar collector, where it is heated. The solar heated water is then stored in a conventional hot water tank. It is typical, especially during high use or periods of little sun for the water to be kept warm through supplemental gas or electricity.
Solar Pool Heaters
You can significantly reduce swimming pool heating costs by installing a solar pool heater. They’re cost competitive with both gas and heat pump pool water heaters, and they have very low annual operating costs. Actually, solar pool heating is the most cost-effective use of solar energy in many climates. For many pool-owners, extending the life of your pool throughout the seasons usually comes at a steep price, with energy prices increasing on yearly basis. While there are other ways to increase the energy efficiency of your pool, such as investing in pool covers, installing a solar water heater would bring about a fast turnaround on your investment and help you save a significant amount of money in the long run.
How They Work
Solar Pool Heater
Solar Pool Heater
Most solar pool heating systems include the following:
* A solar collector — the device through which pool water is circulated to be heated by the sun
* A filter — removes debris before water is pumped through the collector
* A pump — circulates water through the filter and collector and back to the pool
* A flow control valve — automatic or manual device that diverts pool water through the solar collector.
Pool water is pumped through the filter and then through the solar collector(s), where it is heated before it is returned to the pool. In hot climates, the collector(s) can also be used to cool the pool during peak summer months by circulating the water through the collector(s) at night.
Some systems include sensors and an automatic or manual valve to divert water through the collector(s) when the solar collector temperature is sufficiently greater than the pool temperature. When the collector temperature is similar to the pool temperature, filtered water simply bypasses the collector(s) and is returned to the pool.
Solar pool collectors are made out of different materials or multiple solar cell. The type you’ll need depends on your climate and how you intend to use the collector. If you’ll only be using your pool when temperatures are above freezing, then you’ll probably only need an unglazed collector system. Unglazed collectors don’t include a glass covering (glazing). They are generally made of heavy-duty rubber or plastic treated with an ultraviolet (UV) light inhibitor to extend the life of the panels. Because of their inexpensive parts and simple design, unglazed collectors are usually less expensive than glazed collectors.
Monday, June 1, 2009
new commerical script
(Company Logo)
Thank you for scheduling a complementary energy evaluation with us. Here we offer you a quick preview of what we will do during your evaluation.
(Man knocking on door)
(Lady answers)
Man: Good Morning/Afternoon, My name is Jason. I am your 7’oclock appointment. (shakes hand) May I come in to start your complementary energy evaluation.
(Man and Woman sitting down)
(Woman offers coffee, Man accepts and thanks)
Man: Before I start I think it would be important to know
· Who I am.
· Why I’m here today.
Man: I am an energy consultant in renewable energy. I work for FL Green Energy and that is part of The Florida Energy Group. Today I am here in connection with a large government campaign on renewable energies. Solar, Wind, Geothermal have all been on the news but many average folk don’t know too much about them. My role is to inform individuals as yourself about these new technologies, which are being promoted by the state and our government. Have you ever heard of these systems?
Woman: Actually on the news I hear about solar all the time but have no idea where or how to get started.
Man: That is ok I will be happy to give you more information after I conduct the complementary energy evaluation
(Show FPL Pie chart)
Man: This is an annual estimate provided by FPL of the average homeowner’s energy consumption. It shows that most of your energy usage comes from heating your water and running your A/C.
(Back to man and woman sitting)
(Man stands up)
Man: Ok lets get started, first stop will be your windows. They are the protectors of your house against the heat.
(Man looks over the windows)
It looks like you have single pane windows. That can easily be solved by installing double and triple paned windows. Or a more economical option would be the installation of storm windows. Also replacing cracked or broken caulk will help you keep the air inside.
(Man looks at the doors)
Weather-stripping is very viable especially in Florida where we need all the cool air to stay inside. Also Storm doors offer insulation at a very affordable price.
(Man looks at thermostat)
Simply by keeping the temperature down to 78 in the summer you can greatly reduce your bill. Also the newer digital thermostats can accurately measure the temperature better and stop the need for the A/C to run constantly.
(Man looks at interior and exterior lights)
Lights are often over looked but with a small investment in CFL bulbs it can greatly reduce your energy consumption. For even greater energy savings you can go with the LED bulbs which can cost down another 30% from your bill.
(Man looks at water heater)
This is one of the most important area of energy consumption. Unlike the others we can actually offer a solution to remove it completely out of the equation and save you up to 45%.
(Man and Woman sitting back down)
Woman: That was very enlightening, I had no idea how easy it was to save money on my bill. Thank you very much young man.
Man: Your welcome. Here are my results and my recommendations…..(Faded out)
(Logo)
Hope you enjoyed this preview. If you have any questions or concerns please
(Contact Information)
If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact us.
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