Internet Resources And Audio Books
| Home |
| Solar Power Articles Home |
| QA Solar Power |
| Solar Electric |
| Solar Home |
| Solar Power |
| Solar Power System |
| Solar Technology |
| Solar Thermal |
| Solar Water |
| Wind and Solar Power |
QA Solar Power
Unless you have a severe sun allergy that prohibits you from walking outside or being near a window during the day, you have felt the power of the sun. The warming rays ensure humanity's very existence. Since the beginning humans have needed the sun to grow food, provide warmth and light the way. It may just be another star in the sky but for Earth it is what gives us life. There is more to the sun than just allowing us to spend a day outside. It can be the solution to our energy problems. Solar power may be the future of the Earth in more ways than one and in this audio program we will discuss some of the most common questions and answers regarding solar power.
Who first used solar power?
It is believed that the ancient Greeks utilized the sun when constructing their buildings. They realized that houses and buildings facing the sun would receive more warmth and light. Native Americans followed the same practice. The first industrial use of solar power was brought about thanks to Auguste Mouchoute in 1861 with his steam engine that was powered by the sun. His invention may not have been very popular with the coal industry but it was a start in the right direction for the use of solar power.
Is solar power and solar energy the same thing?
Actually even though people interchange both words, they are not the same thing. Solar energy is the "catch all" term that describes all the uses of solar rays. Solar power is the specific action of photovoltaic rays being captured and converted into electricity. Most people do not realize the difference and it is a very common misconception.
How do I utilize solar power for my house?
There are ways to use solar power in your home. The first thing you have to do is decide what appliances you want to try running using solar power. Many people are electing to use solar powered water heaters as a way to lower their overall electricity bills. One thing you have to remember is that solar power equipment is contingent upon space, hours of sunlight and watts of usage. Unless you are an electrical engineer or have extensive experience with installing and using solar power, your best option is to hire an environmentally friendly architect and contractor to review your location and home.
What happens if it is a cloudy day?
Unless you have storage for your collected solar power, you will have to rely on other means to heat, cool or power your home. If the solar panels do not receive sunlight, the process of converting the thermal rays into electricity does not happen. If you do have storage, the power will be pulled from there.
What is the Kyoto Protocol?
The Kyoto Protocol is an agreement between nations that is aimed at reducing the consumption of fossil fuels and reducing the amount of greenhouse gases. Current theories state that the "Greenhouse Effect" is a dire predicament Earth is facing as rising temperatures occur all over the Earth. This rise in temperature will allegedly cause climactic changes and the extinction of many species.