Solar energy- does anyone know of a DIY way to make a solar collector and transfer that energy to batteries?
Q. I would like to learn about solar energy and how I can make some panels for my home, of course with in a reasonable budget. My goal is to be able to run a refrigerator and fan off of battery. Any ideas out there?
Asked by Ex Californian - Tue Jun 17 14:09:49 2008 - - 2 Answers - 3 Comments
A. If your goal is to save money, it will be hard to do that with solar electricity. You can come out ahead under some circumstances, but powering a refrigerator and a fan is an unlikely one. However, if your goal is to learn about this kind of setup, you could get a kit from (say) Harbor Freight for a few hundred dollars, which will (barely) charge a car battery over a period of a couple weeks. The energy you collect could power a fan for several hours. You could also learn about solar electricity just by searching the web. That way, you don't need to spend any money at all. Our solar setup is documented at That said, there are ways you can save money on energy. A solar hot water heater usually pays for itself over time, depending… [cont.]
Answered by roderick_young - Fri Jun 20 11:22:57 2008
Q. I would like to learn about solar energy and how I can make some panels for my home, of course with in a reasonable budget. My goal is to be able to run a refrigerator and fan off of battery. Any ideas out there?
Asked by Ex Californian - Tue Jun 17 14:09:49 2008 - - 2 Answers - 3 Comments
A. If your goal is to save money, it will be hard to do that with solar electricity. You can come out ahead under some circumstances, but powering a refrigerator and a fan is an unlikely one. However, if your goal is to learn about this kind of setup, you could get a kit from (say) Harbor Freight for a few hundred dollars, which will (barely) charge a car battery over a period of a couple weeks. The energy you collect could power a fan for several hours. You could also learn about solar electricity just by searching the web. That way, you don't need to spend any money at all. Our solar setup is documented at That said, there are ways you can save money on energy. A solar hot water heater usually pays for itself over time, depending… [cont.]
Answered by roderick_young - Fri Jun 20 11:22:57 2008
Can solar car chargers work without having the key to the car turned to accessory?
Q. I am thinking of installing a solar trickle charger in my car. Most of them have a cigarette lighter plug-in for easy installation. But I am not sure they will actually charge the battery. I cannot get power to the cigarette lighter plug-ins without having the key turned to "accessory". If I were to plug in a solar charger, I am afraid that it would not work, simply because no complete circuit to the battery exists while the key is not in the ignition. There are chargers that connect to the battery using alligator clips. But these mean running a separate line to the battery. Is there a solution to this seemingly simple problem?
Asked by vector4tfc - Fri Jun 1 08:43:43 2007 - - 1 Answers - 1 Comments
A. If your cigarette lighter works when the key if off, then yes, the solar charger will work. That will confirm you have popwer to the lighter when the key is off, thus the necessary connection to the battery.
Answered by Jeffrey S - Fri Jun 1 09:09:11 2007
Q. I am thinking of installing a solar trickle charger in my car. Most of them have a cigarette lighter plug-in for easy installation. But I am not sure they will actually charge the battery. I cannot get power to the cigarette lighter plug-ins without having the key turned to "accessory". If I were to plug in a solar charger, I am afraid that it would not work, simply because no complete circuit to the battery exists while the key is not in the ignition. There are chargers that connect to the battery using alligator clips. But these mean running a separate line to the battery. Is there a solution to this seemingly simple problem?
Asked by vector4tfc - Fri Jun 1 08:43:43 2007 - - 1 Answers - 1 Comments
A. If your cigarette lighter works when the key if off, then yes, the solar charger will work. That will confirm you have popwer to the lighter when the key is off, thus the necessary connection to the battery.
Answered by Jeffrey S - Fri Jun 1 09:09:11 2007
How to estimate Solar energy on certain direction pointed surface?
Q. If I mount a flat surface which points to certain constant direction. At certain place of the world. I now need to estimate the maximum amount of Solar radiation energy which this surface can get during certain time. Is there a PC program or an algorithm that can make this estimate for me? The actual problem. I need to know how much maximum energy can I get during a year, if I put solar cells or solar collectors on my house tilted roof? Is there anyone who can somehow help me? Thank you in advance.
Asked by Janis - Mon Mar 29 11:09:29 2010 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments
A. Try looking here: That's the National Renewable Energy Labs site, and will give you insolation (amount of sun) for your area. If you have an ideal location and roof, you would choose, Average, Annual, Flat plate tilted south at latitude. Then a map will come up. This map takes into account weather conditions, too, because it is derived from actual measured data. Thus, a dry, cloudless location such as Phoenix shows more sun than a place with more clouds like Honolulu. Let's say the map says you get 5 hours equivalent sun per day. The word "equivalent" is important, because it factors in that morning and evening sun are weaker than noonday. The number you get means the equivalent of direct, noonday sun for 5 hours, even though it… [cont.]
Answered by roderick_young - Mon Mar 29 11:49:53 2010
Q. If I mount a flat surface which points to certain constant direction. At certain place of the world. I now need to estimate the maximum amount of Solar radiation energy which this surface can get during certain time. Is there a PC program or an algorithm that can make this estimate for me? The actual problem. I need to know how much maximum energy can I get during a year, if I put solar cells or solar collectors on my house tilted roof? Is there anyone who can somehow help me? Thank you in advance.
Asked by Janis - Mon Mar 29 11:09:29 2010 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments
A. Try looking here: That's the National Renewable Energy Labs site, and will give you insolation (amount of sun) for your area. If you have an ideal location and roof, you would choose, Average, Annual, Flat plate tilted south at latitude. Then a map will come up. This map takes into account weather conditions, too, because it is derived from actual measured data. Thus, a dry, cloudless location such as Phoenix shows more sun than a place with more clouds like Honolulu. Let's say the map says you get 5 hours equivalent sun per day. The word "equivalent" is important, because it factors in that morning and evening sun are weaker than noonday. The number you get means the equivalent of direct, noonday sun for 5 hours, even though it… [cont.]
Answered by roderick_young - Mon Mar 29 11:49:53 2010
Does solar screens block out all the light? How much does it cost to use motorize blinds?
Q. I want to block the light from two high ceiling windows but still able to see the outside. Does solar screens block out the light completely? How much does it usually cost for two solar blinds in high ceiling? Motorize blinds cost a fortune at Home depot at Lowes (they told me starting at $400 each with $118 installation fee). Any suggessions?
Asked by muffin - Thu Apr 2 11:27:44 2009 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments
A. Solar screen comes in varying degrees of light blockage,...from 0 to 20% openess,...they are not the cheapest application available, but they are effective in blocking light and heat. Motorization alone does cost approx $550.00 retail from my company as well,.. including installation. That's plus the cost of the blinds. What is your measurement?
Answered by blindsblindsenglewood - Sat Apr 4 14:55:44 2009
Q. I want to block the light from two high ceiling windows but still able to see the outside. Does solar screens block out the light completely? How much does it usually cost for two solar blinds in high ceiling? Motorize blinds cost a fortune at Home depot at Lowes (they told me starting at $400 each with $118 installation fee). Any suggessions?
Asked by muffin - Thu Apr 2 11:27:44 2009 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments
A. Solar screen comes in varying degrees of light blockage,...from 0 to 20% openess,...they are not the cheapest application available, but they are effective in blocking light and heat. Motorization alone does cost approx $550.00 retail from my company as well,.. including installation. That's plus the cost of the blinds. What is your measurement?
Answered by blindsblindsenglewood - Sat Apr 4 14:55:44 2009
How would you use solar energy most efficiently in your home or school?
Q. What time of day tends to be best for charging a solar cell? How does the angle of incidence of light affect the energy output of a solar cell? How is digital multimeter used to measure how much voltage is being produced by the solar cell?
Asked by Sean R - Thu Apr 1 14:12:48 2010 - - 1 Answers - 0 Comments
Q. What time of day tends to be best for charging a solar cell? How does the angle of incidence of light affect the energy output of a solar cell? How is digital multimeter used to measure how much voltage is being produced by the solar cell?
Asked by Sean R - Thu Apr 1 14:12:48 2010 - - 1 Answers - 0 Comments
How much will a solar panel system cost to run a whole house?
Q. I am wondering about the average cost to put solar panels on the average size home. (I know it takes a 3 to 4kw system, I think) Would this power the home all the time? Will there be power left over to sell back to the power company? Just trying to get a clear understanding of solar panels from people that run their homes with solar?
Asked by Will - Sun Dec 6 22:36:04 2009 - - 8 Answers - 0 Comments
A. I have a 3.74 kw dc system. The full cost to have the system installed was $26K. I got a $10K rebate from my utility and a fed tax credit (it has been increased to 30% of the total cost so it would be $7800). Not all utilities will allow your meter to run backwards, mine does. It was estimated my system would pay for it's self in 6.2 years. My city just passed a 20% rate increase, so I should break even much sooner. My system is tied to the grid so I sell them my excess and buy what I need when the sun isn't up. I don't have a storage system. I create about 90% of my summer usage and about 75% of my winter usage. My bills went from about $200 down to about $20 for the summer. In the spring my bills are closer to $10. I highly recommend… [cont.]
Answered by whsgreenmom - Mon Dec 7 12:27:13 2009
Q. I am wondering about the average cost to put solar panels on the average size home. (I know it takes a 3 to 4kw system, I think) Would this power the home all the time? Will there be power left over to sell back to the power company? Just trying to get a clear understanding of solar panels from people that run their homes with solar?
Asked by Will - Sun Dec 6 22:36:04 2009 - - 8 Answers - 0 Comments
A. I have a 3.74 kw dc system. The full cost to have the system installed was $26K. I got a $10K rebate from my utility and a fed tax credit (it has been increased to 30% of the total cost so it would be $7800). Not all utilities will allow your meter to run backwards, mine does. It was estimated my system would pay for it's self in 6.2 years. My city just passed a 20% rate increase, so I should break even much sooner. My system is tied to the grid so I sell them my excess and buy what I need when the sun isn't up. I don't have a storage system. I create about 90% of my summer usage and about 75% of my winter usage. My bills went from about $200 down to about $20 for the summer. In the spring my bills are closer to $10. I highly recommend… [cont.]
Answered by whsgreenmom - Mon Dec 7 12:27:13 2009
How to make my microwave work only using solar panels?
Q. Hi, I got really interested in the whole concept of solar panels. I read a couple of articles and saw a few videos on how to convert solar energy to electricity, but what I want to know is how can I make the microwave work, only using solar panels? What I mean, is how many Volts, Watts, Amperes or any of these do I need to make the microwaves fully functional and how many big the solar panels need to be to absord enought energy? Thanks!
Asked by George M - Mon Sep 21 22:53:18 2009 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments
A. There's a lot of important details, but the short answer is that you would need a system capable of supplying around 1000W, at 120VAC and capable of handling the current (which would be around 8A). The specific requirements would depend on how you intend to use the microwave oven (i.e. how long its on for and how often you turn it on). Based on the usage you'd be able to come up with an idea of how many batteries you need (for storing the energy) versus how many solar panels you need (for charging the batteries). In any case, it would be a fairly expensive way to heat food. Even if you made it cheap (i.e. so that the system could only be used occasionally), I'd guess it would cost at least $1000 for the inverter, batteries and other… [cont.]
Answered by Call me Batman - Mon Sep 21 23:43:11 2009
Q. Hi, I got really interested in the whole concept of solar panels. I read a couple of articles and saw a few videos on how to convert solar energy to electricity, but what I want to know is how can I make the microwave work, only using solar panels? What I mean, is how many Volts, Watts, Amperes or any of these do I need to make the microwaves fully functional and how many big the solar panels need to be to absord enought energy? Thanks!
Asked by George M - Mon Sep 21 22:53:18 2009 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments
A. There's a lot of important details, but the short answer is that you would need a system capable of supplying around 1000W, at 120VAC and capable of handling the current (which would be around 8A). The specific requirements would depend on how you intend to use the microwave oven (i.e. how long its on for and how often you turn it on). Based on the usage you'd be able to come up with an idea of how many batteries you need (for storing the energy) versus how many solar panels you need (for charging the batteries). In any case, it would be a fairly expensive way to heat food. Even if you made it cheap (i.e. so that the system could only be used occasionally), I'd guess it would cost at least $1000 for the inverter, batteries and other… [cont.]
Answered by Call me Batman - Mon Sep 21 23:43:11 2009
How much solar paneling is required to produce electrical energy to move a 250 pound body in a 250 pound cart?
Q. What is the amount of solar energy required to drive a 250 pound cart with a 250 pound person 10 miles? How many square feet of recharged paneling would be required?
Asked by mandy upton - Wed Sep 2 19:18:02 2009 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments
A. If you are willing to go slowly enough, all you need from the solar panel is enough to overcome static friction to get the cart started. I do know that a cyclist cruising along at a moderate speed (say, 10 miles an hour) is expending about 1/10 horsepower. That's 80 watts. So on flat ground, a 100-watt panel push them over the 10 miles in an hour. Such a panel, if square, would be 2 to 2.5 feet on a side, if made with typical contemporary materials. If the terrain is more than gently rolling hills, more power would be needed. 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… [cont.]
Answered by macie sowder - Wed Sep 2 19:19:09 2009
Q. What is the amount of solar energy required to drive a 250 pound cart with a 250 pound person 10 miles? How many square feet of recharged paneling would be required?
Asked by mandy upton - Wed Sep 2 19:18:02 2009 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments
A. If you are willing to go slowly enough, all you need from the solar panel is enough to overcome static friction to get the cart started. I do know that a cyclist cruising along at a moderate speed (say, 10 miles an hour) is expending about 1/10 horsepower. That's 80 watts. So on flat ground, a 100-watt panel push them over the 10 miles in an hour. Such a panel, if square, would be 2 to 2.5 feet on a side, if made with typical contemporary materials. If the terrain is more than gently rolling hills, more power would be needed. 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… [cont.]
Answered by macie sowder - Wed Sep 2 19:19:09 2009
Can a solar panel help to eliminate frozen water pipes in a well?
Q. This past winter my tenants had frozen water twice. Once when the power went out for 5 hours and another time when it hit -38 and no tap was running. The well is enclosed in a heated, insulated room with electric pump. There is also plenty of wind, so am thinking of going solar or wind power instead of a generator for back up.
Asked by big tree - Sun Mar 22 22:37:24 2009 - - 3 Answers - 0 Comments
A. Was the sun shining when the temperature was so low? I'm guessing probably not. If the wind was blowing during these cold and blackout periods, that may be the best option. There are wind kits for as little as $1000 and you can connect them to 'heat tape', which is basically a cord that emits heat. They are often used on pipes and eaves to melt snow. See the wind systems below. They will require a small battery system, have the provider draw out your system for you, and then you can install it.
Answered by SolarBerg - Wed Mar 25 10:46:38 2009
Q. This past winter my tenants had frozen water twice. Once when the power went out for 5 hours and another time when it hit -38 and no tap was running. The well is enclosed in a heated, insulated room with electric pump. There is also plenty of wind, so am thinking of going solar or wind power instead of a generator for back up.
Asked by big tree - Sun Mar 22 22:37:24 2009 - - 3 Answers - 0 Comments
A. Was the sun shining when the temperature was so low? I'm guessing probably not. If the wind was blowing during these cold and blackout periods, that may be the best option. There are wind kits for as little as $1000 and you can connect them to 'heat tape', which is basically a cord that emits heat. They are often used on pipes and eaves to melt snow. See the wind systems below. They will require a small battery system, have the provider draw out your system for you, and then you can install it.
Answered by SolarBerg - Wed Mar 25 10:46:38 2009
How to connect a solar panel to an outlet?
Q. I have a cabin in the woods and need more light. I do have enough sun but I was wondering how or where do I get a solar panel to lead to a power outlet? In a perfect world I would like to get a solar panel with a connecting wire to an outlet or something so I could power a small TV. I know its hard enough but can I get that pre-made? Or even lastly should I look at wind power consider I would like this to be under $500? Thank you for putting up with this bundle of questions.
Asked by Blake F - Thu Jun 26 19:35:45 2008 - - 3 Answers - 0 Comments
A. A typical solar panel will deliver 50 watts of power in the form of 24 volts DC. You need 120 volts AC. So here is what it takes: Since you will need at least 200 watts to do a small TV, you need four solar panels, and a solar controller. Then you need a 24 volt solar type battery to load the output of the panels. Next you need an inverter. This is a device that changes 24 volts DC into 120 volts AC, which you can wire to a standard outlet for the TV set. Solar panels cost around $6 per watt of power. 200 X $6 = $1200 Solar Controller will cost around $150 The battery will cost around $100 The inverter will cost around $200 You could get by with less than 200 watts of solar panels if you just let it charge the battery all day and… [cont.]
Answered by Dead Account - Thu Jun 26 21:20:38 2008
Q. I have a cabin in the woods and need more light. I do have enough sun but I was wondering how or where do I get a solar panel to lead to a power outlet? In a perfect world I would like to get a solar panel with a connecting wire to an outlet or something so I could power a small TV. I know its hard enough but can I get that pre-made? Or even lastly should I look at wind power consider I would like this to be under $500? Thank you for putting up with this bundle of questions.
Asked by Blake F - Thu Jun 26 19:35:45 2008 - - 3 Answers - 0 Comments
A. A typical solar panel will deliver 50 watts of power in the form of 24 volts DC. You need 120 volts AC. So here is what it takes: Since you will need at least 200 watts to do a small TV, you need four solar panels, and a solar controller. Then you need a 24 volt solar type battery to load the output of the panels. Next you need an inverter. This is a device that changes 24 volts DC into 120 volts AC, which you can wire to a standard outlet for the TV set. Solar panels cost around $6 per watt of power. 200 X $6 = $1200 Solar Controller will cost around $150 The battery will cost around $100 The inverter will cost around $200 You could get by with less than 200 watts of solar panels if you just let it charge the battery all day and… [cont.]
Answered by Dead Account - Thu Jun 26 21:20:38 2008
What is the best way to charge solar powered garden lanterns quickly?
Q. I have a set of solar powered garden lanterns I need to use for a play. The man at the store said to leave them in full sun (I'm in England, so that's never going to happen!) for three days before turning them on. However, I need them before that for rehearsals. Is there a way to quickly and artificially charge solar cells? What sort of artificial light works/works best in charging solar cells?
Asked by Paul S - Tue Aug 8 07:05:40 2006 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments
A. Any form of bright light will do, but sunlight, because it is so bright, works best. The three day initial charge is needed only for the first time, if at all, and after that you can simply recharge them during the day and recharge them at night. Another thing to try would be this: your typical solar garden lantern has two rechargeable AA cells. Try replacing these with alkaline batteries (take note of polarity), and the lanterns should work. These cells can be removed after the show and re-used until exhausted.
Answered by rhsaunders - Tue Aug 8 07:14:46 2006
Q. I have a set of solar powered garden lanterns I need to use for a play. The man at the store said to leave them in full sun (I'm in England, so that's never going to happen!) for three days before turning them on. However, I need them before that for rehearsals. Is there a way to quickly and artificially charge solar cells? What sort of artificial light works/works best in charging solar cells?
Asked by Paul S - Tue Aug 8 07:05:40 2006 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments
A. Any form of bright light will do, but sunlight, because it is so bright, works best. The three day initial charge is needed only for the first time, if at all, and after that you can simply recharge them during the day and recharge them at night. Another thing to try would be this: your typical solar garden lantern has two rechargeable AA cells. Try replacing these with alkaline batteries (take note of polarity), and the lanterns should work. These cells can be removed after the show and re-used until exhausted.
Answered by rhsaunders - Tue Aug 8 07:14:46 2006
How does solar activity relate to climate changes?
Q. Does anyone have any info, preferably a link to organizations that measure solar output/sunspot activity/etc., which relates to the temperature of the earth for as long as such things have been tracked? I'm looking for scientific data and correlations. Thanks in advance.
Asked by WaterSpider18 - Fri Apr 17 14:48:23 2009 - - 3 Answers - 0 Comments
A. Stanford Solar Center: Max Planck Institute: ipcc:
Answered by Dana1981 - Fri Apr 17 14:56:50 2009
Q. Does anyone have any info, preferably a link to organizations that measure solar output/sunspot activity/etc., which relates to the temperature of the earth for as long as such things have been tracked? I'm looking for scientific data and correlations. Thanks in advance.
Asked by WaterSpider18 - Fri Apr 17 14:48:23 2009 - - 3 Answers - 0 Comments
A. Stanford Solar Center: Max Planck Institute: ipcc:
Answered by Dana1981 - Fri Apr 17 14:56:50 2009
What size solar panel do I need to power a meraki outdoor router?
Q. The meraki outdoor router is 12w. What kind of solar setup do I need to power this thing 24hrs a day?
Asked by art vandelay - Mon May 5 17:06:04 2008 - - 1 Answers - 0 Comments
A. You need something that will provide enough power to charge some batteries as well as run the router. This mean you need 12 w X 24 hours or 288 watthours of power. The solar panel needs to provide a minimum of 288 watthours of energy during daylight hours. Depending on where you live, calculate the number of hour of sunlight during the shortest day of the year. If you figure 6 hours of daylight as the shortest day, this means you need 48 watts per hour or 4 amps per hour if this is a 12 volt system. A common solar panel can deliver 1 amp so you would need 4 of them if that's the size you use. Remeber, this is a minimum. More capacity won't hurt.
Answered by wires - Mon May 5 22:29:54 2008
Q. The meraki outdoor router is 12w. What kind of solar setup do I need to power this thing 24hrs a day?
Asked by art vandelay - Mon May 5 17:06:04 2008 - - 1 Answers - 0 Comments
A. You need something that will provide enough power to charge some batteries as well as run the router. This mean you need 12 w X 24 hours or 288 watthours of power. The solar panel needs to provide a minimum of 288 watthours of energy during daylight hours. Depending on where you live, calculate the number of hour of sunlight during the shortest day of the year. If you figure 6 hours of daylight as the shortest day, this means you need 48 watts per hour or 4 amps per hour if this is a 12 volt system. A common solar panel can deliver 1 amp so you would need 4 of them if that's the size you use. Remeber, this is a minimum. More capacity won't hurt.
Answered by wires - Mon May 5 22:29:54 2008
Can I connect a solar panel charger to my car battery without interfering with the alternator?
Q. Would like to add a solar panel to help charge my car battery. Will this affect/hurt my alternator? Do I need to switch from alternator to solar. I was hoping to leave the panel attached to the car during operation. I'd like it as easy as possible.
Asked by weburchin - Tue Sep 23 23:25:16 2008 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments
A. High wattage High temperature Diodes is your answer. One on wire from solar panel charger to battery's positive. Another on wire from alternator to battery's positive. Current will only from solar panel charger and alternator to battery. Both solar panel charger and alternator can charge battery simultaneously. Convenient - no switching needed.
Answered by methosyhlim - Tue Sep 23 23:36:57 2008
Q. Would like to add a solar panel to help charge my car battery. Will this affect/hurt my alternator? Do I need to switch from alternator to solar. I was hoping to leave the panel attached to the car during operation. I'd like it as easy as possible.
Asked by weburchin - Tue Sep 23 23:25:16 2008 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments
A. High wattage High temperature Diodes is your answer. One on wire from solar panel charger to battery's positive. Another on wire from alternator to battery's positive. Current will only from solar panel charger and alternator to battery. Both solar panel charger and alternator can charge battery simultaneously. Convenient - no switching needed.
Answered by methosyhlim - Tue Sep 23 23:36:57 2008
How does the solar energy is stored in a battery?
Q. How does the solar battery charged using solar panels?What is the mechanism that converts solar energy in to electrical energy? How can a car be run on solar energy?what could be its maximum speed?
Asked by Avinash - Sun Dec 27 22:20:58 2009 - - 4 Answers - 0 Comments
A. The mechanism used to convert solar energy is called a photovoltaic cell. Solar cells are built of a mostly silicon compound, which leaves some atoms with loose electrons. These electrons are knocked free by the energy of the sun and, if attached to a circuit, will charge the battery like any AC charger. A car can be run very simply :) Just use an electric car, with batteries being charged by a solar panel on the roof or at a filling port (similar to a gas station). The fastest solar car I know of is the Nuna 2 (105 mph) Hope this helps :)
Answered by Wolf lover - Mon Dec 28 22:55:29 2009
Q. How does the solar battery charged using solar panels?What is the mechanism that converts solar energy in to electrical energy? How can a car be run on solar energy?what could be its maximum speed?
Asked by Avinash - Sun Dec 27 22:20:58 2009 - - 4 Answers - 0 Comments
A. The mechanism used to convert solar energy is called a photovoltaic cell. Solar cells are built of a mostly silicon compound, which leaves some atoms with loose electrons. These electrons are knocked free by the energy of the sun and, if attached to a circuit, will charge the battery like any AC charger. A car can be run very simply :) Just use an electric car, with batteries being charged by a solar panel on the roof or at a filling port (similar to a gas station). The fastest solar car I know of is the Nuna 2 (105 mph) Hope this helps :)
Answered by Wolf lover - Mon Dec 28 22:55:29 2009
How can electrons keep being generated by solar panels?
Q. I was trying to figure out how solar panels work today and I found that electrons get displaced in 2 layers of a solar panel by photons coming from the sun to create power. If the electrons come from the solar panel and go into the electrical grid, how are they replaced in the solar panel? Wouldn't the solar panel eventually lose all of its electrons and stop working? Electrons have mass, so wouldn't the solar panel slowly deteriorate? I think solar energy is awesome and I really want to know how it works. Any help in enlightening me on this subject would great, thanks!
Asked by Billy - Sun Dec 27 23:35:53 2009 - - 3 Answers - 0 Comments
A. It's because the photovolcaics are closed-loop systems. A photon will come in and basically knock an electron across what is called a "junction" and create current, but it is "caught" (really simplified version) on the other side of the junction and kind of "bounced back" into place. It's like Formula 1 racing or NASCAR. The car will be sitting in the Pit, just waiting to go, then will tear out, run a few laps until it requires more fuel, then stops in the Pit again, gets refueled, and just waits for the signal from the Pit Boss to get going again. The limiting factor on solar cells isn't the cell itself, as in the electrical circuits and semiconductors, but rather the very slow degradation of the (usually plastic) that holds each… [cont.]
Answered by Earth Man - Sun Dec 27 23:52:55 2009
Q. I was trying to figure out how solar panels work today and I found that electrons get displaced in 2 layers of a solar panel by photons coming from the sun to create power. If the electrons come from the solar panel and go into the electrical grid, how are they replaced in the solar panel? Wouldn't the solar panel eventually lose all of its electrons and stop working? Electrons have mass, so wouldn't the solar panel slowly deteriorate? I think solar energy is awesome and I really want to know how it works. Any help in enlightening me on this subject would great, thanks!
Asked by Billy - Sun Dec 27 23:35:53 2009 - - 3 Answers - 0 Comments
A. It's because the photovolcaics are closed-loop systems. A photon will come in and basically knock an electron across what is called a "junction" and create current, but it is "caught" (really simplified version) on the other side of the junction and kind of "bounced back" into place. It's like Formula 1 racing or NASCAR. The car will be sitting in the Pit, just waiting to go, then will tear out, run a few laps until it requires more fuel, then stops in the Pit again, gets refueled, and just waits for the signal from the Pit Boss to get going again. The limiting factor on solar cells isn't the cell itself, as in the electrical circuits and semiconductors, but rather the very slow degradation of the (usually plastic) that holds each… [cont.]
Answered by Earth Man - Sun Dec 27 23:52:55 2009
Which is the current viable solar technology that one should opt for to produce, to avoid expensive R&D?
Q. Hi, For a school project, I was asked to setup a business model for a solar production factory. But I am stuck a little bit. The main thing that I have a problem with is to understand the difference between panels, voltaic solar and film or paint. Which is the current viable technology that one should opt for (to produce), taking less risk depending on future developments? Can anyone help to clarify this for me? Thanks!
Asked by sjamho - Thu Mar 19 21:59:02 2009 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments
A. Until we reach 100% efficiency, no currently "viable" solar technology can avoid the prospects of becoming obsolete. With material breakthroughs such as carbon nanotubes just coming on the horizon, one can expect significant developments in the near future. Whichever current product that you select for your business model, expect to have to modify it to adapt new technologies into it. It's a judgement call, whether you go for the expensive production facilities to make high yield multi layer or three dimensional photovoltaic panels, attempt to market low yield but inexpensive photovoltaic paints where the emphasis would be on the installation service rather then production, or the middle ground of films, it's anyone's guess. The… [cont.]
Answered by John W - Fri Mar 20 02:07:22 2009
Q. Hi, For a school project, I was asked to setup a business model for a solar production factory. But I am stuck a little bit. The main thing that I have a problem with is to understand the difference between panels, voltaic solar and film or paint. Which is the current viable technology that one should opt for (to produce), taking less risk depending on future developments? Can anyone help to clarify this for me? Thanks!
Asked by sjamho - Thu Mar 19 21:59:02 2009 - - 2 Answers - 0 Comments
A. Until we reach 100% efficiency, no currently "viable" solar technology can avoid the prospects of becoming obsolete. With material breakthroughs such as carbon nanotubes just coming on the horizon, one can expect significant developments in the near future. Whichever current product that you select for your business model, expect to have to modify it to adapt new technologies into it. It's a judgement call, whether you go for the expensive production facilities to make high yield multi layer or three dimensional photovoltaic panels, attempt to market low yield but inexpensive photovoltaic paints where the emphasis would be on the installation service rather then production, or the middle ground of films, it's anyone's guess. The… [cont.]
Answered by John W - Fri Mar 20 02:07:22 2009
How can I determine which solar panel options are best for me?
Q. I want to install some solar panels on my house. I've heard about a few companies where I can pay my current rate for electricity and they will install and maintain solar panels on my house. Then again, I could also buy my own system. What is the best deal here?
Asked by phil6142 - Tue Aug 12 15:48:23 2008 - - 5 Answers - 0 Comments
A. Whether yo buy or lease, if you install a large enough system, you could still a check from your utility company for what you put into the grid above what you use. The problem with leasing that I see is. 1. do you still get rebates from the different agencies. 2. The system does not go with the house if you decide to sell. and having a solar system is a great selling point with lower utility bills. 3. the system never get paid off, where with a bought system in normally paid off in 7 years.
Answered by Hannah's Grandpa - Tue Aug 12 16:21:12 2008
Q. I want to install some solar panels on my house. I've heard about a few companies where I can pay my current rate for electricity and they will install and maintain solar panels on my house. Then again, I could also buy my own system. What is the best deal here?
Asked by phil6142 - Tue Aug 12 15:48:23 2008 - - 5 Answers - 0 Comments
A. Whether yo buy or lease, if you install a large enough system, you could still a check from your utility company for what you put into the grid above what you use. The problem with leasing that I see is. 1. do you still get rebates from the different agencies. 2. The system does not go with the house if you decide to sell. and having a solar system is a great selling point with lower utility bills. 3. the system never get paid off, where with a bought system in normally paid off in 7 years.
Answered by Hannah's Grandpa - Tue Aug 12 16:21:12 2008
What about imbedding a small solar panel on the roof of a vehicle & running on both solar and gasoline?
Q. On sunny days, you could run off the solar panel, and on cloudy days the gasoline would kick in. How many batteries would it take, and would it be feasible?
Asked by homeplate - Thu May 15 11:06:26 2008 - - 3 Answers - 0 Comments
A. While it's a great GREEN idea, it's a bit impractical. All horizontal surfaces of the vehicle would need to covered in solar panels. Vehicles would have to pared down to hundreds of pounds instead of thousands, and some other option would have to be offered in regions where clouds are in competition with the sun. Not to mention, what does one do at night?
Answered by Bob L - Thu May 15 11:14:06 2008
Q. On sunny days, you could run off the solar panel, and on cloudy days the gasoline would kick in. How many batteries would it take, and would it be feasible?
Asked by homeplate - Thu May 15 11:06:26 2008 - - 3 Answers - 0 Comments
A. While it's a great GREEN idea, it's a bit impractical. All horizontal surfaces of the vehicle would need to covered in solar panels. Vehicles would have to pared down to hundreds of pounds instead of thousands, and some other option would have to be offered in regions where clouds are in competition with the sun. Not to mention, what does one do at night?
Answered by Bob L - Thu May 15 11:14:06 2008
I want to install a solar powered heating element in my hot water tank?
Q. I want to install a solar powered heating element in my hot water tank. I want a very simple system with out batteries or thermostat control. Basically convert solar power to electricity & send directly to the heating element which is fitted to my water tank. 1] Has anyone any experience of such a set-up? 2] Any advice on this system- what to do & what not to do?
Asked by geraldbrogan - Sun Mar 30 00:09:49 2008 - - 1 Answers - 2 Comments
A. The technology to convert solar power to electricity to heat water is very inefficient. Solar photovoltaic panels are expensive. You should think about using solar panels to heat water then circulate that through your hot water heater. There are dozens of firms in your town who can install a solar water system for you. If you are good at plumbing you can probably do this yourself. This might give you some information:
Answered by Tom S - Sun Mar 30 00:18:10 2008
Q. I want to install a solar powered heating element in my hot water tank. I want a very simple system with out batteries or thermostat control. Basically convert solar power to electricity & send directly to the heating element which is fitted to my water tank. 1] Has anyone any experience of such a set-up? 2] Any advice on this system- what to do & what not to do?
Asked by geraldbrogan - Sun Mar 30 00:09:49 2008 - - 1 Answers - 2 Comments
A. The technology to convert solar power to electricity to heat water is very inefficient. Solar photovoltaic panels are expensive. You should think about using solar panels to heat water then circulate that through your hot water heater. There are dozens of firms in your town who can install a solar water system for you. If you are good at plumbing you can probably do this yourself. This might give you some information:
Answered by Tom S - Sun Mar 30 00:18:10 2008
From Yahoo Answer Search: 'solar'
Thu Jul 29 00:05:28 2010 [ refresh local cache ]
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healthyfinancialhabits.com
Wed, 28 Jul 2010 10:32:38 GMT+00:00
panels designs for the home ... Healthy Financial Habits Many Americans are just now discovering solar and wind energy for the first time as tax incentives and rebates lure in many homeowners. ... Solar contract rooted in renewable energy law Pueblo Chieftain Solar lighting solution for households Republica Solar power 'net metering system' introduced Ceylon Daily News Daily Mirror
blogberry.de
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Die BlackBerry Theme Designer von Elecite haben vorgestern ein neues Premium BlackBerry Theme mit dem umweltfreundlichen Namen Solar veroeffentlicht Farblich ist das Theme Geschmackssache Liebhaber von Gruentoenen werden sicherlich Ihre Freude mit dem Solar Theme haben Das Theme beinhaltet 7 8 frei konfigurierbare Icons am BlackBerry
cleantech.com
Stephen Marcus
hu, 29 Jul 2010 16:52:36 GM
2 Indian cleantech companies received investment from venture and private equity investors this week whilst 1 venture backed . solar. company listed in Taiwan.
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