Regularly-generated electricity is not only expensive, it is harmful to our planet. Solar power offers an incredible alternative to grid power that is accessible, reliable and cost-effective; helping users save money and the environment. Climate change and fossil fuel depletion have driven innovators to find affordable and eco-friendly solutions to replace the harmful electricity-generation practices we use today.
Solar energy has the power to transform businesses, schools, hospitals, government offices and our homes. Moving off-grid can empower home-owners to take their electricity production into their own hands and combat climate change by using more sustainable and efficient technologies.
Generating Solar Power
The sun is the most powerful energy source in our solar system. Solar power is generated by absorbing that heat and light energy from the sun and converting it into electricity. Photovoltaic cells capture solar energy and convert it into usable solar power that can run huge parts of a home or business. Solar thermal collectors then store that power and transmit it for household use.
The generation of solar power is made possible by advancements in solar panel technology. Each panel is built of a metal frame, a layer of silicone cells and wiring in a glass case with a unique film covering it. They are usually installed on rooftops or other areas exposed to sunlight during the day.
Solar panels, using the combination of photovoltaic cells and thermal collectors, can absorb enough energy to function as a stand-alone source of power or a secondary source that powers specific home functions. Solar power systems turn direct current (DC) energy into alternating current (AC) energy which is transmitted to the house and becomes usable, efficient solar power.
How Solar Power Can Energise Your Home
In recent years, solar power has become a more cost-effective, efficient and reliable source of power for homes around the world. Companies that provide solar power systems are becoming more common and more capable every year where more uses and better methods of installation, generation and transmission are being found. Here are some of the ways solar power can energise your home:
Plugging and Charging Devices
The sheer number of electronics and appliances that are used to run our homes can be overwhelming. Appliances that need to be plugged in, like washing machines, dishwashers and televisions, make up most of our home appliances. The rest are probably devices that require charging every so often, such as phones, speakers, laptops and lamps.
Solar-powered plugging and charging devices (PCDs) give users the opportunity to plug or charge any devices they want without reliance on grid power. PCDs can work individually using its own solar panel or it can be attached to a larger, primary solar power system depending on the homeowner’s particular needs.
Solar-Powered Lights
Probably the most well-known of the solar technologies are solar-powered lights and lighting systems. They are known for their high performance, durability, modernity and attractiveness as the technology has evolved over the decades. Solar lighting is easy to install and fairly inexpensive. You could turn current home lighting systems into ones powered by solar energy or they could be a compliment to your existing grid-powered lights. They can even function in areas without existing power sources and, utilising the charge stored in the solar panel, they can last throughout the day and night.
Solar-Powered Water Heating
Having renewable, homebased power sources like solar energy can reduce the likelihood of incurring hefty utility bills as well as mitigating climate change. A solar-powered water heating system can be a very cost-effective solution for one of the more expensive and draining home electrical requirements.
The significant energy drain of geysers, heated pools and hot washes mean that the benefits of your own, off-grid water heating system could be huge; providing you with hot water to drink, wash clothes, swim in or bathe yourself.
Solar-Powered Cooking and Cleaning
Other household functions that can run on solar power are laundry, kitchen and cooking appliances. Solar-powered ovens and dishwashers alone can save you a lot of money and potential environmental harm associated with traditional electricity. Small appliances like blenders, stoves, microwaves, portable ovens, vacuum cleaners and kettles are simple yet durable tools that can be used by university students, campers, travellers or in the home.
Solar Heating Systems
Similar to hot water, generating and conducting heat around your home can be an expensive and draining use of your grid power. Solar heating systems are another brilliant use of solar energy that can generate heat and circulate it throughout the home.
Solar heating systems make use of roof panels that store and transmit heat through the ceiling and hot air into the home. This heat can be converted and distributed around the house using solar-powered heaters, circulating fans or radiators.
Solar Cooling Systems
Solar-powered cooling systems are yet another means of incorporating the reliable, affordable, sustainable and effective power generation methods offered by solar panels. These are easy to install and manageable for all income levels.
The cooling system usually works with solar-powered cooling fans, air conditioners and standing or wall-mounted fans. Another option is to install a ventilation fan in the attic or roof area of your home which is great for air circulation and heat dispersion.
Conclusion
Cutting on utility costs, becoming more eco-friendly, being self-sufficient and more energy efficient; the benefits of switching to solar-powered systems can transform your house into the most effective, modern and eco-friendly home possible. There are more possibilities that would be unique to you if you decide to energise your home harnessing solar power. Give it a try! The planet and your wallet will thank you.
