After researching solar panels I have realized that there are many factors that contribute to their successfulness. Solar panels or photovoltaic panels are a great start to going green. They can help reduce utility costs almost immediately after successful installation. In order to reach zero admissions there are many other building factors that have to be addressed in addition to the panels. Proper window placement for optimal natural light and also heat from the sun are very important factors. Proper insulation and building material also play a big factor. Having a system that adjusts the lights according to the outside also helps this alternative energy source. There are many pros of solar panels. They are virtually maintenance free. The only coat being the initial cost of the product and installation. There are many financial incentives from the government that can provide some relief from the initial cost. Solar energy is clean and renewable. It is not subjected to the rising costs of fossil fuels. Sunlight is free. There are also some cons to solar panels. The initial cost and be very expensive. You must have a large surface area to house the panels. The absorption of sun is contingent on the weather with most systems; the more expensive ones can still absorb and convert UV rays into usable energy. The investment cost is usually not offset in the first 5 years. Less efficient homes do not see returns until after 10. The productions of these panels have a negative impact on the environment because of the materials used in making them. The system has to also be carefully planned and executed or else it will not work.
Here are some examples of Solar panels.
Cambridge Porter Square Shopping Center Case study demonstrates a communities efforts to educate their citizens on alternative energy.
Estimated Start up Cost: $8 t0 $10 dollares per watt for a complete system
Annual Energy Production: 22,000 kWh, about 30% of the building’s common area usage.
Annual Energy Cost Savings: approximately $4,400
Annual Emissions Offsets: 31,680 lbs. of CO2, 163 lbs. of SO2, 53.9 lbs. of NOx
Size: 80 modules (ea. measuring approx. 4 ft.x 6 ft.) Total panel area =1920 square feet
Electricity Produced to Date: 165,000 kWh between 1999 and 2008
Savings Realized to Date: Approximately $35,000 in electricity charges
A great start to going green bust very costly.
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