STAYSOLAR

Solar energy

is the utilization of the radiant energy from the Sun. Solar power is often used interchangeably with solar energy but refers more specifically to the conversion of sunlight into electricity, either by photovoltaics and concentrating solar thermal devices, or by one of several experimental technologies such as thermoelectric converters, solar chimneys or solar ponds.

Solar energy and shading are important considerations in building design. Thermal mass is used to conserve the heat that sunshine delivers to all buildings. Daylighting techniques optimize the use of light in buildings. Solar water heaters heat swimming pools and provide domestic hot water. In agriculture, greenhouses expand growing seasons and pumps powered by solar cells (also known as photovoltaics) provide water for grazing animals. Evaporation ponds are used to harvest salt and clean waste streams of contaminants.

Solar distillation and disinfection techniques produce potable water for millions of people worldwide. Simple applications include clotheslines and solar cookers which concentrate sunlight for cooking, drying and pasteurization. More sophisticated concentrating technologies magnify the rays of the Sun for high-temperature material testing, metal smelting and industrial chemical production. A range of prototype solar vehicles provide ground, air and sea transportation.

Can I use solar energy to power my home? More and more Canadians are asking themselves this question as people look for affordable, clean and reliable sources of electricity.

Ontario has better solar resources than what most people may think. Solar electric systems will even produce electricity on cloudy days, although generation is significantly reduced.
Small solar electric systems can make a significant contribution to meeting energy needs. A small solar electric system may be a good choice if:
• trees, buildings, or other structures do not shade the installation location,
• there is adequate roof, wall or yard space to permit a collector assembly installation,
• the desired electrical output can be achieved, • there are few personal financial barriers for on-
grid homes or • the home or cabin is located off-grid, away from power lines.
Most people are interested in solar energy because it is a nonpolluting source of power. Solar electric systems are one of the most flexible home-based renewable energy systems available. The system can be moved from one location to another with far greater ease than other renewable energy systems and can be added to over an extended period of time, a few solar panels at a time.
Depending on the solar resource availability and the home’s electric energy consumption, a small solar electric system can lower electricity bills by 50 to 90 percent, prevent power interruptions and avoid the high costs of extending utility power lines to remote locations.
In small solar electric systems, PV cells are typically combined into panels that hold about 40 cells; multiple panels can be mounted together in an array that can measure up to several yards (meters) on a side. Panels come in sizes from a few watts to hundreds of watts—a small home system can use anywhere from 3 to 20 panels, depending on their size. Also available are solar roof shingles, which replace conventional roofing materials while providing electricity less expensively than standard solar panels.

The photovoltaic effect
French scientist Edmund Becquerel first reported the photovoltaic effect in 1839, when he observed a voltage between two electrodes in a beaker of electrolyte after the beaker was exposed to sunlight.
Solar electric or photovoltaic (PV) cells convert sunlight directly into electricity. PV cells are made of semi-conducting materials, similar to those used in computer chips. When exposed to sunlight, these materials absorb light energy and are “excited,” causing electrons to flow through the material and produce electricity. This process of converting light (photons) to electricity (voltage) is called the photovoltaic effec.

Making the decision
The following list can serve as a guide for deciding if a solar electric system is for you:
• the property has good solar resources, • whether local zoning codes or covenants allow
solar electric systems, • long-term investments are a comfortable financial
option, • there is a commitment to decrease the impact on
the environment, or • the property is in a remote location that does not
have easy access to utility lines. Example: You are building a new home or remote
cabin. The local utility will provide power, but at a cost of $20,000 for installation of power lines and poles. This cost could be avoided by installing a solar electric system and becoming your own utility. The utility costs may be amortized as part of the mortgage costs.
Before investing in a solar electric system, research potential obstacles. Some communities, for example, restrict the exterior appearance of homes in residentially zoned areas, although variances are often obtainable. Check the zoning restrictions by contacting the local building inspector, board of supervisors, or planning board. They can specify if a building permit is needed and provide a list of requirements. Condominium and townhouse developments may also restrict installations. An electrical permit is always required.
Most zoning and aesthetic concerns can be addressed by supplying objective data. For example, adding a solar

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