Using a solar power system to produce electricity is not the same as using solar to produce heat. Solar thermal principles are applied to produce hot fluids or air. Photovoltaic principles are used to produce electricity. A solar panel (PV panel) is made of the natural element, silicon, which becomes charged electrically when subjected to sun light.Research Method

Solar panels are directed at solar south in the northern hemisphere and solar north in the southern hemisphere (these are slightly different than magnetic compass north-south directions) at an angle dictated by the geographic location and latitude of where they are to be installed. Typically, the angle of the solar array is set within a range of between site-latitude-plus 15 degrees and site-latitude-minus 15 degrees, depending on whether a slight winter or summer bias is desirable in the system. Many solar arrays are placed at an angle equal to the site latitude with no bias for seasonal periods.

Solar power systems are becoming a more and more popular option for homes today. It is no wonder why with all they do to save money as well as to save the environment. The way they save the environment is by making use of solar energy. Sunlight is an inexhaustible energy source as opposed to many other sources of energy.

In addition to not contributing to the depletion of the planet’s resources, solar power systems do not create any harmful emissions. This is untrue of the fossil fuels used to create city power. The use of a free and renewable energy source is also they way in which they create money savings for homeowners.

Solar Power Benefits

The two most obvious benefits of solar power, and what is so alluring about it, are the fact the sun shines every single day for free, and that solar power panels generate zero CO2 emissions.

Fossil fuels create large amounts of CO2, and CO2 contributes to what is commonly called global warming.  Yet, alternative energy sources such as solar power do not create CO2 emissions.  Solar power is a source of “clean energy” or “green energy,” and coupled with its abundance there is ample reason for us to continue to explore solar energy not just as an alternative energy source, but as a potential foundation of energy production.

The rising costs of fuel and utilities coupled with the deep economic recession has many homeowners looking for ways to cut the costs of energy. While early solar panels were inefficient and high maintenance, technological advances have made solar energy cheaper and easy to harness.

Local, state and national government agencies each offer solar power grants. Before applying for a solar power grant, research which type of system suits your needs and develop a rough cost estimate. Some states provide other incentives such as tax credits to help offset the cost.  Louisiana for example provides a 50% tax credit for the purchase of solar power systems.