PV Gap

Herman Said:

How is the progress in solar energy advancing?

We Answered:

It's advancing more rapidly. Now Bush has come out of the woodwork and given more companies incentive to go solar (now that his popularity level is at an all-time low.) I know that Germany produces more solar power than any other country in the world and they receive less annual sunlight than they do in Seattle. Spain is also investing heavily in solar energy. They're building a large heliostat outside of Madrid. In Australia, the world's largest solar power plant is just getting underway. The solar tower will be twice the height of The Empire State Building.

Rose Said:

Where can I find a solar energy air conditioner and stove that use less than 500 watts?

We Answered:

I don't know if I can answer your question in the fashion you wish it to be answered. I don't know of any specific manufacturer which makes either a solar powered A/C unit or stove. There are many smaller appliances that are solar powered or portable solar arrays to power small appliances.

To give you an idea, a portable room A/C unit uses 1200 watt to start the unit and 1000 watts to run. With my simple mind, it would take at least 6 @ 200 watts panels or more (I'm do not have any solar power training, so consult a professional). If you are looking to go green for your home, look into purchasing a solar system. The price has been falling over the years and the technology has been improving. In addition, there are many grants and tax incentives to make it more affordable. Solar system are making more economic sense today.

Jesse Said:

Is there such a thing as solar windows that can be used for energy?

We Answered:

yes there is a solar film that can go over your windows (like a tint).

Reginald Said:

What are your favorites "green" products?

We Answered:

I believe that products that create the biggest impacts will be products you use frequently.
Some examples would be:
Eco-Friendly Household Cleaners
Reusable Bags
Efficient Lighting
Recycling Products

Items like solar phone chargers and wind energy radios for the most part seem to just cash in on the "green" label and either don't function correctly, are too costly, or just useless.

I am willing to pay more for an eco-friendly product if it is well made and if I'm sure that it really is a greener alternative.

Lloyd Said:

Where in Ireland can you buy energy saving and eco friendly products?

We Answered:

www.solarenergyireland.com

Bertha Said:

What self producing energy products out there can actually save you money in your household?

We Answered:

Windmill and solar are best, in fact there are many folks that have installed windmills as energy producers for their homes and in fact sell the excess enrgy back to PG&E. In most cases the amont of energy sold back to the utility company exceeds their monthly power bills thus at the end of the month they have an energy check instead of a bill.

Samuel Said:

They tell us, look after the environment, so why do they charge so much for solar products ie Hot Water etc?

We Answered:

There are a lot of very economical an sensible solutions to energy usage.

Though painting your roof white might work, I doubt thats what you had in mind :)

The media does say solar a lot because its blue and shiny, and easy to talk about without technical explaniations.

...and you are correct: solar is very expensive (even after tax deductions)

The media is generally not interested in you saving power, they are interested in you listening. There are many very economical ways to save power that never reach the news.


Here are some real suggestions that won't cost nearly as much and will save you real power:

1. Add insulation to your attic. A local HVAC company can quote you on this. The larger the R-value the better.


2. Install a solar attic fan. This will save a tremendous amount on your air conditioning bill.

http://www.aurorapower.net/products/cate…


3. Install a double stage evaporative cooler. It is the most efficent airconditioner avalible, with 30% tax credit from the feds. It has strangely received little attention from the media.

http://www.aurorapower.net/products/cate…


4. Install a simple solar hot air system to a south facing wall. This will cut back on your heating bills.

http://www.aurorapower.net/products/list…



Hope these help.