Free Video Reveals a Crazy Secret To Cut Your Electric Bills By 75% (or more) In Just 2 days!!
If you haven’t heard of a stirling engine previously, it is a heat engine that converts heat energy to mechanical energy by cyclic compression and expansion of a gas. Solar stirling engine is a device which converts solar thermal energy to mechanical energy which is converted to electrical energy.It is a cost effective and promising gadget for solar electricity compared to the photovoltaic panels. It generates over 12x the power of regular solar panels in less space and for less money
How does it work?
The parabolic dishes focus the suns rays on the Stirling Engine (conversion unit). Alternatively heating and cooling the gasses inside, the fluctuating pressure is used to drive the pistons up and down, causing the crankshaft to turn the generator and create electricity!
Watch the short video below to learn the secret to produce completely free electricity for your home and appliances!
How does it work?
The parabolic dishes focus the suns rays on the Stirling Engine (conversion unit). Alternatively heating and cooling the gasses inside, the fluctuating pressure is used to drive the pistons up and down, causing the crankshaft to turn the generator and create electricity!
Watch the short video below to learn the secret to produce completely free electricity for your home and appliances!
Stirling Engines As Solar Power Generators for Residential And Commercial Electricity Generation
The Stirling Engine is a simple heat exchange engine which was invented by Robert Stirling in 1816 as an alternative to steam engines. This engine works by utilizing compression and expansion of air at two different temperatures. At one end air is heated and while it is cooled down on the other end, which results in air expansion and compression at two ends causing the piston movement.
As Solar Power Generators
Stirling Engines are now used as solar renewable energy generators and the term is called as thermal solar technology. In this technology heat energy from the sun is utilized to run the engine to generate electricity. In practical use, a solar thermal engine has a large parabolic reflector which is known as solar dish, this dish is coated with silver coating or mirrors are used so that it can reflect sunlight into one focal point in the center where a Stirling engine is placed. Stirling engine receives this sunlight and converts this heat energy into mechanical energy to generate electricity. You will end up generating free and clean energy in the form of electricity.
Solar thermal technology is available as alternate energy for both residential and commercial use.
Residential Electricity Generation
As a residential consumer, you can simply buy a small size Stirling solar engine dish according to your requirements. For a small house you might go for a 1-2 Kw model and place it on your rooftop just like you install solar panels for solar power generation. Solar mounted dish will generate electricity during the day and excess electricity will be stored in batteries for night hours use. House owners will receive clean and free solar energy from the Sun. Residential solar technology is getting popular quickly because solar dishes covers less area as compared to solar panels.
Commercial Electricity Generation
On the other hand, commercial level solar thermal dish systems can be quite larger in size and can generate up to 25 kW or even higher. Commercial users simply buy a solar dish according to their electricity usage, as a small company you might end up buying couple of medium size solar dishes. On larger scale such as government, military or electricity generation for grid these dishes are place in the form of large arrays as giant heat collectors also called as solar farms and they create huge amount of clean electricity. The Worlds largest solar facility has 20,000-dish array, 4,500-acre of land and generates 850 MW.
For further reading on solar thermal technology please check Stirling Engines As Solar Generators in residential and commercial use.
The Stirling Engine is a simple heat exchange engine which was invented by Robert Stirling in 1816 as an alternative to steam engines. This engine works by utilizing compression and expansion of air at two different temperatures. At one end air is heated and while it is cooled down on the other end, which results in air expansion and compression at two ends causing the piston movement.
As Solar Power Generators
Stirling Engines are now used as solar renewable energy generators and the term is called as thermal solar technology. In this technology heat energy from the sun is utilized to run the engine to generate electricity. In practical use, a solar thermal engine has a large parabolic reflector which is known as solar dish, this dish is coated with silver coating or mirrors are used so that it can reflect sunlight into one focal point in the center where a Stirling engine is placed. Stirling engine receives this sunlight and converts this heat energy into mechanical energy to generate electricity. You will end up generating free and clean energy in the form of electricity.
Solar thermal technology is available as alternate energy for both residential and commercial use.
Residential Electricity Generation
As a residential consumer, you can simply buy a small size Stirling solar engine dish according to your requirements. For a small house you might go for a 1-2 Kw model and place it on your rooftop just like you install solar panels for solar power generation. Solar mounted dish will generate electricity during the day and excess electricity will be stored in batteries for night hours use. House owners will receive clean and free solar energy from the Sun. Residential solar technology is getting popular quickly because solar dishes covers less area as compared to solar panels.
Commercial Electricity Generation
On the other hand, commercial level solar thermal dish systems can be quite larger in size and can generate up to 25 kW or even higher. Commercial users simply buy a solar dish according to their electricity usage, as a small company you might end up buying couple of medium size solar dishes. On larger scale such as government, military or electricity generation for grid these dishes are place in the form of large arrays as giant heat collectors also called as solar farms and they create huge amount of clean electricity. The Worlds largest solar facility has 20,000-dish array, 4,500-acre of land and generates 850 MW.
For further reading on solar thermal technology please check Stirling Engines As Solar Generators in residential and commercial use.
Concentrated Solar Power
Concentrated solar power (CSP) is typically associated with solar energy. As a matter of fact, it is an indirect method of converting sunlight to produce electrical power. The process involves the use of mirrors or lenses to focus a huge area of sun-rays onto a limited area. Electrical power is a by-product of the concentrated light that has been transformed into heat which can make a heat engine, like a steam turbine run.
CSP has been widely commercialized. Based on statistical data, CSP market had added generating capacity of about 740MW between 2007 and at the later part of 2010. An estimated 478MW was installed some time in 2010. Spain also put up 400MW in 2010, while the US closed the year with 509MW after brining in 78MW and two (2) hybrid plants of fossil CSP.
CSP has soared to an escalating growth. Some time in April 2011, the construction of CSP with a 946MW generating capacity was started in Spain with the target to operate before 2013 ends. Furthermore, the US started to construct an additional 1.5GW of parabolic trough and power-tower installations, and the contracts for at least another 6.2GW were signed.
The booming interest on concentrated solar power is likewise seen in North Africa, the Middle East, China and India. The parabolic trough plants, which mark 90% of CSP plants, have found a prominent position in the world market.
Historical Development of CSP
A story was told about Archimedes of Syracuse -- the Greek mathematician, astronomer, physicist, engineer and inventor - who made use of a burning glass forconcentrating sunrays in a small area.
The burning glass also known as a burning lens is a huge convex lens that has the capacity to concentrate sunlight onto a tiny spot to heat up that spot thereby igniting its exposed surface. Archimedes employed the burning glass tactic against the invading fleet of the Romans. Because of that, he was able to drive the Romans away from Syracuse in 212 BC.
Some time in 1866, a parabolic trough was used by Auguste Mouchout to produce steam to run the first solar steam engine. In the same year, the Italian Alessandro Battaglia obtained in Genoa, Italy the first patent for a solar receiver. After some years, innovators like John Ericsson and Frank Shuman introduced CSP devices for locomotives, refrigeration and irrigation systems.
It was in 1913 when Frank Shuman completed a parabolic 55-HP solar thermal energy (STE) station situated at Meadi of Egypt to support irrigation. Dr. Robert H. Goddard, who was famous for his liquid-fueled rockets, built the first mirror-dish solar power system.
In 1968, Prof. Giovanni Francia designed and built the first CSP plant located at Sant'Ilario, somewhere near Genoa of Italy with the architectural design of the modern CSP plants with a solar collector in the midst of solar collectors' field. In the year 1981, the power-tower for Solar One with a generating capacity of 10MW situated at Southern California was developed.
However, the 1984 Solar Energy Generating Systems (SEGS) parabolic trough innovation proved to work better. The world's largest solar-power plant is still the 354MW SEGS.
Modern CSP Technology
There are four (4) existing forms of CSP technologies. These are the: (1) parabolic trough; (2) solar power tower; (3) dish Stirlings; and (4) concentrating linear Fresnel reflector. These simple solar concentrators have attainable maximum concentration and can be further increase with the use of more sophisticated or elaborate concentrators.
In the present time, concentrated solar power which is used to generate the so-called solar thermo-electricity or simply electricity is usually steam-generated. Modern developments in CSP technology are carefully engineered to become the leading and more cost-effective systems.
CSP has been widely commercialized. Based on statistical data, CSP market had added generating capacity of about 740MW between 2007 and at the later part of 2010. An estimated 478MW was installed some time in 2010. Spain also put up 400MW in 2010, while the US closed the year with 509MW after brining in 78MW and two (2) hybrid plants of fossil CSP.
CSP has soared to an escalating growth. Some time in April 2011, the construction of CSP with a 946MW generating capacity was started in Spain with the target to operate before 2013 ends. Furthermore, the US started to construct an additional 1.5GW of parabolic trough and power-tower installations, and the contracts for at least another 6.2GW were signed.
The booming interest on concentrated solar power is likewise seen in North Africa, the Middle East, China and India. The parabolic trough plants, which mark 90% of CSP plants, have found a prominent position in the world market.
Historical Development of CSP
A story was told about Archimedes of Syracuse -- the Greek mathematician, astronomer, physicist, engineer and inventor - who made use of a burning glass forconcentrating sunrays in a small area.
The burning glass also known as a burning lens is a huge convex lens that has the capacity to concentrate sunlight onto a tiny spot to heat up that spot thereby igniting its exposed surface. Archimedes employed the burning glass tactic against the invading fleet of the Romans. Because of that, he was able to drive the Romans away from Syracuse in 212 BC.
Some time in 1866, a parabolic trough was used by Auguste Mouchout to produce steam to run the first solar steam engine. In the same year, the Italian Alessandro Battaglia obtained in Genoa, Italy the first patent for a solar receiver. After some years, innovators like John Ericsson and Frank Shuman introduced CSP devices for locomotives, refrigeration and irrigation systems.
It was in 1913 when Frank Shuman completed a parabolic 55-HP solar thermal energy (STE) station situated at Meadi of Egypt to support irrigation. Dr. Robert H. Goddard, who was famous for his liquid-fueled rockets, built the first mirror-dish solar power system.
In 1968, Prof. Giovanni Francia designed and built the first CSP plant located at Sant'Ilario, somewhere near Genoa of Italy with the architectural design of the modern CSP plants with a solar collector in the midst of solar collectors' field. In the year 1981, the power-tower for Solar One with a generating capacity of 10MW situated at Southern California was developed.
However, the 1984 Solar Energy Generating Systems (SEGS) parabolic trough innovation proved to work better. The world's largest solar-power plant is still the 354MW SEGS.
Modern CSP Technology
There are four (4) existing forms of CSP technologies. These are the: (1) parabolic trough; (2) solar power tower; (3) dish Stirlings; and (4) concentrating linear Fresnel reflector. These simple solar concentrators have attainable maximum concentration and can be further increase with the use of more sophisticated or elaborate concentrators.
In the present time, concentrated solar power which is used to generate the so-called solar thermo-electricity or simply electricity is usually steam-generated. Modern developments in CSP technology are carefully engineered to become the leading and more cost-effective systems.
What You Need to Know About Solar Energy As an Oil Alternative
The future of the oil industry remains to be determined. On one hand there's an ever growing energy demand by large expanding economies such a China and India. On the other hand there has never been more investments into alternative energy precisely because we now know that peak oil is inevitable. Global estimates of oil reserves are currently set at 1253 billion barrels of oil and our maximum daily production capacity is 80-85 million barrels. In early 2009, the International Energy Agency (IEA) estimated that demand would exceed supply sometime between 2010 and 2012, revising Shell's estimate of 2015.
However one thing is certain, with demand soon expected exceeding supply, the price of oil will undoubtedly rise.The rise in oil prices would be a devastating blow to the major world economies which some have just barely started to recover from the credit crunch. Meanwhile the major oil companies can rejoice for they profits are expect to soar together with higher oil prices.
Environmental scientists are ringing the alarm on climate change and the need for cleaner fuel sources. They are urging nations to reduce their emissions and environmental impact. Population expansion expected to reach 7 billion in 2011 and 10 billion in 2050 will no doubt add more pressure on demand. Never before have we faced such challenges all at once. The dream solution would be a massive, clean, renewable and cheap source of energy. Is it really a dream though? Maybe not for too long.
What is the energy of the future?
Biofuels may sound like an intermediate alternative, however their production means they could compete with food production or other alternative uses of the resources (1st generation biofuels). 2nd Generation biofuels refers to production from waste products which is limited by man-made wastes. Generally speaking when you talk of biofuels you refer to ethanol, methane, vegetable oil... etc from sources such as landfill gas, soybean, maize, sugarcane...etc. Experts point out that the most probable source of biofuel will come from algae - Algae oil makes up to 60% of the organism's mass and since it thrives in water, it is less likely to have to compete with food production.
Let's take a look at the not-so-distant future: Eventually we will have to move towards other sources of energy as our civilization keeps on evolving. (This would be when we have reached the Type I Civilization on the Kardashev Scale - experts like Michio Kaku put this sometime within the next 100 years. Presently we rank an estimated 0.7 on the scale) Perhaps the greatest source of energy available to earth is the sun. It is the Sun that heats up the earth, causes waves, winds, storms
The Earth receives 174 Petawatts (174 X 10^15 Watts) of energy from the Sun and this generates currents, climates... Compare this to the world's current energy consumption which is about 15 Terawatts (16 X 10^12Watts). To put this into perspective, Dr Gerhard Knies from the Trans-Mediterranean Renewable Energy Cooperation (TREC) estimates that within 6 hours deserts receive more energy from the sun than humankind consumes within a year.
So how come we still haven't managed to harness it? Well the reality is that converting sunlight into electricity is much harder than you think. Pick up a solar powered calculator and take a closer look at it. The dark panels are called Photo-Voltaic Cells or PV cells for short. They are usually made of silicon based plates, oppositely charged such that when sunlight (photons in particular) hit these plates, it releases electrons and electricity is produced. The brilliant science behinds this unfortunately only enables us to achieve an efficiency of 10% on average. Experimental cells have reached an incredible record high of over 42% but they are not commercially viable yet.
So most of the solar energy harnessed comes from giant mirrors and parabolic shaped mirrors which reflect and concentrate solar power to superheat water to steam (some to 800 degrees Celsius) which then turns the turbines and you know the rest. They are called Concentrated Solar Thermal Power Plants and exist in the U.S and in Spain - The largest plant capacity being around 354 megawatts (MW). Some coastal desert power plants have another advantage - The residual steam from the electricity generation could be used to boil sea water and produce freshwater in those desert regions where freshwater is desperately needed.
However with the Stirling engine re-emerging as a more efficient production method than Concentrated Solar Power, plants up to 850MW in capacity have been announced. Perhaps the greatest drawback of solar power is its storage; we cannot at present store sunlight so to speak and that means solar power plants can only be operational during the day. Thermal storage of solar power has been shown to be possible through the use of molten salts (up to 400 degrees Celsius) and it's so efficient that it can retain its heat for over a week (99% efficiency). Thus as an illustration, a large tank with a capacity of over 14000 cubic meters can power a 50 MW plant throughout the night. But again, as so often is the case when it comes to solar technology, this thermal storage technology is prohibitively expensive. Research is now gearing towards concrete thermal storage, which can be scaled to the Gigawatt (GW) scale and costs much less since concrete is relatively much cheaper.
I personally think that solar energy holds great potential, which we current are unable to harness fully. The solution for the time being, to go green no doubt comes from an optimal mix of renewable energy sources including hydro, wave, wind and geothermal.
However one thing is certain, with demand soon expected exceeding supply, the price of oil will undoubtedly rise.The rise in oil prices would be a devastating blow to the major world economies which some have just barely started to recover from the credit crunch. Meanwhile the major oil companies can rejoice for they profits are expect to soar together with higher oil prices.
Environmental scientists are ringing the alarm on climate change and the need for cleaner fuel sources. They are urging nations to reduce their emissions and environmental impact. Population expansion expected to reach 7 billion in 2011 and 10 billion in 2050 will no doubt add more pressure on demand. Never before have we faced such challenges all at once. The dream solution would be a massive, clean, renewable and cheap source of energy. Is it really a dream though? Maybe not for too long.
What is the energy of the future?
Biofuels may sound like an intermediate alternative, however their production means they could compete with food production or other alternative uses of the resources (1st generation biofuels). 2nd Generation biofuels refers to production from waste products which is limited by man-made wastes. Generally speaking when you talk of biofuels you refer to ethanol, methane, vegetable oil... etc from sources such as landfill gas, soybean, maize, sugarcane...etc. Experts point out that the most probable source of biofuel will come from algae - Algae oil makes up to 60% of the organism's mass and since it thrives in water, it is less likely to have to compete with food production.
Let's take a look at the not-so-distant future: Eventually we will have to move towards other sources of energy as our civilization keeps on evolving. (This would be when we have reached the Type I Civilization on the Kardashev Scale - experts like Michio Kaku put this sometime within the next 100 years. Presently we rank an estimated 0.7 on the scale) Perhaps the greatest source of energy available to earth is the sun. It is the Sun that heats up the earth, causes waves, winds, storms
The Earth receives 174 Petawatts (174 X 10^15 Watts) of energy from the Sun and this generates currents, climates... Compare this to the world's current energy consumption which is about 15 Terawatts (16 X 10^12Watts). To put this into perspective, Dr Gerhard Knies from the Trans-Mediterranean Renewable Energy Cooperation (TREC) estimates that within 6 hours deserts receive more energy from the sun than humankind consumes within a year.
So how come we still haven't managed to harness it? Well the reality is that converting sunlight into electricity is much harder than you think. Pick up a solar powered calculator and take a closer look at it. The dark panels are called Photo-Voltaic Cells or PV cells for short. They are usually made of silicon based plates, oppositely charged such that when sunlight (photons in particular) hit these plates, it releases electrons and electricity is produced. The brilliant science behinds this unfortunately only enables us to achieve an efficiency of 10% on average. Experimental cells have reached an incredible record high of over 42% but they are not commercially viable yet.
So most of the solar energy harnessed comes from giant mirrors and parabolic shaped mirrors which reflect and concentrate solar power to superheat water to steam (some to 800 degrees Celsius) which then turns the turbines and you know the rest. They are called Concentrated Solar Thermal Power Plants and exist in the U.S and in Spain - The largest plant capacity being around 354 megawatts (MW). Some coastal desert power plants have another advantage - The residual steam from the electricity generation could be used to boil sea water and produce freshwater in those desert regions where freshwater is desperately needed.
However with the Stirling engine re-emerging as a more efficient production method than Concentrated Solar Power, plants up to 850MW in capacity have been announced. Perhaps the greatest drawback of solar power is its storage; we cannot at present store sunlight so to speak and that means solar power plants can only be operational during the day. Thermal storage of solar power has been shown to be possible through the use of molten salts (up to 400 degrees Celsius) and it's so efficient that it can retain its heat for over a week (99% efficiency). Thus as an illustration, a large tank with a capacity of over 14000 cubic meters can power a 50 MW plant throughout the night. But again, as so often is the case when it comes to solar technology, this thermal storage technology is prohibitively expensive. Research is now gearing towards concrete thermal storage, which can be scaled to the Gigawatt (GW) scale and costs much less since concrete is relatively much cheaper.
I personally think that solar energy holds great potential, which we current are unable to harness fully. The solution for the time being, to go green no doubt comes from an optimal mix of renewable energy sources including hydro, wave, wind and geothermal.
Solar Thermal Power Plants
Solar thermal power plants are sources of electricity derived transforming solar energy into heat (as opposed to photovoltaics in which electricity is obtained directly). Given that no harmful products during the production of electricity, and have relatively good efficiency (20 - 40%), foretells the future of their lights. How is the amount of energy that falls on the surface extremely high, the construction of such plants in sunny areas (eg Sahara) could supply a large part of energy consumers, at least until we take economics into account. However, even on a small scale can become a very important factor (eg on islands).
Concentrating solar thermal power plants
Because of the need for high temperatures, almost all forms of solar thermal power plants must use some form of concentrating the sun's rays with a large space in a small area. As during the day the Sun in the sky changes, so it is constantly changing and best angle of the sun's rays falling on the mirror, so it is necessary to install systems that will constantly adjust their position. These systems are necessary in order to obtain a higher efficiency, but also the largest factor in the very high prices of solar thermal power plants.
Reductions in cost are possible storage of heat, not electricity, because such technology is now cheaper and heat production is already essential to the operation of this type of power. Time can also get electricity and when it would not otherwise be possible (for a time of reduced insulation - measure of the energy of solar radiation received or committed by a certain area at a given time).
Types
It is used today only concentrating solar thermal power (CSP - Concentrated Solar Plant). They consist of a mirror and a container of fluid to be heated, and this passes through the turbine or heat engine (eg Strilnigs engine). Given the diversity among the mirrors and the overall performance of the system can be divided into the following categories:
Parabolic Collectors
They consist of a long series of parabolic mirrors (curved around a single axis) and the collector who is above them. Their advantage is a need to move the mirror only when the sun changes position in the orthogonal direction, while in a parallel shift it is not necessary because the light still falls on the collector. Through the collector current synthetic oil, molten salt or steam under pressure which is influenced by the sun's rays heat up. These panels can be carried out in vacuum glass to prevent heat loss by conduction and convection, and achieve efficiencies of 20%.
Solar Towers
These plants have a large number of mirrors arranged around the central location of the tower. These systems achieve very high temperatures, making them more efficient in production and storage of energy. It also has the advantage that they do not require a flat area (it is possible to build on the hills), but because mirrors require the use of rotations around two axes, they raised the price.
Solar Plates
Because of the parabolic looks like a satellite dish, but of course much higher. Rays of light bouncing off the mirror, dropping a single point (the collector) which is above them. There are developing very high temperature, and for producing electricity using Stirling or steam engines. Because of the sliding mechanisms are needed frequent servicing, and the entire system requires a rotation around two axes and a set of parabolic mirrors, which are eventually reflected in the total cost of this system.
Fresnel Reflectors
Using a series of long curved slightly or completely flat mirrors, and looks reminiscent of the parabolic collector. The system is designed so that several rows of mirror finish in the same sewer that leads to financial savings, and the mirror itself to revolve around only one axis. By targeting the mirror in different collectors at different times of day it is possible to set up a dense arrangement of mirrors, which produces more energy efficiency in spite of less than 20%. The entire project is as yet based on prototypes that were built in Belgium (SolarMundo) and Australia (CLFR).
Solar Power Lifting
Do not use mirrors, but a large glazed surface (just above), under which heats the air, at which point the tower. Because of the slope and the glass surface, the air goes to the tower where rotating turbine. The system requires very large dimensions and the factor of conversion of solar energy into heat is not particularly good, but this was offset by low investment costs. Medium-sized prototype was built in Spain in 1982 where they were collecting data next 7 years, until the intentional destruction of the tower due to problems with turbulence.
Thermal Energy Storage
The efficiency of these plants is increased by installing energy storage, which produces and reliability. These systems are based on thermal energy storage material in high energy density. Currently, such material is used as molten salt, which is an integral element of sodium - metal high energy density. Also today, using steam under high pressure (50 bar at 285 ° C), but the retention period is only one hour. The power plant in Cloncurry (Australia) will use purified graphite, when it will be built.
Concentrating solar thermal power plants
Because of the need for high temperatures, almost all forms of solar thermal power plants must use some form of concentrating the sun's rays with a large space in a small area. As during the day the Sun in the sky changes, so it is constantly changing and best angle of the sun's rays falling on the mirror, so it is necessary to install systems that will constantly adjust their position. These systems are necessary in order to obtain a higher efficiency, but also the largest factor in the very high prices of solar thermal power plants.
Reductions in cost are possible storage of heat, not electricity, because such technology is now cheaper and heat production is already essential to the operation of this type of power. Time can also get electricity and when it would not otherwise be possible (for a time of reduced insulation - measure of the energy of solar radiation received or committed by a certain area at a given time).
Types
It is used today only concentrating solar thermal power (CSP - Concentrated Solar Plant). They consist of a mirror and a container of fluid to be heated, and this passes through the turbine or heat engine (eg Strilnigs engine). Given the diversity among the mirrors and the overall performance of the system can be divided into the following categories:
Parabolic Collectors
They consist of a long series of parabolic mirrors (curved around a single axis) and the collector who is above them. Their advantage is a need to move the mirror only when the sun changes position in the orthogonal direction, while in a parallel shift it is not necessary because the light still falls on the collector. Through the collector current synthetic oil, molten salt or steam under pressure which is influenced by the sun's rays heat up. These panels can be carried out in vacuum glass to prevent heat loss by conduction and convection, and achieve efficiencies of 20%.
Solar Towers
These plants have a large number of mirrors arranged around the central location of the tower. These systems achieve very high temperatures, making them more efficient in production and storage of energy. It also has the advantage that they do not require a flat area (it is possible to build on the hills), but because mirrors require the use of rotations around two axes, they raised the price.
Solar Plates
Because of the parabolic looks like a satellite dish, but of course much higher. Rays of light bouncing off the mirror, dropping a single point (the collector) which is above them. There are developing very high temperature, and for producing electricity using Stirling or steam engines. Because of the sliding mechanisms are needed frequent servicing, and the entire system requires a rotation around two axes and a set of parabolic mirrors, which are eventually reflected in the total cost of this system.
Fresnel Reflectors
Using a series of long curved slightly or completely flat mirrors, and looks reminiscent of the parabolic collector. The system is designed so that several rows of mirror finish in the same sewer that leads to financial savings, and the mirror itself to revolve around only one axis. By targeting the mirror in different collectors at different times of day it is possible to set up a dense arrangement of mirrors, which produces more energy efficiency in spite of less than 20%. The entire project is as yet based on prototypes that were built in Belgium (SolarMundo) and Australia (CLFR).
Solar Power Lifting
Do not use mirrors, but a large glazed surface (just above), under which heats the air, at which point the tower. Because of the slope and the glass surface, the air goes to the tower where rotating turbine. The system requires very large dimensions and the factor of conversion of solar energy into heat is not particularly good, but this was offset by low investment costs. Medium-sized prototype was built in Spain in 1982 where they were collecting data next 7 years, until the intentional destruction of the tower due to problems with turbulence.
Thermal Energy Storage
The efficiency of these plants is increased by installing energy storage, which produces and reliability. These systems are based on thermal energy storage material in high energy density. Currently, such material is used as molten salt, which is an integral element of sodium - metal high energy density. Also today, using steam under high pressure (50 bar at 285 ° C), but the retention period is only one hour. The power plant in Cloncurry (Australia) will use purified graphite, when it will be built.
Solar Power Roof Tile
What is meant by a solar power roof tile?
The rays of sun generate radiant energy. Using different types of machines, this radiant energy can be captured, stored and treated to form other types of usable energy, as our needs might be. Solar power refers to the procedure of generating mechanical power, electricity or chemical power from solar energy resources. Solar chimney, solar heater, photovoltaic (PV) cells and solar roof tiles are some of the devices that can treat and harness solar energy. Among these devices, solar power roof tile has various advantages, and hence is generally preferred over other forms of commonly seen roof tiles. Roof tiles that are designed so that they can tap and process solar energy to produce electrical power or heat up water are called solar roof tiles. An industrial designer from Australia is credited with the invention of these solar roof tiles.
Getting to know the functionality of solar power roof tile
The modern day city is facing a serious problem - an acute power shortage. Solar power roof tile comprises of such techniques can solve this problem. Polycarbonate chassis is used to make up the solar power roof tiles, and it also contains a vessel of water and quite a number of photovoltaic cells (i.e. solar power cells). These solar cells are able to capture around 72%-80% of the total available sunlight. This is then transformed into heat energy, which in turn, warms up the water in the vessel. The electric wires of the building as well as the hot water system need to be connected to these tiles. The domestic requirements of electricity can be easily met by harnessing the sunlight that remains (around 20% of the total).
A handy boost to power savings is also achieved, since the roof tiles generate electricity that are well in excess of what is actually required in a home. Not much power is required from non-solar origins, since the excess electric power that is generated during the day can be easily utilized at night. Adding to the convenience is the significant backup they provide on days when the sky remains covered with clouds. Let us now look at how the system works. An inverter is kept present, to which the photovoltaic cells are connected. This setup is then attached to the main power box of the house.
An electricity grid is also used, and the power box is kept linked to this grid. Now, this electrical grid can store all available surplus electricity. This excess electrical power can even be sold to the grid and some money can be earned. This helps the user gradually get back part of their investment on the solar roof tiles. After some time, the effective cost for producing electricity can even become zero too! Hence, installing the tiles makes sense, since they not only help a home generate its own electricity, but also prescribes a way to earn by selling off excess amounts of power.
All forms of different roof tiles can be easily matched to the solar power roof tiles, such are the designs of the latter. An estimated amount of 1.5 kilowatts of electrical power can be obtained if 200 solar power roof tiles are used. This electricity is enough for the needs of a home that has three to four bedrooms. In the current world, these tiles are in great demand, both for commercial as well as residential purposes. The commercial tiles can be installed easily and quickly, by following a simple procedure. They do not enter the building structure as such, and also have high wind resistance properties. Research show that these solar roofs can resist winds blowing at up to 120 miles per hour too. These solar power roof tiles can also be fitted in rather short spaces that might be available. Thus, wastage of excess power can be stopped, and the required amount of electricity can be produced by having the roof tiles at all places of the house that gets exposure. Other aspects of the solar tiles, like their cost figures, their efficiency and other likely side effects need to be paid due attention as well.
Gauging the utility of solar power roof tile
The solar power roof tiles have such structures that they can be easily matched with most types of different concrete tiles. Hence, the resultant streamlined appearance of the roof enhances the overall fashion and décor of any building. Solar roof tiles generally need to be installed only once during one's lifespan. After installation is complete, there are absolutely no operating costs of these solar tiles, and they are expected to last around a period of thirty years. Many of the companies also offer production warranties for a 25 year period in addition.
Adding significantly to the process of installation of the solar roof tiles is the fact that, these tiles do not have other portable components that have to be moved as well. Solar power roof tile is extremely Eco-friendly as well, since they do not pollute the atmosphere in any way, and do not emit any harmful greenhouse gas. Once solar roof tiles are in place, users can save extra amounts of power that is generated, produce electricity using a free and renewable source of energy, and make the appearance of their houses visually pleasing as well. Economic benefits from these solar power tiles are also significant.
You should be installing solar power roof tile if you wish to cut down on your power bills. Home solar systems are also ideal for generating electricity in an environment-friendly way. What you should do first is to get a guide that would help you know the basic stages of installing the system, and the places that are best suited for it. Relevant security measures, as well as how the wiring should be done is also discussed in such a guide. You can also learn from where to get the components of the system at rather low prices, and the batteries totally free. Once such a guide has been consulted, you are ready to set up a solar power system at your home.
The rays of sun generate radiant energy. Using different types of machines, this radiant energy can be captured, stored and treated to form other types of usable energy, as our needs might be. Solar power refers to the procedure of generating mechanical power, electricity or chemical power from solar energy resources. Solar chimney, solar heater, photovoltaic (PV) cells and solar roof tiles are some of the devices that can treat and harness solar energy. Among these devices, solar power roof tile has various advantages, and hence is generally preferred over other forms of commonly seen roof tiles. Roof tiles that are designed so that they can tap and process solar energy to produce electrical power or heat up water are called solar roof tiles. An industrial designer from Australia is credited with the invention of these solar roof tiles.
Getting to know the functionality of solar power roof tile
The modern day city is facing a serious problem - an acute power shortage. Solar power roof tile comprises of such techniques can solve this problem. Polycarbonate chassis is used to make up the solar power roof tiles, and it also contains a vessel of water and quite a number of photovoltaic cells (i.e. solar power cells). These solar cells are able to capture around 72%-80% of the total available sunlight. This is then transformed into heat energy, which in turn, warms up the water in the vessel. The electric wires of the building as well as the hot water system need to be connected to these tiles. The domestic requirements of electricity can be easily met by harnessing the sunlight that remains (around 20% of the total).
A handy boost to power savings is also achieved, since the roof tiles generate electricity that are well in excess of what is actually required in a home. Not much power is required from non-solar origins, since the excess electric power that is generated during the day can be easily utilized at night. Adding to the convenience is the significant backup they provide on days when the sky remains covered with clouds. Let us now look at how the system works. An inverter is kept present, to which the photovoltaic cells are connected. This setup is then attached to the main power box of the house.
An electricity grid is also used, and the power box is kept linked to this grid. Now, this electrical grid can store all available surplus electricity. This excess electrical power can even be sold to the grid and some money can be earned. This helps the user gradually get back part of their investment on the solar roof tiles. After some time, the effective cost for producing electricity can even become zero too! Hence, installing the tiles makes sense, since they not only help a home generate its own electricity, but also prescribes a way to earn by selling off excess amounts of power.
All forms of different roof tiles can be easily matched to the solar power roof tiles, such are the designs of the latter. An estimated amount of 1.5 kilowatts of electrical power can be obtained if 200 solar power roof tiles are used. This electricity is enough for the needs of a home that has three to four bedrooms. In the current world, these tiles are in great demand, both for commercial as well as residential purposes. The commercial tiles can be installed easily and quickly, by following a simple procedure. They do not enter the building structure as such, and also have high wind resistance properties. Research show that these solar roofs can resist winds blowing at up to 120 miles per hour too. These solar power roof tiles can also be fitted in rather short spaces that might be available. Thus, wastage of excess power can be stopped, and the required amount of electricity can be produced by having the roof tiles at all places of the house that gets exposure. Other aspects of the solar tiles, like their cost figures, their efficiency and other likely side effects need to be paid due attention as well.
Gauging the utility of solar power roof tile
The solar power roof tiles have such structures that they can be easily matched with most types of different concrete tiles. Hence, the resultant streamlined appearance of the roof enhances the overall fashion and décor of any building. Solar roof tiles generally need to be installed only once during one's lifespan. After installation is complete, there are absolutely no operating costs of these solar tiles, and they are expected to last around a period of thirty years. Many of the companies also offer production warranties for a 25 year period in addition.
Adding significantly to the process of installation of the solar roof tiles is the fact that, these tiles do not have other portable components that have to be moved as well. Solar power roof tile is extremely Eco-friendly as well, since they do not pollute the atmosphere in any way, and do not emit any harmful greenhouse gas. Once solar roof tiles are in place, users can save extra amounts of power that is generated, produce electricity using a free and renewable source of energy, and make the appearance of their houses visually pleasing as well. Economic benefits from these solar power tiles are also significant.
You should be installing solar power roof tile if you wish to cut down on your power bills. Home solar systems are also ideal for generating electricity in an environment-friendly way. What you should do first is to get a guide that would help you know the basic stages of installing the system, and the places that are best suited for it. Relevant security measures, as well as how the wiring should be done is also discussed in such a guide. You can also learn from where to get the components of the system at rather low prices, and the batteries totally free. Once such a guide has been consulted, you are ready to set up a solar power system at your home.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Solar Power
Solar power is among the very best environmental choices within the energy sector that is accessible to everyone. This source of energy will be in existence for as long as the earth exists. However, you must determine if it's not fiscally unwise to spend money on this alternative power source resource. These suggestions can help you in your journey to utilizing solar power.
Routine care helps to ensure that the solar-powered add-ons work correctly. The panel surfaces have to be cleaned, and all equipment needs to be inspected. You save more if you are doing this by yourself, although you may want an expert to do it.
You are in need of a trusted way of keeping energy that is generated from your solar power program. Purchase a battery that'll allow you to promote the energy back to the power system, or to power your house during the evenings.
Think over your financial plan carefully prior to starting to consider purchasing solar panels. According to where you are, a solar power setup might cost a great deal, to be worth the energy savings that are available, do your calculations prior to spending any money. Without attentive evaluation of the amounts, you will be setting up your-self for a jolt in the future that is truly awful.
Check the inverter regularly, in the days and weeks following your solar panel system installation. Find a green-light (or confirmation). When it is blinking or off, you need to phone your solar power business. Many owners are not proficient enough to identify the issue. A call from the owners ought to be free in the event that you bought a guarantee using this firm.
Be sure to research and find out your power use habits. You should be aware of this so that you can select the best system to produce energy within your lifetime, just how much power you have. This is necessary to find the correct size solar power system. Look at your electricity bills and put money into an energy screen to keep an eye on just how much electricity you employ.
Remaining connected to the primary power grid is an alternative when you change to solar energy. You are able to be separate in the power companies locally. You'll not have a statement rolling in demand or each month to schedule a meeting to set up energy when you change houses.
Panels should be put where the sun is most prominent, in Australia this is facing north. Make sure you maintain your trees trimmed back so they will not interfere with your solar power system.
In terms of solar power panels if you are worried, dimension is not everything. It's important to pay attention to the wattage along with its guarantee which is usually provided by the equipment's manufacturer. Contemplate all these variables before choosing the program or a cell.
In case you are thinking about if solar power is a good alternative for you personally, why don't you attempt renting a program first. Rental is more cost-effective and energy prices will be saved by you faster, without any up front costs.
Do not pick solar panels by cost alone. Solar power systems come in a variety of measurements and wattage, and matters like workmanship and guarantees also has to be contemplated. Therefore, you do need to do your investigation in order to buy high quality solar panels. Do not be reluctant if it means finding an excellent merchandise, to save money on your solar panels.
Consider use and your requirements to allow you to discover how your lifetime can be match by solar energy. As an example, keep in mind that most solar systems are just in a position to partly control a heat. Having said that, solar may power your hot-water tank. Becoming comfortable with how they're distinct can direct you to creating the most effective choice for the house.
You start more choices when you've got available space in your home or acreage. A flexible mount using a sunlight monitoring system that is powered allows your solar panels to use more electricity than those forever placed on a roof. It's not going to ruin the lawn.
You will have saved lots of cash by using solar power. The ROI is not ordinary, because you can regain the price of purchase pretty rapid. In the event you create more power than you require, you may find a way to sell it for cash or to your own power supplier.
There is not any question that solar power is a significant growth market. But there are lots of matters you need to contemplate. Take advantage of this advice to make the choice that is most effective. You are going to have solar power flowing throughout your property before you are aware of it.
Routine care helps to ensure that the solar-powered add-ons work correctly. The panel surfaces have to be cleaned, and all equipment needs to be inspected. You save more if you are doing this by yourself, although you may want an expert to do it.
You are in need of a trusted way of keeping energy that is generated from your solar power program. Purchase a battery that'll allow you to promote the energy back to the power system, or to power your house during the evenings.
Think over your financial plan carefully prior to starting to consider purchasing solar panels. According to where you are, a solar power setup might cost a great deal, to be worth the energy savings that are available, do your calculations prior to spending any money. Without attentive evaluation of the amounts, you will be setting up your-self for a jolt in the future that is truly awful.
Check the inverter regularly, in the days and weeks following your solar panel system installation. Find a green-light (or confirmation). When it is blinking or off, you need to phone your solar power business. Many owners are not proficient enough to identify the issue. A call from the owners ought to be free in the event that you bought a guarantee using this firm.
Be sure to research and find out your power use habits. You should be aware of this so that you can select the best system to produce energy within your lifetime, just how much power you have. This is necessary to find the correct size solar power system. Look at your electricity bills and put money into an energy screen to keep an eye on just how much electricity you employ.
Remaining connected to the primary power grid is an alternative when you change to solar energy. You are able to be separate in the power companies locally. You'll not have a statement rolling in demand or each month to schedule a meeting to set up energy when you change houses.
Panels should be put where the sun is most prominent, in Australia this is facing north. Make sure you maintain your trees trimmed back so they will not interfere with your solar power system.
In terms of solar power panels if you are worried, dimension is not everything. It's important to pay attention to the wattage along with its guarantee which is usually provided by the equipment's manufacturer. Contemplate all these variables before choosing the program or a cell.
In case you are thinking about if solar power is a good alternative for you personally, why don't you attempt renting a program first. Rental is more cost-effective and energy prices will be saved by you faster, without any up front costs.
Do not pick solar panels by cost alone. Solar power systems come in a variety of measurements and wattage, and matters like workmanship and guarantees also has to be contemplated. Therefore, you do need to do your investigation in order to buy high quality solar panels. Do not be reluctant if it means finding an excellent merchandise, to save money on your solar panels.
Consider use and your requirements to allow you to discover how your lifetime can be match by solar energy. As an example, keep in mind that most solar systems are just in a position to partly control a heat. Having said that, solar may power your hot-water tank. Becoming comfortable with how they're distinct can direct you to creating the most effective choice for the house.
You start more choices when you've got available space in your home or acreage. A flexible mount using a sunlight monitoring system that is powered allows your solar panels to use more electricity than those forever placed on a roof. It's not going to ruin the lawn.
You will have saved lots of cash by using solar power. The ROI is not ordinary, because you can regain the price of purchase pretty rapid. In the event you create more power than you require, you may find a way to sell it for cash or to your own power supplier.
There is not any question that solar power is a significant growth market. But there are lots of matters you need to contemplate. Take advantage of this advice to make the choice that is most effective. You are going to have solar power flowing throughout your property before you are aware of it.
Solar Power Toys and Science Kits
Solar power is undoubtedly going to be one of the great sources of power in the earth's future. The sun can be used to power virtually everything, from cars to houses to flashlights. It is the cleanest form of energy imaginable and cannot be used up. Solar technology gets better every year and now there are a variety of toys that run on solar energy. Besides providing entertainment, these toys are useful tools for teaching children about the potential of solar energy and the many uses for which it can be harnessed.
One of the crazier solar powered toys is the T3 Transforming Solar Robot. This awesome transforming robot requires no batteries and uses only the power of the sun. It comes from OWI who are known for producing high quality solar power toys. The robot has three modes, and can transform into both a tank and a scorpion. It comes with easy to follow instructions so that kids can build the robot themselves using simple construction skills. The solar cell will last for over two years of regular use and the kit contains 70 pieces. The T3 Transforming Solar Robot is an award-winning toy, picking up a MomLogic Award and a Toy Fair Hottest Toys Award in 2010.
One of the ultimate kits for teaching kids about solar power comes from Thames and Kosmos, makers of various high quality educational toys.
The Physics Solar Workshop Science Kit teaches about physics as well as solar energy, and can be used to build 12 different models that harness the power of the sun in unique and useful ways. The kit contains 320 pieces and includes 30 experiments alongside the model. The full color 64-page instruction booklet provides easy directions that are easy for kids to understand. Along with gaining knowledge about solar power, kids using the Physics Solar Workshop Science Kit will also learn about motors and basic machine operation. Perhaps the best part about this kit is that it can be combines with pieces from other Thames and Kosmos kits to build even more exciting and intricate models.
One of the big uses of solar power currently is in hybrid vehicles that can run on both solar and electric power. The Amphibious Solar Vehicle can run on both solar power and batteries, so it can still be played with at night or in overcast conditions. The Amphibious Solar Vehicle comes in a kit and must be assembled. During assembly, kids will learn about the advantages of solar energy, different types of solar power and how solar batteries work. When the vehicle is complete it can be used both on land and at sea. It has been specially designed to make it resistant to capsizing and this vehicle is one of the most exciting ways to learn or teach about solar power.
Another great product from OWI that also teaches about the advantages of hybrid systems is the Triple Action Solar Car Kit. This kit comes with an aerodynamic shell design that is powered by a 1.4v solar cell. The transparent plastic body is paintable, or can be left transparent to display the car's inner workings. It can operate on solar or battery power, is fully steerable and has an adjustable solar panel that can be fine tuned for better performance. The Triple Action Solar Car Kit even features a multi-speed transmission. This is one of the most exciting solar projects from is an ideal way to get kids interested in solar energy and alternative fuels.
One of the crazier solar powered toys is the T3 Transforming Solar Robot. This awesome transforming robot requires no batteries and uses only the power of the sun. It comes from OWI who are known for producing high quality solar power toys. The robot has three modes, and can transform into both a tank and a scorpion. It comes with easy to follow instructions so that kids can build the robot themselves using simple construction skills. The solar cell will last for over two years of regular use and the kit contains 70 pieces. The T3 Transforming Solar Robot is an award-winning toy, picking up a MomLogic Award and a Toy Fair Hottest Toys Award in 2010.
One of the ultimate kits for teaching kids about solar power comes from Thames and Kosmos, makers of various high quality educational toys.
The Physics Solar Workshop Science Kit teaches about physics as well as solar energy, and can be used to build 12 different models that harness the power of the sun in unique and useful ways. The kit contains 320 pieces and includes 30 experiments alongside the model. The full color 64-page instruction booklet provides easy directions that are easy for kids to understand. Along with gaining knowledge about solar power, kids using the Physics Solar Workshop Science Kit will also learn about motors and basic machine operation. Perhaps the best part about this kit is that it can be combines with pieces from other Thames and Kosmos kits to build even more exciting and intricate models.
One of the big uses of solar power currently is in hybrid vehicles that can run on both solar and electric power. The Amphibious Solar Vehicle can run on both solar power and batteries, so it can still be played with at night or in overcast conditions. The Amphibious Solar Vehicle comes in a kit and must be assembled. During assembly, kids will learn about the advantages of solar energy, different types of solar power and how solar batteries work. When the vehicle is complete it can be used both on land and at sea. It has been specially designed to make it resistant to capsizing and this vehicle is one of the most exciting ways to learn or teach about solar power.
Another great product from OWI that also teaches about the advantages of hybrid systems is the Triple Action Solar Car Kit. This kit comes with an aerodynamic shell design that is powered by a 1.4v solar cell. The transparent plastic body is paintable, or can be left transparent to display the car's inner workings. It can operate on solar or battery power, is fully steerable and has an adjustable solar panel that can be fine tuned for better performance. The Triple Action Solar Car Kit even features a multi-speed transmission. This is one of the most exciting solar projects from is an ideal way to get kids interested in solar energy and alternative fuels.