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Frequently
Asked Questions
Q:
Why might I consider solar?
1.
Environmental responsibility
Solar energy is clean energy from
the moment it is installed. This eliminates the carbon
dioxide and mercury given off by coal-burning power plants, or
carbon dioxide generated by the use of natural gas. It also
reduces the demand for nuclear power plants, which have their
unique environmental risks.
2.
Long-term investment
Over time, a solar energy system can
reduce your energy bills and provide eventual financial payback.
Typical payback time is 7 to 14 years for solar hot water (without
space heat), or 15 to 25 years for solar electric.
The payback period for solar radiant heating system
varies greatly depending on how well the building is sealed and
insulated.
3.
Energy Independence
Solar energy systems reduce the need to
import coal, uranium, and natural gas from other states or
countries.
4.
Reduce need for infrastructure by producing power on-site
With
ever-increasing demand for electric power, utility companies must
keep up by installing power lines, towers, and substations
throughout the region. This consumes precious natural
resources and your dollars. By owning your own power
generating system, you are doing your part to reduce the need for
transmission equipment in your area.
Q: Does
solar really work in Wisconsin?
Absolutely.
By comparison, Germany is farther north than Wisconsin, and yet
generates 3 times the solar energy as the entire United States!
Here's the data:
Even
so, solar energy use has been rapidly increasing in Wisconsin in
the last several years.
Q: What
is the Energy Payback Time for a solar energy system?
Energy
payback is an important concept to understand when considering a
renewable energy system. It answers the question, "How
much energy did it take to manufacture the system, and how long
will it take for the system to produce that much clean energy?"
For
solar electric systems being sold today, the energy payback is
estimated at about 4 years. Solar electric technologies
being developed but still not available for purchase are expected
to reduce this time down to just 2 years.
For
more information on this topic, visit the following sites:
http://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy04osti/35489.pdf
http://www.energybulletin.net/17219.html
©
Copyright 2009 SunSpec, LLC
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