“A lot has changed in the intervening 37 years [since President Carter installed solar panels on the White House]: Solar costs have dropped so much that today it’s possible to generate all or most of a home’s electricity — for decades to come — for about the purchase price of a new economy car. Solar installations have increased dramatically. And President Obama has installed new panels on the White House roof.
photovoltaics
Super Solar Cells
Today’s blog post is actually two stories in one. First, we’ll look at cutting edge solar cells, and then we’ll look at how improved, lower cost solar is ushering in a new age of electric transportation and home energy systems.
“Australian scientists from the University of NSW have set a new world record for the efficiency of commercially-viable solar cells.
Solar Panel Awnings
“It is a great idea to create solar panel awnings for your business office (or home) because it keeps the sun out of the windows when the sun is high in the summer and allows sun in the windows in the winter for warmth.”
Solar System for a Small Log Cabin
PV systems can be very simple. This is about as simple and low cost as it gets. (That’s why I like it.)
“A full description of a low cost solar powered 12 volt LED lighting system at a back-country cabin.”