PV Gap

Melissa Said:

What majors to pursue for energy/solar power job?

We Answered:

Many universities offer solar engineering classes for mechanical engineers. The design of hot water and wind power systems deal with the sciences that they have studied.

Photovoltaic systems lean more towards the electrical engineering side of engineering.

Larry Said:

How can we bring solar power energy to our streets?

We Answered:

Until compact onsite electrical storage becomes practical, it's better to have centralized solar power stations feeding power to the electrical grid, because 1) the wiring to the lamps are already in place and/or are necessary anyway for times of no sun, and 2) greater efficiencies and easier maintenance is possible at large solar power installations than with thousands of small solar collectors. However, independent "off the grid" solar powered devices is the trend. For example, through fuel cell technology, compact solar energy storage may become possible and practical, in which case high efficiency street lamps may go off the grid, thereby reducing wiring needs.

I came accross a new, proven and tested home made wind power system and solar power system which eliminates our electricity bills. It was written by a Renewable energy enthusiasts Michael Harvey the diy called Earth4energy. You can get your copy to save energy and help environment while eliminating your power bills. Get it from here: http://homemadeenergyreviews.blogspot.com/

Leo Said:

What majors to pursue for energy/solar power jobs?

We Answered:

Hi there,

Engineering wouldn't be a bad field for something like alternative energy. I know that's kind of general, but maybe there is something else specifically within engineering, that may cater to solar energy, wind energy, wave energy, etc..

I guess it really depends in the school you are in, and what kind of variety with the majors that they offer.

Lori Said:

How does solar energy create power for us to use?

We Answered:

Begin with the Wikipedia website.

Then look for specifics:
The energy from the Sun gives us light and heat.
The more energetic light photons can be used to knock off electrons from some atoms; the electrons can then flow through wires for electricity (photovolatic cells).
The heat from the sun evaporates water from oceans, forms clouds, rain on mountain sides: brooks, creeks, rivers... The solar energy is "stored" in the water currents as water flows back to the ocean. We intercept it to make turbines run (hydro-electricity).
Plants absorb the energy of Sunlight (chlorophyl). In trees, this becomes fibrous materials which, when buried for thousands of years, become coal. When we burn coal, we "release" the stored solar energy.
Animals eat plants (which, themselves, represent stored solar energy) and, when they are buried for thousands of year, turn to petroleum.

Cathy Said:

How much will it cost to install a solar energy power to run a few appliances such as lights,tv,e-fans?

We Answered:

I would not bother... You will not get your money back on the savings..........

Mattie Said:

How can we use solar energy / Solar power for household purpose.?

We Answered:

The use of solar panels are the only viable method as they can be used to heat water. Water heating in a house is a very costly exercise by electricity at nearly 20pence for a KWHour.
Even if they are only effective for only 8 months in a year there is a saving.
The cost of installing them is quite high so if you are only thinking of economics the pay back time is many years. If you are looking to cut down on green house gases then this is a good first step.
The next thing to consider is to put a good thick layer of insulation in your loft and have cavity fill insulation in the external walls of your house.
Double glazing will cut down on heat losses and therefore reduce your fuel bills.
Make sure that your hot water cylinder is well lagged.
Turn the heating thermostat(s) down a little and you will not notice the difference. The fuel consumption will go down though.
I have done all this and in my 3 bedroom house, cooking by electricity and gas central heating my total fuel bill is £550.00 per year