North Carolina is a Location of New Apple Solar Power Plant

To power its $1 Billion information center, Apple Inc., one of the world’s leading companies, plans to build a large solar plant in North Carolina. Apple creator Steve Jobs, who recently passed away, had described North Carolina as Eco-friendly wherein a contemporary data center could be put up. Little or no official statement has been made about the program but primary effort has already started when preparing for the installing of solar PV such as the clearing of the acreage for construction which has angered some of the residents. The company carries a permission to clear 171 acres of property in Maiden, North Carolina. This reportedly carries a codename of Task Dolphin.

It was found out by Greenpeace in which 94 percent of Apple’s generative and cooling power originate from nuclear or fossil fuel energy and the corporation announced its findings in April 2011. Such energy sources are known to be not too environmentally friendly and environmentally-friendly. Apple has constantly already been criticized by environmental groups and activists for the bad impact of the upshots of its power on the environment. Apple has already been the topic of heated criticism on toxic substance overuse and for the bad quality of its suppliers in the past.

The implementation of Task Dolphin might be Apple’s way of showing its support for environmental and environmentally friendly development. In spite of the reports from Greenpeace and other environmental groups, Apple actually prides itself as a green company as they use environmentally friendly energy in some of their facilities as announced by their website. Apple’s solar power plant in Austin Texas,Sacramento and Cork Ireland are 100 percent powered by renewable energy.

Little is known about Project Dolphin so far because it has not been formally announced to the public yet. Even county officials have limited information on the solar farm save for a staff engineer who approved the control permit for erosion. It was allegedly not stated in the permit how much of the 171-acre acreage will be used for setting up solar panels but it mentions of multiple gravel roads for better access to the structures in which will perhaps be constructed there. During and after the completion of its solar facility expansion task, Apple promised not to block any streams and waterways in the area. A Greenpeace spokesman had estimated that the site would generate about 30,000 MW hours per year in best conditions with the best solar panels installed.

With a bright success that awaits the solar power technology, now could be the best time to invest on the solar pv system. Waste no time and sign up now to get quoted coming from very reliable local suppliers of solar panel equipments.

Habitat for Humanity for Dallas Houses and Solar Panel Manufacturers

Manufacturers of Solar PV Solar City, Trina Solar, SolarUS,SES21, SolarTrek, Schletter and Bosch Solar Energy have all partnered with Habitat for Humanity for a housing project in Dallas. These manufacturers are going to be providing free residential PV systems to 13 houses where each will be installed with solar PV systems on their roofs. This is a new milestone for the organization as it seeks to continue in providing simple, respectable and affordable housing for the people in need.


Habitat for Humanity was founded by a the farmer and biblical scholar Clarence Jordan along with other people with the goal of promoting reconciliation among races. It was born in Koinonia Farm in the US around 1942. The Fuller couple, Milliard and Linda, visited Koinonia in 1965 because they want to begin renewed lives as Christians concentrating on service. Fuller and Jordan then created the idea of “partnership housing”. The concept of the organization according to their website is “centered on those in need of suitable shelter working alongside with volunteers to build simple, decent houses”. To keep the project moving, they have a revolving fund called “The Fund for Humanity”. The money is from new home owners who paid for their house with absolutely no interest as provided by supporters of the organization and a variety of fund-raising activities. The funds would then be used for even more houses to be built for deserving families.


In 1973, the Fuller couple made a decision to bring the organization into other places of the globe with the borrowed idea of The Fund for Humanity. The Habitat for Humanity International came to life in 1976. The newest statistics (as of September 2011) indicated that the organization has built 500,000 homes and provided decent homes for more than 2.5 millions individuals.


One of the foundation’s current projects is by providing homes for Dallas families. As written above, solar panels will be given by solar panel manufacturers and not only that as the houses will be built with a solar hot water system. The Vice President of Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA, Tom Kimbis, stated that the solar pv systems that will be installed in all of the houses can help the families save a great deal every year. This can also show that solar power is possible in the US.


Beverly Stibbens, Director of Corporate Engagement at the Dallas-area Habitat for Humanity, assured them that every homeowner is well-equipped to maintain the energy-efficient home installed with solar panels. The selected homeowners in exchange must commit to 400 hours of service with the organization as well as attend education programs on how to be a homeowner and good neighbor.

How Efficient is Solar Power Technology?

The field of research that specialize in using system devices that transform the sun’s energy into sustainable energy is often being referred to when talking about photovoltaic technology. Solar PV panels, when subjected to high levels of sunlight, should be able to give average homes and commercial areas with their electrical requirements.


The simplest element of a solar panel system is a solar cell. It is derived from semiconductors, usually silicon-based. A solar PV module based on moncrystalline silicon is considered to be the most expensive and most efficient. Polycrystalline and multicrytalline technology has been used as a different form of solar panels.

The Background of Photovoltaic Solar Power Technology

Many people believe the discovery of solar photovoltaic effect is a current event. However, it was initially discovered in 1883 by Charles Fritts. Subsequently, Albert Einstein won a Nobel Prize in 1923 for his theories which defined the photoelectric effect.


NASA was the first organization that used modern solar panels to power its space vehicles. Since these structures can be found in remote areas in space, a solar panel with no moving parts is a perfect electrical source.


The recent years have seen a growth in solar PV technology. Spain, Germany and the United Kingdom now offer feed-in tariffs and government incentives which built a secure market for this industry.

How Successful Are Solar Power Technology?

This fast growing recognition for alternative forms of energy sources paved the way for a more extensive research and testing on solar technology systems. A solar panel nowadays gets increasingly efficient and reliable. Add to the fact that solar energy does not give off harmful by-products through the burning of fossil fuels, this technology would only grow more at some point.

Today’s solar power technology could transform about 20 per cent of the energy from the sun. It is forecasted that upcoming solar panels could have an efficiency of 40 per cent. In fact, the newest solar panels are based on molecular and quantum platforms that are manufactured by implanting carbon nanotubes and quantum dots in treated plastic.


Considering the use of solar PV panels to funnel the sun’s power and provide you with electricity would be a great move. A more comprehensive read on solar panel information would be found at the supplier sourcing website. You can get a free quotation when you choose to set up one of your own solar panels at home or in your work place.

Most recent Updates of Solar Power Around the World

More and more households are getting the benefits of solar power for homes use. However, the success of this renewable energy is currently under siege by cynics. Regardless of that, all around the world there have been recent good news about solar technology.

 

 

Solar Power costs rivals fossil fuel in Australia

Let’s kick off with good news which is about the cost of solar panels in Australia. According to Australian Photovoltaic Association spokesperson Dr. Muriel Watt, solar powers are generating electricity so cheaply that - subsidies excluded - it could almost compete with coal which is the source for conventional electricity. We are hoping that United Kingdom will soon trail the footsteps of Australia to maximize the public acceptance of this renewable energy.

Integrated next generation solar technology for approaching patents of Apple

The US Patent and Trademark Office leaked 20 newly granted patents of Apple devices which uses solar energy to extend battery lives. Moreover, these beta creations have a built-in black panel reflector that illuminates the laptop screens provides a cool visual with the aid of sunshine. As products still on ‘patent stage,’ years may still need to be counted before they are released to the market.

FITs for renewable power in UK may be reduced

The Solar century, one of the leading solar companies in the United Kingdom, said that the price of a typical solar PV system that cost £13,383 the previous year now costs £10,450. To attract more households to convert, the government has subsidized the cost of this renewable power source to as much as 20-25%. However, come April 2012 the UK government might slash the munificent FITs of up to 9% hence, if you want to install the Solar PV system, do it now or read more about solar power news.


Despite having a cut on the government FITs, using solar power as the main source of your electricity will still spare you from paying so much on your monthly electricity. And of course, the advantages you are giving to your environment is already a dead giveaway. So sign up now and quoted by a highly trusted provider of solar panels in your location and enjoy the advantages of having a solar PV system for your household.

Actor Leonardo DiCaprio Installed Solar Panels Into His Home

Leonardo DiCarpio deserves no greater introductions as most, if not all, already know him. For the benefit of those who were living inside a cave over the past decade, Leonardo DiCarpio is the actor made famous for his portrayal of Jack in the blockbuster movie Titanic together with Kate Winslet who starred as Rose. Other movies by DiCarpio are Catch Me If You Can, The Aviator, Blood Diamond and Inception. His romantic life is as publicized as his career including his relationship with the hot Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bündchen. Just recently, he was involved with Gossip Girl celebrity Blake Lively. With all those mentioned, what sets DiCaprio apart from mega-celebrities is his love for the environment. He owns a hybrid vehicle and lives in what one may consider a trending solar panels for your home type of houses. He is a recognized environmentalist and has received citations from environmental organizations due to his activism.


DiCarpio has joined with Al Gore in raising awareness regarding global warming. They appeared together in 2006 at the Academy Awards. In one of Leo’s numerous interviews, he stated that global warming is the number one environmental challenge. He produced one documentary entitled 11th Hour which features global warming and other ecological issues.


He also set his own foundation named leonardodicarpio.org which is focused on sustainable programs for the environment. In 2001, his organization achieved the Martin Litton Environmental Warrior Award. He has generously donated $1,000,000 to the Wildlife Conservation Society in November of 2010 as well as donated another $1,000,000 for the relief campaigns in Haiti after the earthquake in 2010.


To be a good model, leo puts his words into actions by flying on commercial flights instead of using private jets. He has several properties which include an island on Belize, previously called British Honduras, and has made plans to convert it into an Eco-friendly resort. In addition, his residence in Manhattan is an eco-friendly building that is probably installed with a solar PV (photovoltaic) system and overlooking the Hudson river. Leo efforts turned out to be outstanding since he has worked with a lot of environmental organizations and supported efforts for sustainable development. He was recently seen participating in Live Earth concerts.


DiCarprio is definitely someone to look up to with regard to his philanthropic and environmental initiatives. If you are one of those inspired by his environmental activism and would want to follow his lead, you can start by installing a solar panel system in your home. You can go over to this solar panel website and be more informed in using solar energy.

Using Solar Energy for the Home in UK

The sun is the biggest source of energy for the earth but unfortunately, we haven’t used it to its maximum potential. It has been said that in 2008, only 0.02 percent of the world’s total energy supply was from the sun. However, this is projected to increase as more people are using solar power for their homes. In the year 2009, solar panel users have increased by 83%. The highest number came from the country of Germany which is now being considered as the world’s largest consumer of solar energy.

 

  Solar Powered Homes: Where to Begin?

A number of people have become interested with solar energy UK as an alternative energy source but they don’t know where to start. Some of the guidelines in starting a solar-powered home are listed below.

     * See if your roof has the correct angle or orientation.

To start, one must check that the area where the panels will be placed should be direct to the sun and must be free from any obstructions. Rays from the sun must hit the panels without difficulties to absorb the highest possible amount of energy from the sun.

    * Learn about the different cells that are being used in solar panels.

The cells used for solar panels have different features with their own positive and negative characteristics. It would be ideal to learn the specifications required in the area where you are living to maximize the full potential of your solar panels. Consulting a professional involved with solar panels and installation can be a big help although it can cause you more money.

    * Know the installation costs. 

As of the year 2009, A solar panel setup for residential buildings is pegged from $8 to $10 per watt to install. You can do research on the most affordable but quality people who can do the installation for your solar panels. Installing these panels can be done among yourselves, however, one must be very familiar with the entire system. It is therefore ideal to let the professionals do it so the room for error will be minimized which goes for the costs as well.

Converting your home into a solar-powered one may be costly but the financial gains do follow. Aside from the fact that you can save on money for your electricity bills, several ways to pay for the cost of a Solar PV System are present such as rebates, federal and state tax incentives and other opportunities. Installation of a Solar PV System can also increase the home’s value to thousands of dollars. If you want to know more about using solar power for your homes, visit this solar panel site and be on your way to having a solar-powered home!

Learn Interesting Facts that Make Solar Power Really Efficient

More and more people are becoming wiser as they install solar power system for their household. If you don’t want all your money to wind up in your monthly electricity bills then consider the use of solar panels to provide energy to your household. Solar energy can be used in a myriad of ways than you know and it is far more environment-friendly than other forms of energy. Here are some interesting facts about solar power energy that you might find interesting.

General Facts about Solar Energy

• The energy produced by an hour of sunlight to the Earth can sustain the needs of the world’s population for a single year. In fact, as little as 0.3% of the world’s land surface can deliver our electricity via solar power. This gives you an idea how sufficient solar energy is to providing us our needs.

• Making these solar cells can produce about 90% less noxious waste than fossil fuel technologies. Pollution caused by global warming has been an alarming issue to us. Perhaps supporting the production of solar panels would be a far better way to campaign than going on protests and rallies.

• For the past 15 years, the prizes of solar energy devices have dwindled of up to 4% each year. So instead of keeping up with the fossil fuel price hike, converting into solar power system would be a better decision.

• Solar heating, or the use of sun’s energy for hot water heating, has been used for a far longer time than electric heating. Hence, this method has already been proven with regard to its effectiveness. Indeed it sounds simple, but solar heating is the one efficient way of implementing solar thermal energy.

• Because hot water is needed on a daily basis, a typical family of four would spend up to 40% of their utlitly costs on water heating. Why carry on this throe every month when you use of solar heating in your household which would be cheaper in the long run?

• Scientists have calculated that the sun will run out of fuel after 5 billion years.  So, instead of thinking of damnation, can we think of something positive like we have enough solar energy for the needs of the present generation and a million more to come?  

You can never go wrong if you go on a lifetime investment with solar power systems. Apart from being cost-efficient in the long run, you are pretty confident that you are helping the environment. Get a free quote for an installation of solar panels now and enjoy the benefits of a cost-effective and guilt-free (in the viewpoint of an environmentalist) power system in your household.

Solar Energy Processing for Home Use

Solar panels are the devices which convert sunlight into reusable energy. These panels are also known as Photovoltaic Panels or Solar PV. Through a metallic semi-conductor, the sun’s energy are directed as it passes through the panels. This metallic substance is present at the lower and top layer of the solar panel system. This catches the electrons which is then transformed into electricity.

Solar Energy Processing for Home Use

When sun light strikes on the solar panel, some part of the solar energy is absorbed into the panels. This energy is processed to heat up water found in the solar panels for household uses. The panels itself can provide electricity using simple wooden boxes. Pipes may also be found in the boxes for warming water. Oftentimes, the boxes are placed in an area where it gets plenty of sun and are tinted with  black to increase the absorption of heat. Other forms of solar panels may require batteries to store the energy.

Good Effects of Using Solar Panels:

• Solar panels reduce the cost of conventional electricity and eliminate the necessity of purchasing electricity from the provider.

• According to statistics in the UK, up to 230 pounds per year can be saved by utilising solar energy.

• Solar panel installation is a great leap towards protecting our planet. This aids in making one responsible for social and environmental issues.

• It has been calculated that a home or building’s value can rise up to 8,000 European pounds more if it utilises renewable energy.

 These energy saving panels are easy to put up. Both for commercial and residential uses. Post installation of these panels, these are monitored remotely and regular checked for performance by the installers.

With all the positive advantages, the use of solar panels and solar energy have been greatly recommended. To learn more on how cut down the cost of energy bills, check out this solar panel site and receive a free quote on solar panel installations.