Solar technologies use the sun’s energy and light to provide heat , light, hot water, electricity, and even cooling, for homes, businesses and industry.

Photovoltaic solar cells which directly convert sunlight in to electricity, are made up of semiconducting materials. The simplest cells power watches and calculators and the like, while more complex systems can light houses and provide power to the electric grid.

Building designed for passive solar and daylighting incorporate design features such as large south- facing windows and building materials that absorb and slowly release the sun’s heat. No mechanical means are employed in passive solar heating. Incorporating passive solar designs can reduce heating bills as much as 50 per cent. Passive solar designs can also include natural ventilation for cooling.

Concentrating solar power technologies use reflective materials such as mirrors to concentrate the sun’s energy. This concentrated heat energy is then converted in to electricity.

Solar hot water heaters use the sun to heat either water or a heat transfer fluid in collectors. A typical system will reduce the need for conventional water heating by about two thirds. High temperature solar water heaters can provide energy- efficient water and more…

With the ever-increasing cost of electricity, natural gas and other fuels, more and more people are taking a look at the feasibility of solar power. The cost of photovoltaic cells has come down in the last few years and their efficiency have been improving, however operating the whole house with solar power is still not an affordable option for many people. For those who are looking for a more affordable way to take advantage of free energy from the sun a solar water heater may be the way to go.

There are many benefits to heating your water with a solar system and only a few disadvantages. Let’s take a quick look at the disadvantages first… The major reason that most home-owners do not seriously consider a solar water heater is the cost. Though in China a basic solar water heater can be had for less than $200, in the U.S. the average cost to buy and install a solar water heating system is about $6000 and can quickly climb to over $10,000 for bigger or more complicated systems. The second reason that many people feel that solar water heaters may not more…