PV Gap

Leona Said:

Solar/Wind Power.?

We Answered:

There grid-tie and non grid-tie systems depending on what you desire to install. A grid-tied system is tapped into the power lines and feeds your unused energy back to the local power company for a credit balance on your electric bill. A non grid tied system would not sell back your unused energy to the power company but would instead be a closed end system for your own use. In this type of system, you would want to have extra storage capability so as not to waste any captured energy. The most efficient solar panels on the market as of current are 17% efficient at capturing energy, however new cells have just been invented that are as much as 43% efficient (meaning you can use less of them to be just as efficient, also saving space). Grid-tied systems will usually cost you $20k+ while non grid tied systems would cost you less to install. Your savings may differ depending on how many panels you install versus how much energy you consume, so it's hard to estimate your monthly savings. Typically witihin grid-tied systems, your electric bill will be less than $10 a month and you should be able to power everything in your home (dryers, washers, refrigerators, air conditioning/heating, etc).

Claude Said:

Has anyone had any experience with wind power?

We Answered:

http://www.lookout2000.com/windpower/

Johnnie Said:

solar and wind turbine power?

We Answered:

Look at some back issues of Mother Earth News. There are often articles about people building energy self-sufficient homes.