<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>DIY Solar Homes Blog &#187; Renewable Energy</title>
	<atom:link href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/category/renewable-energy/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog</link>
	<description>By A Renewable Energy Enthusiast</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Thu, 02 Feb 2012 23:53:58 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1</generator>
		<item>
		<title>Building Your Own Home Solar System &#8211; How To Get Started?</title>
		<link>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/building-your-own-home-solar-system/</link>
		<comments>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/building-your-own-home-solar-system/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 25 Dec 2011 22:42:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Building Your Own Home Solar System]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[photovoltaic pv system]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/?p=2335</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Installing a solar panel on your roof helps you save hundreds of dollars a month on your electricity bill. By producing your own electricity at home using a Photovoltaic (PV) solar panel, your electricity bill can be reduced by 80%. Installing a solar panel is not as costly as you might think. If you can [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Home Solar System" src="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/solarpanelsystem.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="198" /></p>
<p>Installing a solar panel on your roof helps you save hundreds of dollars a month on your electricity bill. By producing your own electricity at home using a Photovoltaic (PV) solar panel, your electricity bill can be reduced by 80%.</p>
<p>Installing a <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/diy-solar-panels/cheap-solar-cells-inexpensive-pv-cells-for-solar-panels/">solar panel</a> is not as costly as you might think. If you can build your own solar panel, its cost will just be around $200 per panel. And the good thing is that you don’t need prior experience and any special skill in building a solar panel and installing it on your roof.</p>
<p>With such a small investment and a great economic benefit, it is not surprising to see that an increasing number of people are now building their own solar panels.</p>
<p>To start with, you have to assemble a solar panel by soldering multiple solar cells together. All the components you need to build a PV panel are available at your local store which supplies solar accessories. Depending on your home energy requirement, 10 – 15 sets of 16 volts solar panel would be sufficient for your needs. The parts needed to build your PV system will not cost you more than $150 for individual panel.</p>
<p>Then there is the battery to be purchased. What you’ll need is a series of deep cycle batteries. Choose a lead or deep cell acid battery whose output is 12 volts. Link a couple of batteries together to make your <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/deep-cycle-battery/diy-battery-bank-for-home-solar-power-system/">battery bank</a> to store the electric charge generated by the solar panels.</p>
<p>Other important components you need to buy are the DC meter and the DC input. The DC meter and the DC input help to measure and transfer the electricity produced by the solar panels into the battery and supply electricity for your home needs.</p>
<p>Then there has to be a converter to convert Direct Current (DC) into Alternate Current (AC) for your appliances at home which mostly run on AC. Connect the DC input and the DC meter to the battery with insulated wires. It will be safer and easier if you connect the wire to the negative terminal of the battery first.</p>
<p>Once the wire connections are complete, your solar panel is ready for use. Place the panels outside at a place where it gets the maximum amount of sunlight. Initially, it will take around 8 hours to get the battery fully charged.</p>
<p>Once your home solar setup becomes operational, your electricity bill will start to drop. By installing a solar power system at your home, you are not only saving money but also helping the environment to be clean.</p>
<p>In case you find the instructions given here is insufficient, you can search on the internet for more detailed and easy to understand instructions on DIY solar panel projects.</p>
<p>Producing electricity at your own home using either wind generator or solar power is beneficial on different counts; you can save money and you can help prevent further degradation of environment. Both wind and solar are renewable and clean sources of energy.</p>
<p>To be successful in producing electricity at your home, you must follow the correct installation procedure. If you depend on instruction available on the internet to make you’re your own solar panel, make sure that the instructions are provided by someone who knows the inside out of solar energy production.</p>
<h1>Home DIY Photovoltaic Building Guide</h1>
<p>If you are looking for a DIY Photovoltaic panel construction guide, check out the <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/homemade-power/ben-ford-homemade-energy-guide-review/">Homemade Energy</a> program created by Ben Ford.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" title="Homemade Energy Guide" src="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/homemadeenergy-e1300186699639.jpg" alt="" width="344" height="354" /></p>
<p>The program comes with High Definition (HD) instructional videos and pdf files on the step by step process needed in making a PV panel on a limited budget. Click on the link below to visit Ford’s web site right now.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">==&gt; <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/homemade_energy">Click here to visit Homemade Energy now!</a></h2>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/building-your-own-home-solar-system/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>To Meet Energy Demand, We Need To Start Utilizing Alternative Power Source</title>
		<link>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/alternative-power-source-to-meet-energy-demand/</link>
		<comments>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/alternative-power-source-to-meet-energy-demand/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 25 Nov 2011 23:29:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[alternative energy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[energy demand]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hydro power]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Solar Power]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/?p=2200</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As everyone is aware, electricity was invented in the early 1900s. In the beginning, many people could not use it as most of them at that time did not have electrical connections for supply of electric power to their residences. Even when it was used, it was only for lighting electric bulbs. Subsequently, heaters and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Installing Solar Panels" src="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/solarpanelsystem.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="198" /></p>
<p>As everyone is aware, electricity was invented in the early 1900s. In the beginning, many people could not use it as most of them at that time did not have electrical connections for supply of electric power to their residences. Even when it was used, it was only for <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/green-living/led-light-bulb-simple-solution-to-reduce-home-energy-bill/">lighting electric bulbs</a>. Subsequently, heaters and stoves were introduced.</p>
<p>Cotton mills and other factories that run on electricity were soon established. Currently, with ever growing demand for electric power, researchers and industrialists began to look for alternative sources of power.</p>
<p>Many people may not be aware that Canada occupies number one position in power generation in the world, The United States of America purchases electric power from Canada because of heavy demand in that country. In fact, California is among the states in the US that purchases maximum electricity from Canada.</p>
<p>Canada built a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydroelectricity" target="_blank">hydroelectric power</a> plant in the northern province of Quebec to generate electricity. They were under the impression this power generation plant would produce sufficient power to meet the requirements of future generations as well.</p>
<p>With rapid growth of population, Canada constructed three more hydroelectric plants. Hydroelectric power plants convert the potential energy from water into electrical energy. Such plants are suitable where plenty of water is available.</p>
<p>Dams are constructed over rivers to stop the flow of water and form a reservoir. The reservoir stores the water flowing down the river. This water at a height is rerouted to turn turbines to generate electricity.</p>
<p>When power plants are built the entire area is submerged as the level of water has to be raised. While people in some parts of the world have not even heard of electricity, some others have surplus power.</p>
<p>There are also several countries that are facing acute shortage of electric power. Apart from hydro-power, there are several other alternative sources of electricity, such as solar energy harnessed from radiant light and heat from the sun, wind energy and electric power from waves.</p>
<p>Solar power electric generation depends on <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/diy-solar-panels/cheap-solar-cells-inexpensive-pv-cells-for-solar-panels/" target="_blank">solar cells</a> or Photovoltaic (PV) cells. Photovoltaic cells are normally silicon-based units that absorb sunlight. A number of solar cells are assembled to build solar panels.</p>
<p>Several solar panels are combined and interconnected as one piece of equipment for higher power generation. Energy from the sun stimulates the electrons in solar cells to generate electricity.</p>
<p>The solar power produced is in the form of Direct Current (DC). However, Direct Current is not useful in that form for all common purposes such as lighting, heating and operating various equipment and therefore, it is converted into Alternating Current (AC) with the help of an inventor. Alternating current is normally at 120V.</p>
<p>Most appliances can be operated at this voltage. Solar energy can also be utilized for heating at home or for swimming pool using ‘Solar Thermal Technologies’, also called Active Solar Systems.</p>
<p>In solar thermal technology, solar radiation is converted into heat and it involves the usage of pumps or fans for active transfer of heat either for storage or distribution directly for use. The most important part of an active solar system is the ‘solar collector’.</p>
<p>The purpose of a solar collector is to absorb the radiant energy from the sun and convert it into compatible heat. Different varieties of collectors are available for conversion of solar radiation, classified based on the type of application and temperature requirements.</p>
<p>Unpolished metal or plastic flat plate collectors are employed where high temperatures are not required, as for instance for heating swimming pools at residences and for heating air for ventilation in commercial and industrial buildings.</p>
<p>Polished flat plates and vacuum tube collectors are utilized for medium range temperature needs, such as for hot water at residences, space heating and cooling the premises.</p>
<p>‘Concentrating collector’ is another type that centers the sunlight on a much smaller area. These collectors are used for applications where higher temperatures are required, as for example, in industrial process heating, absorption cooling and comprehensive solar thermal applications to produce steam for power generation.</p>
<p>One way of effecting savings in day-to-day life is to install a <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/deep-cycle-battery/diy-battery-bank-for-home-solar-power-system/" target="_blank">solar panel system</a> at home. This will not only reduce expenses on electricity but also contribute to the environment by generating pollution-free solar energy.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/alternative-power-source-to-meet-energy-demand/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Solar Homes Canada &#8211; Will Residential Solar Generator Work For Canadian?</title>
		<link>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/will-residential-solar-generator-work-for-canadian/</link>
		<comments>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/will-residential-solar-generator-work-for-canadian/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Nov 2011 21:54:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[canadian solar energy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[residential solar generator]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[solar homes canada]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/?p=2156</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[People in Canada daily hear on the news channels regarding soaring prices of electric power and its generation and the impact it has on environment. One of the best methods to solve these dual problems is to switch over to other options of power resources. Alternative forms of energy consist of solar energy, wind energy, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Home Solar System" src="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/solarpanelsystem.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="198" /></p>
<p>People in Canada daily hear on the news channels regarding soaring prices of electric power and its generation and the impact it has on environment. One of the best methods to solve these dual problems is to switch over to other options of power resources.</p>
<p>Alternative forms of energy consist of solar energy, <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/wind-power/5-essential-components-to-build-a-home-wind-generator/">wind energy</a>, energy tapped from tidal waves and hydro-power. Canadians have been utilizing solar energy for a long time. Solar power meets their individual requirements at residences and is considered more economical than traditional thermal power.</p>
<p>Although installation of solar power systems at homes is very useful, for a major effect on environment making it pollution-free, generation of solar energy should be on a much higher level. However, the question is whether generation of solar energy on mass-scale is a viable option and if so, can Canada, as a nation, begin to utilize more solar energy?</p>
<p>Yes. It is a realistic proposition to produce solar power on extensive scale in Canada and the electricity generated would be sufficient to meet the requirements of a large segment of population. Contrary to the perceptions of people of other nations, Canada is not a country that is fully covered with snow, trees, mountains and polar bears.</p>
<p>On the other hand, there are lots of regions in Canada that get sunshine to generate sufficient solar energy to supply electricity to literally thousands of residences. Southern Ontario, Quebec and the Prairies are ideal for setting up huge “solar farms”.</p>
<p>The world’s biggest solar farm is actually located at Sarnia, Ontario and supplies solar energy to more than 12000 residences. This is due to the progressive program, known as Feed-in-Tariff (FIT) introduced by the Government of Ontario. This program is aimed at motivating people to build up renewable energy sources at domestic level as well as on a large scale.</p>
<p>With the impetus provided by the Government, needless to say, there has been significant increase in the usage of solar energy in Ontario. The northern part of Canada would be an excellent place to utilize solar energy in the small villages and towns.</p>
<p>Most of the people in these villages and towns depend upon diesel for fuel and oil for heating. The prices of these products are already very high and if costs of transportation are added, these items would no longer be affordable to a common man. This makes people to be extremely careful in utilizing electricity.</p>
<p>The consumption of electricity will go down further, if supplies of diesel do not reach the towns in time. This is because there will not be sufficient fuel for both municipalities and individuals to run <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/generator-reviews/duromax-xp10000e-gas-generator-review/">gasoline generators</a> to produce electricity. Under these circumstances, solar power is the most viable alternative.</p>
<p>This is partly because the electricity produced by solar panels is first stored in batteries before it is distributed to the entire house. The batteries can store electricity for hours or even several days’ consumption. The batteries can be filled in just a few hours depending upon the number of <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/diy-solar-panels/cheap-solar-cells-inexpensive-pv-cells-for-solar-panels/">solar panels</a> installed and their power ratings.</p>
<p>Although the solar panels require clear sky and bright sunlight for optimum generation of electricity, even poor sunlight is sufficient to produce power. In those places, it is essential to position the solar panels to face the Sun, irrespective of the season.</p>
<p>Earlier most of the solar energy generated in Canada was used for other than normal requirements. They were utilized mainly for drying wood and heating water. Nevertheless, it is the beginning of a change and Canada is fast emerging as one of the world leaders in using solar energy.</p>
<h1>DIY Home Solar Panel On A Budget</h1>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" title="DIY Solar Guide" src="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/homemadeenergy-e1300186699639.jpg" alt="" width="387" height="398" /></p>
<p>Do you want to know how to build a residential home solar panel via a Do It Yourself (DIY) approach to save money? If you do, check out <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/homemade-power/ben-ford-solar-panels-building-guide/">Ben Ford solar panels</a> building guide to learn the step by step process with High Definition (HD) instructional videos. Click on the link below to visit Ford&#8217;s web site right now.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">==&gt; <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/homemade_energy">Click here to visit Ben Ford&#8217;s web site</a></h2>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/will-residential-solar-generator-work-for-canadian/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Keeping Your Home Safe &amp; Save Energy With Solar Post Lights</title>
		<link>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/keeping-your-home-safe-with-solar-post-lights/</link>
		<comments>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/keeping-your-home-safe-with-solar-post-lights/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 10 Oct 2011 01:26:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[renewable energy devices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[solar post lights]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Solar Power]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/?p=2049</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Solar lights for driveways are gaining popularity these days, they not only provide light but also guidance to the people for the night time guests who come by automobile or on foot. Some people also integrate the solar driveway lights for the overall security plan for their homes. These lights not only provide guidance and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" title="Solar Post Lights" src="http://www.poundland.co.uk/images/1055/original/solar-post-lights.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="360" /></p>
<p>Solar lights for driveways are gaining popularity these days, they not only provide light but also guidance to the people for the night time guests who come by automobile or on foot. Some people also integrate the solar driveway lights for the overall security plan for their homes.</p>
<p>These lights not only provide guidance and security but enhance the beauty of your homes which automatically adds value to your property. The biggest attraction of having solar lights is its easy installation and cost, you do not need to dig and run the lines to transmit power to the nearest electrical outlet. This saves lot of money which you would otherwise spend on digging and running of the lines.</p>
<p>Solar lights give you total freedom to place the <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/diy-solar-panels/cheap-solar-cells-inexpensive-pv-cells-for-solar-panels/">solar panels</a> and it automatically takes it from the nature, the sun. The more exposure to sunlight means better lights at your home. The solar cells get charged and collect energy from the sunlight during the day, the same power is released during the nights which give power to your LEDs in the lights.</p>
<p>It follows the same pattern like <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/deep-cycle-battery/diy-battery-bank-for-home-solar-power-system/">rechargeable batteries</a> at your home and in the long run you save lot of money. Since you do not need to purchase the lights, it ends up in giving you the clean energy as compared to the conventional power and your investment in solar power energy recovers the cost in few years.</p>
<p><a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/energy-efficient/designer-edge-l949-solar-led-lights/">Solar post lights</a> offer a great solution to the security plan of your home, by having more lights inside and outside the garden makes it a difficult target for burglars and thieves. The well lit house is not an easy target for burglars, they always look for a house which has less light and the surroundings are dark.</p>
<p>Solar driveways concept is very recent for the outdoor lighting, these lights have become quite popular in recent years due to the technology advancement. The three main obstacles which made solar lights difficult to install have been solved.</p>
<p>Today solar panels are more efficient, the breakthrough gave smaller solar panels to generate more energy even in less light. This means the solar panel can now collect more energy than the older and much larger solar panels which were used earlier.</p>
<p>Improved storage capacity is another area because now solar post lights use lithium and NiCad batteries which hold energy that is to be supplied to the solar panels. This means large quantity of energy can be saved in smaller batteries.</p>
<p>Also these batteries have a long life and do not require either replacement or repairs. Today all the solar post lights use LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes), these LEDs are much more efficient than the conventional florescent, incandescent, halogen or any other bulbs.</p>
<p>LEDs have the property of transferring higher percentage of energy into light, which are much higher than any other bulb and there is also no heat generated, these bulbs are longer in size than in other bulbs. These new breakthroughs have made solar light that are small, economical and efficient.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/keeping-your-home-safe-with-solar-post-lights/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Breaking Our Home Energy Dependency With Solar Technology</title>
		<link>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/breaking-our-home-energy-dependency-with-solar-technology/</link>
		<comments>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/breaking-our-home-energy-dependency-with-solar-technology/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 09 Oct 2011 00:58:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[energy saving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Green Living]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home power consumption]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[solar technology]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/?p=2045</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Our life today is overly dependent on electricity; we almost feel incapacitated without electric supply being available at any place. We however hardly ever spare a thought about electricity being not eco-friendly, do we? Despite all the concern about promoting eco-friendly products and gadgets in our day to day life, we keep using electric power [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" title="Energy Efficient House" src="http://www.instablogsimages.com/images/2009/05/21/solar-house_1_Eq8KH_69.jpg" alt="" width="440" height="300" /></p>
<p>Our life today is overly dependent on electricity; we almost feel incapacitated without electric supply being available at any place. We however hardly ever spare a thought about electricity being not eco-friendly, do we?</p>
<p>Despite all the concern about promoting eco-friendly products and gadgets in our day to day life, we keep using electric power with abandon and thus, albeit unconsciously, defeat this very idea!</p>
<p>Solar technology systems can certainly help; yes this novel technology has been used to produce power systems that can run most gadgets right from TV, sound systems to <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/tools/concept-sl-100-led-solar-security-light-review/">garden illumination</a> that we use.</p>
<p>In fact, we have to use solar cells to produce power; these convert sunlight into electricity. The gadgets that are used to get power for domestic use comprise panels that are exposed to sunlight and thus act as the receptacles that provide solar radiation to the cells that convert it into electric power.</p>
<p>It may sound somewhat cumbersome but just a look at the actual gadget will satisfy you about their simplicity of arrangement and design. Further, these systems operate silently and need least regular maintenance; installation too is pretty easy.</p>
<p>If well-assembled, solar power systems are long lasting. The most important feature of this way of getting power is that you are deriving it from the perennial source of sunlight that happens to be available free of cost to every individual!</p>
<p>So, once the system is installed in your house, you don’t have to pay for power consumption. Ovens in your kitchens and geysers in baths that consume heavy power and cost you a fortune by way of power bills, are well suited to be run with solar power systems. They also do not cause any mess around the area they are installed at and give an extremely clean look.</p>
<p>You do not have to worry about the location for installing such a system; <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/diy-solar-panels/cheap-solar-cells-inexpensive-pv-cells-for-solar-panels/">solar panels</a> are available in a wide variety of sizes and you may pick as per the availability of space in your house. Other than the panels, the systems do not have any bulky parts.</p>
<p>So, the whole solar power system can sit with least obstruction or change to your existing outlay and the benefits can be brought home with least fuss. One important point before you can think of getting electricity through solar systems is that you should be located at a place with enough sunlight through most parts of the year.</p>
<p>It is always advantageous to install these systems on roof tops so that the panels receive sunlight throughout the day time. The government encourages installation of solar systems through grants to real estate developers under Non-profit Affordable Housing Expense Program.</p>
<p>Power is a huge concern worldwide and any alternative source is being promoted to help meet its generation-demand gap. If you are hunting for an economical property, it may be worthwhile looking for one equipped with subsidized home solar power system.</p>
<p>Though if you are the one with some technical orientation, such a system is never a problem to assemble with the help of “do-it-yourself” <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/home-solar-power/plug-in-solar-kit/">solar kits</a>. Else, even paying for the technician in getting it installed may be quite worthwhile considering the long term benefits of economy in running power costs.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/breaking-our-home-energy-dependency-with-solar-technology/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>12 Ways To Troubleshoot A Faulty DIY Home Solar Power System</title>
		<link>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/12-ways-to-troubleshoot-diy-solar-system/</link>
		<comments>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/12-ways-to-troubleshoot-diy-solar-system/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 03 Sep 2011 00:34:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[homemade solar system]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Troubleshoot A Faulty DIY Home Solar Power System]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/?p=1913</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A home solar power system or a Photovoltaic (PV) system normally includes a series of solar panels consisting of a set of interconnected solar cells, an inverter, a battery and interconnecting wiring. Solar panels can be easily constructed at home as a Do It Yourself (DIY) exercise. However, sometimes the solar electrical system installed at [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Solar Cells" src="http://solarcircus.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/img_0347-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></p>
<p>A home solar power system or a <a href="http://science.nasa.gov/science-news/science-at-nasa/2002/solarcells/" target="_blank">Photovoltaic</a> (PV) system normally includes a series of <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/diy-solar-panels/cheap-solar-cells-inexpensive-pv-cells-for-solar-panels/">solar panels</a> consisting of a set of interconnected solar cells, an inverter, a battery and interconnecting wiring. Solar panels can be easily constructed at home as a Do It Yourself (DIY) exercise.</p>
<p>However, sometimes the solar electrical system installed at home does not function properly. Nothing can be more irritating than finding, when one gets up in the morning, the solar panel indicating low pressure even when there is a bright sunshine.</p>
<p>It is even more exasperating to find that the batteries are weak. It is extremely difficult to identify the problem, especially if someone is outside his home and is in a shed on a mountain or in a farmhouse, where additional power from the solar electrical system is absolutely essential.</p>
<p>If assembled properly, solar cells and arrays are highly dependable and can withstand extreme weather conditions and even hailstones, <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/home-solar-power/how-to-clean-solar-panels/">solar panel systems</a> are, luckily, very durable and generally, trouble-free. However, on some occasions they, too, develop some faults.</p>
<p>If such a situation arises, the faults should be located and rectified without any delay; otherwise the other components can also get damaged because of excessive power loads on them. Let us assume that the solar arrays have been functioning efficiently for quite some time and that the lower power generation due to malfunctioning of the solar system occurred all of a sudden and is an unforeseen development.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, this post cannot devote any space to deal with topics on tips to rectify the faults of either controller or inverter. If the solar array system was a purchased one, it may be better to go through the instructions manual and read the troubleshooting tips offered in the diagnostic chapter of the manual.</p>
<p>Alternatively, it is also advisable to contact the dealer or the manufacturer who supplied the system. They would be able to answer all the queries relating to the problem and offer solutions.</p>
<p>On the other hand, if the array is a Do It Yourself (DIY) project, the fault can be easily located and it may not be difficult to get the system back in operation.</p>
<p>However, before checking and rectification work is initiated, taking proper precautions is absolutely essential as the solar array generates electricity. If one is not confident, it is always advisable to seek the services of a professional for assistance.</p>
<h1>Troubleshooting A Homemade Solar Energy System</h1>
<p>The following guidelines may help to sort out the problem:</p>
<p>1) Take out the power isolation switch or even better, disconnect the terminals of the battery.</p>
<p>2) Inspect the panels to ensure that they are free from dust and leaves. It is a common feature to find heaps of leaves on the surface of solar panel in autumn, particularly if it is a farmhouse or a house on the hills.</p>
<p>3) Verify if there is any new electrical appliance in the house that consumes more power than anticipated.</p>
<p>4) Make sure that no equipment in the house is defective. If an appliance is not working efficiently, it is bound to drain out more power.</p>
<p>5) Ensure that there is no physical damage to either the surface of the solar panel or their configuration.</p>
<p>6) Ensure that the terminals of the battery are not corroded.</p>
<p>7) Make sure that controller and inverter are functioning efficiently and that the connections are intact.</p>
<p>8) Verify the power leads and ensure that wiring is not damaged.</p>
<p>9) Make sure that there are no tree branches on the cables and that entire wiring is intact without any breaks or worn out insulation.</p>
<p>10) Take a look at the roof and ensure that there are no electrocuted animals that may have damaged internal wiring.</p>
<p>11) Ensure that panel output leads are properly connected and are not affected due to corrosion.</p>
<p>12) Finally, disconnect the panels and find out, in bright sun, whether they are generating almost optimum level of electricity.</p>
<p>After checking all the essential parts of the solar electrical system, it is necessary to check the functioning of the panels. For this, the array should be disconnected to find out whether electricity is passing through the output lead properly.</p>
<p>After ensuring that that power supply is good, the performance of controller and inverter should be confirmed, besides checking carefully in-house wiring and various appliances in the house.<script type="text/javascript">
    hopfeed_template='';
    hopfeed_align='LEFT';
    hopfeed_type='IFRAME';
    hopfeed_affiliate_tid='diysolarhomes';
    hopfeed_affiliate='willyap';
    hopfeed_fill_slots='true';
    hopfeed_height='280';
    hopfeed_width='336';
    hopfeed_cellpadding='5';
    hopfeed_rows='4';
    hopfeed_cols='1';
    hopfeed_font='Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, Sans Serif';
    hopfeed_font_size='9pt';
    hopfeed_font_color='000000';
    hopfeed_border_color='FFFFFF';
    hopfeed_link_font_color='3300FF';
    hopfeed_link_font_hover_color='3300FF';
    hopfeed_background_color='FFFFFF';
    hopfeed_keywords='solar';
    hopfeed_path='http://willyap.hopfeed.com';
    hopfeed_link_target='_blank';
</script><br />
<script type="text/javascript" src='http://willyap.hopfeed.com/script/hopfeed.js'></script></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/12-ways-to-troubleshoot-diy-solar-system/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>4 Types Of Battery Suitable For Home Solar Power System</title>
		<link>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/4-types-of-battery-for-home-solar/</link>
		<comments>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/4-types-of-battery-for-home-solar/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Mar 2011 06:26:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[battery]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deep cycle battery. residential solar power]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Solar Power]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/?p=1740</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are many diverse types of batteries you can use in conjunction with a home solar power system. All batteries rely on chemical reactions to convert stored chemical energy to electrical energy. The 4 types of battery suitable for solar use are described and contrasted below. 1) Lead Acid Batteries Lead acid batteries are the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Home Solar Battery Bank" src="http://www.automotivebattery.us/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/1288771577-92.jpg" alt="" width="424" height="340" /></p>
<p>There are many diverse types of batteries you can use in conjunction with a home solar power system. All batteries rely on chemical reactions to convert stored chemical energy to electrical energy. The 4 types of battery suitable for solar use are described and contrasted below.</p>
<h2>1) Lead Acid Batteries</h2>
<p>Lead acid batteries are the most common type of batteries in automobiles. This type of battery relies on the conversion of lead and lead dioxide in a sulfuric acid solution to lead sulfite to release electrons. This reaction can be reversed to recharge the batteries.</p>
<p>Pores in the lead and lead dioxide plates allow greater surface area for the energy-providing reaction, allowing sudden bursts of high current. Although lead acid batteries are less efficient than other forms, they are preferred because they can provide the high amount of current in a short amount of time needed to start a car.</p>
<p>Because automotive batteries should never be highly discharged, they are inappropriate for the powering of home systems, which often require repeated discharges of power. Thus, lead acid batteries are not suitable for residential solar power system</p>
<h2>2) Lead Acid Deep Cycle Batteries</h2>
<p>In contrast, lead acid <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/deep-cycle-battery/cheap-batteries-for-home-diy-solar-power/">deep cycle batteries</a> are designed to have a large amount of their stored power discharged between charging sessions. Their plates are non-porous to allow the battery to withstand deep cycles (up to 80% discharging).</p>
<p>RV marine batteries often do not last as long as other deep cycle batteries. However, they are small and compact, which makes them easy to handle and install. They often come “sealed,” which makes them safer to use indoors. Unfortunately, sealed batteries are sensitive to overcharging, which may shorten their lifespan.</p>
<p>These types of batteries are usually 12-volt, and have varying capacities (up to 100-amp hours). To obtain a larger storage capacity, batteries would need to be attached in parallel, which is less efficient than having a single large battery.</p>
<h2>3) Electric Golf Cart Batteries</h2>
<p><a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/deep-cycle-battery/diy-battery-bank-for-home-solar-power-system/">Golf cart batteries</a> are designed for deep cycles, which give them a longer lifespan and better performance. They are usually lightweight and cheaper per amp hour than RV/marine batteries. They also have the advantage of being less sensitive to overcharging.</p>
<p>Because they are generally 6-volt, while most home systems are 12-volt, they will need to be connected in series, which is more complicated than using a single battery. Because they are not sealed, they need to be stored in a well-ventilated area and occasionally be given water.</p>
<p>Golf cart batteries have too limited amp-hour capacities for use in a large power system. Industrial or stationary batteries are available in 2-volt units, so the appropriate number of units need to be combined. They have very high amp-hour capacities, but are significantly more expensive than other types of battery and very heavy.</p>
<p>Their weight (up to 350 pounds per 2-volt cell) will often require special storage and transportation. Among all, the electric golf cart batteries are the most suitable for home energy system because of its cost and practicality.</p>
<h2>4) Nickel Batteries</h2>
<p>Nickel batteries use nickel alloy plates (<a rel="nofollow" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nickel-cadmium_battery">nickel cadmium</a> or nickel iron) instead of lead plates. Unlike lead-acid batteries, these plates are stored in an alkaline (basic) instead of an acidic solution. While excellent for home power use, the cost is significantly higher than that of lead acid batteries.</p>
<p>Nickel allow batteries can last up to fifty years, and require less maintenance, as they can be fully discharged without damage. Unfortunately nickel alloy batteries are more difficult to dispose of than lead-acid batteries.</p>
<h2>Home DIY Solar Panel Guide</h2>
<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Green DIY Energy" src="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/greendiyenergy2-e1300025357331.jpg" alt="" width="430" height="287" /></p>
<p>Are you planning to make your own solar panel for your home solar power system? If you are, be sure to check out the <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/diy-green-energy/green-diy-energy-review/">Green DIY Energy</a> program.</p>
<p>The program was specially created to teach you step by step how to construct a solar array on a shoestring budget. The instructions are in PDF files and also High Definition (HD) video recordings. Click on the link below and visit Green DIY Energy right now.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">==&gt; <a href="http://www.diysolarhomes.com/blog/greendiyenergy_site">Click here to visit Green DIY Energy now!</a></h2>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/4-types-of-battery-for-home-solar/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>5 Easy Tips To Prolong The Life Of Rechargeable Batteries At Home</title>
		<link>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/5-tips-to-prolong-the-life-of-rechargeable-batteries/</link>
		<comments>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/5-tips-to-prolong-the-life-of-rechargeable-batteries/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 21 Dec 2009 02:12:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Battery Reconditioning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rechargeable batteries]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/?p=778</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How many rechargeable batteries do you use at home? We use rechargeable batteries in most of our electrical devices such as cordless phone, MP3 player, remote control, digital cameras etc because it is much cheap to use compared to regular batteries. Cost wise, rechargeable batteries are definitely much more expensive. It makes sense to take [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Rechargeable Battery Reconditioning" src="http://www.batfaq.com/i/laptopbatteries.jpg" alt="" width="341" height="341" /></p>
<p>How many rechargeable batteries do you use at home? We use rechargeable batteries in most of our electrical devices such as cordless phone, MP3 player, remote control, digital cameras etc because it is much cheap to use compared to regular batteries.</p>
<p>Cost wise, rechargeable batteries are definitely much more expensive. It makes sense to take care of the batteries so it will last for a long time.</p>
<p>The following is a list of 5 easy tips you can use to extend the life of NiCd or NiMh batteries.<br />
<strong></strong></p>
<p><strong>1)	Do not overcharge. </strong></p>
<p>This is a very important point. Do not leave the battery in the charger for more than a day after it has been fully charged. Remove the battery when you see the <strong>“Full”</strong> indicator on the charger.</p>
<p>Even when the charger has an automatic cut off feature, do not leave it in the charging unit. Overcharging is very bad for your battery’s longevity.</p>
<p><strong>2)	Regular full discharge cycle. </strong></p>
<p>When possible, discharge the battery fully at least once a month. You can do this by running the battery down in the equipment until it is dead.</p>
<p>The reason for the full discharge is to prevent the<strong> &#8220;<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memory_effect">memory effect</a>&#8220;</strong> of the battery.</p>
<p><strong>3)	Do not discharge before recharge. </strong></p>
<p>The older type of rechargeable batteries need to be discharged fully every time before recharge. Do not do this with the current type of rechargeable batteries.</p>
<p>Constant discharging will put undue stress on the battery which will reduce its lifespan.</p>
<p><strong>4)	Keep the battery cool. </strong></p>
<p>Do not let the battery to be too hot when charging. When charging, it should raise the temperature of the battery a little and them it should cool off when fully charged.</p>
<p>Charge the battery around room temperature. Excessive heat may cause the battery to explore!</p>
<p><strong>5)	Use quality charger. </strong></p>
<p>Finally, it pays to use a high quality battery charger. A battery charger should be able to charge AA and AAA batteries simultaneously. Preferably, choose a model with heat monitor to prevent overcharging.</p>
<p>A good battery charger recommended is the <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00077AA5Q?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=wilyapjou-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B00077AA5Q">La Crosse Technology BC-9009 AlphaPower</a>.</p>
<h2>Rechargeable Battery Reconditioning Guide</h2>
<p>Are there any ways to bring a dead rechargeable battery back to life? Some batteries can be reconditioned to bring it back to service.</p>
<p>For a step by step battery reconditioning guide, check out the<strong> DIY Recondition Battery Guide</strong> at <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.my-linker.com/hop/5061">www.reconditionbattery.com</a>. The information in the manual will save you hundreds of dollar on rechargeable batteries.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: center;"><strong>==&gt; <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.my-linker.com/hop/5061">Click here to visit Battery Recondition Guide now!</a></strong></h2>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><br />
Related web page:</strong><br />
1) <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/cheap-parts/solar-panel-battery-charger-for-sale-at-amazon/">Solar Panel Battery Charger For Sale at Amazon.com</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/5-tips-to-prolong-the-life-of-rechargeable-batteries/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>6</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Magniwork Magnetic Generator &#8211; Is The Magniwork E-book Just A Scam?</title>
		<link>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/magniwork-magnetic-generator-is-the-magniwork-e-book-just-a-scam/</link>
		<comments>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/magniwork-magnetic-generator-is-the-magniwork-e-book-just-a-scam/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 31 Jul 2009 05:36:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[magniwork comparison]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[magniwork magnetci generatro]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[magniwork review]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[magniwork scam]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/?p=273</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When I was doing my research on the internet on the subject of home renewable energy, I came across an e-book called Magniwork Magnetic Generator. The first time I saw it, I didn’t give much attention to it and moved on. Recently, I have been seeing a lot of advertisement about the magnetic generator guide [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft" title="Magniwork Magnetic Generator e-book" src="http://www.diyecoproducts.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/cover_07.jpg" alt="" width="199" height="268" />When I was doing my research on the internet on the subject of home renewable energy, I came across an e-book called <strong>Magniwork Magnetic Generator</strong>. The first time I saw it, I didn’t give much attention to it and moved on.</p>
<p>Recently, I have been seeing a lot of advertisement about the magnetic generator guide on many renewable energy related web sites. There were also a lot of ads popping up on the Google search results. That got me curious. So I decided to dig further. And yes…I did take out my credit card and bought the manual.</p>
<p>Why did I buy the <strong>Magniwork e-book</strong>? Since, the guide was offered under Clickbank, if I didn’t like the content, I can always ask them for a full refund. That’s one of the reason I like buying information product on the web. There’s not much risk on my side. I don’t think I can return a book to <strong>Barnes and Nobel</strong> or <strong>Borders</strong> store after I read a book that I didn’t like.</p>
<p>My first thought when I’ve downloaded the e-book was, <strong>“is the Magniwork magnetic generator concept a scam?”</strong> The manual teaches people how to generate <strong>free energy</strong> by using the forces of magnets. Is it a guide to make a <strong>perpetual motion generator</strong>?</p>
<p>As far as I know, that kind of technology does not exist or it is simply impractical. That actually drove my curiosity even more.</p>
<p>It took me only about an hour to read through the manual. It’s pretty interesting, I must say. The Magniwork manual claims you can make a magnetic dynamo by placing strong magnets on specific location.</p>
<p>The <strong>“attraction”</strong> and <strong>“repelling”</strong> forces of magnets will generate potential kinetic energy to spin a flywheel. The flywheel can be connected to an electric generator (similar to a generator used on a bicycle) to produce electricity.</p>
<p>Honestly, I am not sure if the kinetic forces produced by the magnets are capable of spinning the core of the generator. There’s a lot of resistance there.</p>
<p>The videos that come with the Magniwork manual do show a very simple magnet generator apparatus. But how much power is produced by the system is still not very clear.</p>
<p>So, what is my conclusion? Is the <strong>Magniwork magnet generator</strong> concept a fraud? Well, I did learn something new from the manual and I believe there is some value in it.</p>
<p>Can you use a magnet generator to power all your home electrical appliances? Unfortunately, that is only a <strong>pipe dream</strong>.</p>
<p>Perpetual motion generator is a myth. For that kind of technology to become a reality, we have to find a way to solve the <strong>“friction”</strong> issue first.</p>
<p>So, what is the <strong><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.diysolarhomes.com/blog/magniwork_site">Magniwork e-book</a></strong> good for? If you have a kid looking for ideas for a <strong>school science project</strong>, the magnetic generator concept will definitely attract a lot of attention from his teachers and friends. People might even think he is the next Albert Einstein.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">==&gt; <strong><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.diysolarhomes.com/blog/magniwork_site">Click here to read more about Magniwork now!</a></strong></h2>
<p><strong>Other related web pages:</strong><br />
1) <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/earth-4-energy/earth-4-energy-scam-is-arth4energy-a-fraud/">Earth 4 Energy Scam</a> – Is Michael Harvey’s Earth4Energy A Fraud?</p>
<p>2) <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/diy-green-energy/green-diy-energy-review/">Green DIY Energy Review</a> – Is Green DIY Energy Another Scam?</p>
<p>3) <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/power-4-home/power-4-home-review-a-complete-review-of-john-russel-power4home/">Power 4 Home Review</a> – A Complete Review of John Russel Power4Home</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/magniwork-magnetic-generator-is-the-magniwork-e-book-just-a-scam/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Net Metering &#8211; Save Money With Home Solar Power Systems</title>
		<link>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/net-metering-save-money-with-home-solar-power-systems/</link>
		<comments>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/net-metering-save-money-with-home-solar-power-systems/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 30 Jul 2009 07:12:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Renewable Energy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[diy solar panel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Green Energy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[net billing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[net metering]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[renewable energy for homes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Solar Power]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/?p=269</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I have been re-reading my copy of Michael Harvey’s Earth 4 Energy e-book to get some idea for a new blog post. I came across the chapter where Michael wrote about the “Grid Intertied Solar Electric System” and “Net Metering”. I thought that would be an interesting topic…well for solar power enthusiasts anyway. For those [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I have been re-reading my copy of <strong><a href="http://www.diysolarhomes.com">Michael Harvey’s Earth 4 Energy</a></strong> e-book to get some idea for a new blog post.</p>
<p>I came across the chapter where Michael wrote about the <strong>“Grid Intertied Solar Electric System”</strong> and <strong>“Net Metering”</strong>. I thought that would be an interesting topic…well for solar power enthusiasts anyway.</p>
<p>For those who are new to the realm of home solar power system, the grid intertied and net metering topics might be foreign to you. I will try to explain them in more detail.</p>
<p>Generally, as you know, a residential solar power unit uses solar cells to generate electricity from the sun energy. The electric power will go through many electrical components such as charge controller, AC breaker, meter gauges, battery bank, power inverter etc before it reaches the load or the electrical appliances.</p>
<p>Do you know the solar energy system does not have to be independent?</p>
<p>An independent solar system is totally disconnected from any external power circuit or grid. There are multiple pros and cons by having an independent system.</p>
<p>Usually, this kind of system is not chosen by choice. Home owners may have to use this system if there is no power grid nearby or it will cost too much to pull a new set of cables.</p>
<p>The independent system is 100 percent dependent on the sun for energy. As you can see, there may be some disadvantages in using this system. What happens during cloudy or rainy days? No sunlight, no power.</p>
<h2>Tying Into The Power Grid</h2>
<p>For a home solar power system to be more practical, some home owner will tie the system to the existing power grid. Hence, the name “Grid Intertied Solar Electric Systems”.</p>
<p>According to <strong>Earth4Energy</strong>, there are 3 types of grid tie-in solar systems.<br />
1) On Grid<br />
2) Grid-Tied<br />
3) Utility Interactive</p>
<h2>Selling Surplus Power Back To The Utility Company</h2>
<p>One clear advantages that many home owners like about residential solar power system is the <strong>“net metering”</strong> or <strong>“net billing”</strong> effect. This happens when the amount of power generated by the solar system is more than enough to power the household appliances.</p>
<p>What do you do with the surplus power? You sell it back to the power utility company. The exchange happens when you notice the power meter is <strong>moving backwards</strong>.</p>
<p>When this happens, you will be getting credit on your future electricity bill. Not only are you saving money, you are making money by getting free energy from the sun.</p>
<p>Not all districts have this kind of arrangements. You have to consult with your local electricity provider or statutory regulatory agency for further information.</p>
<p>To experience the net metering effect, your home solar power system would have to be scaled up considerably. Meaning, you have to build larger solar arrays and have a bigger battery bank.</p>
<p>The amount of power generated has to be more than what you require on a daily basis. At this point, you have to consider your Return On Investment (ROI).</p>
<p>There are many other benefits of using a home solar power system. Michael Harvey wrote a comprehensive chapter in his Earth 4 Energy e-book.</p>
<p>If you want to know what you will get from Michael’s renewable energy manual, be sure to check out the <strong><a href="http://diysolarhomes.com">Earth 4 Energy review</a></strong> page.</p>
<p><strong>Other related pages:</strong><br />
1) <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/magnetic-energy/magniwork-review-is-magniwork-generator-system-a-scam/">Magniwork Review</a> – Is Magniwork Generator System A Scam?</p>
<p>2) <a href="http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/diy-green-energy/green-diy-energy-review/">Green DIY Energy Review</a> – Is Green DIY Energy Another Scam?</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://diysolarhomes.com/blog/renewable-energy/net-metering-save-money-with-home-solar-power-systems/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>

