Earlier predictions that it will still happen in a decade may no longer be true. The anger generated by the recent prices in oil and its vulnerability to market forces and other events may have already been enough to polarized people, governments and scientific communities into seriously seeking a reliable alternative energy source.

There is no source more reliable than the sun. Even today homes that uses its power not only benefit from the silent, energy generating, inexhaustible power of the sun, they also spike up the prices of their homes. Homeowners who have solar powered homes are reimbursed for the surplus power they supply to the power grid.

Presently, heliostats, photovoltaic cells and plate collectors are being used to collect the energy by focusing these panels towards the sun or constructing and installing the panel’s on spots where the sun shines most. Development in technology as we all know often has a snowball effect. It never stops rediscovering and reinventing that the pace of development could be surprisingly rapid.

Today, a polymer foil, thin as a sheet of paper and lighter by 200 times in comparison with the regular glass collecting plates, are being developed. Odds are, these new inventions and discoveries could well have a positive potential for mass production. Before, the glass-based materials used for heat collection need expensive substrates and require additional support for mounting due to its weight. The polymer foil, being very light could now be attached even to the walls of a structure.

So confident are scientists in the development of this technology that while the polymer foil is being developed, a plastic solar cell, based on nano technology is gaining breakthroughs. This plastic material can collect the power of the sun even on a cloudy day through harnessing the infrared rays is believed to be five times more efficient than current technology.

While plastic materials for harnessing the power of the sun are not novel, it is only recently this plastic composite could harvest the infrared portion. Before, only the visible rays are generated, the infrared part, which is half of the power of the sun, is invisible.

Currently, the best plastic solar cells could only harness 6% of the suns energy, with further study and development, this new plastic solar cells are expected to harness 30% of the suns solar power.

Scientists and researchers both agree solar farms are going to be serving our energy requirements and costs of power will drop. Today the price of solar powered energy is approximately three to four times per kilowatt hour compared with conventional electricity. That price could be altered dramatically though the development of the existing technology and recent discoveries.

The roller pressed flexible plastic materials and the polymer foil are only two of the best hopes in coming to a cleaner, greener and safer environment that ultimately could free the earth from our dependency on the ever-depleting supply of oil.

The Concept of Solar Panels

Solar panels are also known as photovoltaic panels and the atoms that are present in these panels are excited by the action of the sun’s energy. These atoms are present in a silicon layer that lies between two panels known as protector panels.

A formation of electric current takes place as a result of the action of the electrons from the aforementioned, excited atoms, and these are then used by a myriad of external devices. The history of solar panels dates back by hundreds of years, when their sole purpose was to heat the water for use in homes. Many-a-times specially shaped mirror is used for the concentration of light onto a tube of oil. Due to this action, there is a heating up of oil and as these heated oil travels through a vat of water, it instantly results in the boiling of this water. The steam that is a resultant of this process of boiling is used to turn a turbine for the generation of electricity.

The Working of Solar Panels

Pure silicon forms the basic element of all solar panels as its makes for an ideal platform that aids transmission of electrons. This material is used on the plates that form a solar panel. Solar panels are also created by combining silicon panels with other elements, with negative or positive charges.

The Silicon atoms are exposed to the bombardment of photons when negative plates of solar cells are faced towards the sunlight. Once all free electrons are drawn away from the plates, enough electricity is generated to power various electronic appliances that do not require too much electricity to power them.

Features and Types of Solar Panels

Basically there are three types of solar panels, namely mono-crystalline solar panels, polycrystalline solar panels, and amorphous solar panels. The life expectancy of solar panels depends on the type of solar panels selected by you; generally it’s around twenty years or so.

Solar panels do not require sustained maintenance for their upkeep although; if lead acid batteries are used then they must be checked every six months and topped up with distilled water if required. If you are looking for a solar panel for your needs and do not know what size to go for, then the best way would be to calculate your average consumption of electricity on a daily basis. This would give you a fair idea of what kind of solar panel to go for. In the long run, solar panels will reduce your electricity bill by a long way, and hence the option of using solar energy must be explored in a positive manner.

Anyone who wants to save money by learning how to build their own solar panels should click here to continue…

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The way  energy resources are dwindling rapidly and global warming creating climate chaos around the world, increasingly people are seeking out sources for renewable energies for lowering their carbon footprint.  However, even the most environmentally responsible individual is not able to follow these noble pursuits if they do not have sufficient financial resources.  The professional installation of a solar energy system can cost in the thousands of dollars and so many resourceful individuals are turning to the many great resources that help you build your own solar panel. Why pay an arm and a leg to have someone do it for you if you can be a resourceful do it yourselfer with a shoestring budget.

It is possible to completely build your own solar panel, but for the most part, these panels are small and do not produce the wattage necessary to power more than a simple lamp and only for a couple of minutes.  The most effective way to produce power from the sun, when you can’t afford to hire the professionals, would be with a solar panel kit.  These build your own solar panel kits come with everything you need to successfully build your own solar panel in the comfort of your living room, or the garage may be a wiser choice.

Surprisingly, build your own solar panel kits are not difficult to find.  With large companies like GE producing these kits, the build your own solar panel sets are very affordable and offer quicker return on your investment than purchasing and professionally installing a solar energy system.  In general the instructions are easy to follow, even for teens and children, and in no time you are on your way to your own solar power system.

If you are looking to build your own solar panel there are a numerous resources and guides available to help you through the process.  By involving the whole family in the building process, every one will learn how a solar power system works and exactly how the components are put together.  Also, when you build your own solar panel you are giving yourself the knowledge to expand your system on your own, without calling back the installers, and the ability to adapt your current system to meet new design needs.

Making the choice to build your own solar panel is a great investment for your future and the world’s future.  Start making your own power at home and take advantage of this great way to educate yourself while saving money and helping the environment and learn how to build your own solar panel today.

Click here to continue…

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The newly minted HelioSphera represents a significant collaborative success for Calypso and McLane in guiding clients through the complexities of international branding and trademark clearance. With particular emphasis on the energy sectors, both companies were uniquely qualified to support this client’s legal and marketing needs.

Calypso has assisted numerous clients requiring international reach in branding and re-branding, offering counsel on brand architecture as a key component of a company’s overall marketing strategy. “A coherent brand platform is essential for any client, particularly in the international space,” remarked Kevin Stickney, co-founder of Calypso. “With the globalization of markets and the accelerated growth of competition, companies are increasingly expanding the geographic scope of their operations. Fragmentation is high, and branding can be challenging.”

Following a creative process to develop a name that passed cursory availability tests, Calypso enlisted McLane to file U.S. and European Community Trademark Applicators for the HelioSphera name for the client. McLane has an extensive trademark practice and specializes in trademark counsel, selection, clearance and prosecution, policing and enforcement, domain name disputes, and trademark licensing. The firm has developed a network of highly skilled trademark agents and counsel around the world, which allows it to assist companies like HelioSphera to pursue registration on a global basis.

Mark Wright, chair of McLane’s Intellectual Property group says of the client; “It’s incredibly rewarding to help a company launch a product that really matters.  At McLane, we have an outstanding intellectual property practice, so this collaboration was a good fit for us in many ways.

HelioSphera, with a truly environmentally advantageous and cost-effective technology, world-class manufacturing capabilities, and a product that can deliver even in low light situations, is poised by its business model to be a leader in the solar industry—and now has the brand backing from its New Hampshire affiliates to emerge into the global marketplace as a dominant force.

Technorati Tags: heliosphera, solar panels

“Renewing solar and wind tax credits will lead directly to thousands of good paying green jobs across the country, said Jack Hidary, Chairman of Americans for Clean Energy (ACE), “We are also pleased that Congress has included a tax credit for plug-in electric vehicles. Our dependence on oil continues to grow and the adoption of plug-in vehicles is critical to achieving energy independence for America”

“We mobilized thousands of members of our group using Facebook and other technologies,” said Steve Boyd, Executive Director of ACE. “Our members called in to Congress at key points over the past several months to let our representatives know how important this issue is to them.”

“By extending the solar credit for eight years, Congress has finally given the private sector the right signal - it is time to invest in renewable energy,” said Josh Becker, co-founder and Board Member of ACE, “Solar manufacturing companies, as an example, have been reluctant to build out manufacturing plants in the US without a long-term market signal. Now they have one.”

The Stabilization Act, signed into law this past week, provides for an eight year extension of the investment tax credit (ITC) for solar energy. With this eight year extension, solar manufacturers will for the first time be able to confidently invest in job creating operations in the U.S.

In addition to the solar tax credit, the package also includes a one year extension of the producer tax credit (PTC) for wind energy. Americans for Clean Energy will ask Congress to extend the wind tax credit in the next session.

Americans for Clean Energy is a bipartisan organization focused on renewable energy and clean technology. Americans for Clean Energy supports the increased adoption of solar, wind and other renewable energy sources, as well as clean transportation solutions. Americans for Clean Energy uses its Facebook group and fan page and other technologies to organize thousands of members. For more information visit www.americansforcleanenergy.org

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WHO: Solar Energy International and Grupo Fenix, leaders in alternate energy education & development

WHAT: A six-day hands-on learning workshop about solar energy in the Nicaraguan village of Sabana Grande.

WHEN: Monday, November 3 – Saturday, November 8, 2008

WHERE: Sabana Grande, Madriz, Nicaragua

Solar Energy International offers participants the opportunity to become immersed in Sabana Grande, a small Nicaraguan village that has taken up the challenge of becoming a solar culture community. The six-day hands-on workshop will introduce participants to all aspects of solar energy culture, from installing solar panels, to building an LED headlamp, to drinking coffee roasted and brewed with solar-powered equipment. By living with families in Sabana Grande, participants will have the opportunity to learn first-hand the benefits and challenges of using solar energy. Community members will also offer classes on medicinal herbs and cooking with soy. The workshop includes classroom sessions, labs and hands-on field work. This workshop is a partnership with Grupo Fenix, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting renewable energy and sustainable development in Nicaragua.

Tuition for this workshop is $1,150 for non-members and $1,100 for members of Solar Energy International. The cost covers food, lodging and in-country transportation. Part of the tuition goes toward solar ovens and solar PV systems for the community of Sabana Grande. For more information or to register for the workshop please visit www.solarenergy.org.

Grupo Fenix is a non-profit organization founded in 1996 with the mission of developing solar and renewable energies and implementing them throughout the rural towns and villages of Nicaragua. Grupo Fenix operates out of the National Engineering University in Managua and offers hands-on workshops and volunteer opportunities year-round. For additional information about Grupo Fenix please visit www.grupofenix.org.

For additional information about SEI and a workshop schedule please visit www.solarenergy.org or call (970) 963-8855.

Technorati Tags: nicaragua, solar energy, solar workshop

A solar powered portable power station, the PowerTainer from Lumos Solar is an innovation that goes beyond merely offsetting power for homes and businesses with real solutions for disaster relief and the developing world.

The PowerTainer is a portable power supply solution for applications where grid power is not available. This is a unique system because it is a portable, off-grid power source that eliminates the need for generators requiring propane, diesel or gas. The lack of moving parts makes the PowerTainer an extremely robust and reliable power supply that requires virtually zero maintenance.

In light of recent natural disasters escalating due to climate change, it is clear that the need for alternative energy has never been more important. The PowerTainer offers efficient energy solutions in times of crisis when grid power is debilitated by severe storms, such as in Houston, Texas where millions of homes were rendered powerless.

According to Lumos president, Scott Franklin, “The PowerTainer can be a power resource for a variety of relief efforts from communications to water purification to refrigeration - virtually any electrical requirement necessary can be supplied with this infinitely renewable, clean and unlimited energy source.”
The PowerTainer can be easily shipped to remote areas and is ideal for applications where a reliable source of energy is essential but not readily available due to the lack of grid power. This has vast implications on a global scale and encompasses the developing world, disaster relief, military, industrial and residential applications. Some examples include: water purification and desalination, remote construction sites, hospitals, schools, central power for villages, communication, eco-resorts, rural power supply, grid backup, and remote base power.

Technorati Tags: lumos, solar power station

The trouble with solar roof panels is not only that they come in a whole huge range of shapes and sizes, but also the installation can be pretty tricky. Sure, you can pay an arm and a leg to have someone come in and do the work for you, but if you really want to make your solar energy project cost effective, then you are going to have to put in your own sweat equity and do it yourself.

That was the attitude that Andrew and Jane used when they tackled their own solar roof tile job. And it proved to be a lot more expensive and time consuming than they figured it would be. But that is good news for you. Because, after they finally solved all the problems and got the job done, they decided they would share their knowledge with folks like you. So now you do not have to reinvent the wheel. All you need to do is pick up their Solar Panel Installation Guide.

It’s available online now from the Living Off the Grid website, and it is very highly recommended for anyone who would rather save $3,000 on their solar power roof tile job.

Click here for a step-by-step guide on how to make solar panels at home for creating your own energy…

Technorati Tags: homemade solar panels, solar energy, solar panels, solar power roof tiles

Maybe you are not insecure about having to depend on the electrical power that comes from your local utility provider, but would it not even make you feel better to be able to make your own electricity through the technology that is now available from solar, wind and other alternative energy sources? Those who have done it say it really makes you feel proud.

The sun and the wind are free, and therefore, once you have your installations in place, you will never have to lay out another dime for having all the electricity you need for rest of your time. Granted, it does take a bit of an initial investment to get started, but with a little expert help, you can even figure out how to save a lot of money by making your own homemade solar panels.

Get a complete guide on how to make power at home with solar and wind energy and then eliminate your power bill. Visit www.earth4energy.com.

Technorati Tags: homemade energy, homemade solar panels, off grid

The Lumos PowerPort Solar Carport addresses a growing need for alternative energy installation options to meet the diverse needs of potential clients interested in solar but hesitant at the thought of placing panels on their roofs. Lumos refers to their unique integration of solar systems into architecture as Solarscapes^TM. This method of solar installation offers aesthetically pleasing alternatives for renewable energy installations while adding the functionality of providing shade and shelter from the elements. Solarscapes offer the additional benefit of being able to be positioned optimally when traditional rooftop systems will not work due to excessive shading or orientation of the rooftop.

The Lumos PowerPort Solar Carport incorporates innovative double-sided (bifacial) solar panels manufactured by Sanyo. These modules are optimal for this type of freestanding structure since they also generate energy from the backside of the panel as ambient light passes through or is reflected off surrounding surfaces.

The Lumos PowerPort Solar Carport is designed to be a turnkey system that can be delivered virtually anywhere and takes only one day to install. This 3.42-kilowatt structure not only provides shade and shelter for vehicles, but also generates enough electricity to offset a modest household’s electrical needs or the recharging of two electric vehicles.

Renewable energy has never been more accessible thanks to innovations like the Solar Carport giving home and business owners viable options to offset their energy consumption. According to Scott Franklin, president of Lumos Solar, “The PowerPort Solar Carport is an easy, attractive and super functional way to maximize an investment in a solar energy system for a home or business.”

Solar energy is one way to greatly offset the negative effects from non-renewable energy sources like petroleum, coal and natural gas, not to mention the social and financial implications to our society and on a global scale. Dependence on fossil fuels from foreign sources weakens our nation’s security and economic base whereas local, decentralized energy production is the key to our energy independence and security.

As carbon dioxide emission levels continue to rise in the atmosphere causing marked changes in climate and the environment, renewable energy has never been more important. Solar power is an infinitely renewable, clean and unlimited energy resource. There is enough energy from the sun hitting the earth’s surface in just one day to supply the energy needs of the entire world for one year.

In the past, access to renewable energy resources was limited due to cost and efficiencies but this trend is reversing as non-renewable energy prices continue to soar and renewable energy technologies continue to improve.

Technorati Tags: Lumos Solar, solar carport, solar panels