PV Gap

Evelyn Said:

Why do train cars have solar panels?

We Answered:

The solar panel is for charging a battery.The cars are hopper cars that can be dumped by a remote signal.

ghost train? LMAO! yeah right

Edwin Said:

how big must a solar panel be to power a train?

We Answered:

is this a passenger train or a freight train?
the weights are very different.
is it running day and night, or only between 10am and 3pm?
quite clearly, panels just on the engine(s) will not be enough.
panels on all of the cars might be, but i think it unlikely.
consider how large these panels are, and how light the cars that they're driving are.

http://www.speedace.info/solar_racing_ev…
http://www.google.com/images?q=solar+car…

with a heavy train, it's just not going to happen.

Lawrence Said:

Since Solar panels are becoming popular. Where can I get the training to install, maintain, and repair them?

We Answered:

If you're already a journeyman, I think you're 90% there. There is an expanded federal tax credit for photovoltaic panels coming on line next year, so solar installation companies may be getting a boost in business, at least in areas where the people are not hurting from the economy. And when the economy improves, it only gets better.

Photovoltaic panels rarely need maintenance or repair. If something goes wrong, it's likely to be simple and catastrophic, such as lightning hit it, or a bullet, or a falling tree.

As for installation, a number of panels are wired in series (it's all plug and play, with the new MC-3 connectors), and then the wires go into a junction box. From there, it's all stuff you already know, wire gauge appropriate for the current, insulation rating for the temperature, conduit fill factors, compliance with the NEC, etc., all the way down to the inverter and service panel. It's not that different from adding a new circuit to somebody's house.

Your best move may be to work for a solar installation company for a while. They can use your skills with the hookup, and you can learn how they architect a system based on the customer's energy use, and how they do the physical installation.

Willie Said:

what industry has more growing jobs and is growing faster?? wind turbines or solar panels?

We Answered:

Firstly, your very lucky there in california as either way would actually be pretty good.

Solar will be bigger than wind for many years to come as there are many more companies investing in solar panels as they require a lot less maintenance. This could be a good reason to go into wind, More money, less work. Being in california you may have enough work either way. Maybe do both? Might sound weird but there are many companies employing people that know about both. Solar companies that want to expand into wind but cant afford 2 experts might want a join expert.