Blog - Solar Is New Media

Home

Blog

NEW

The 10 Best Solar Companies Of 2024

We've ranked our top picks for solar installation companies based on our detailed

NEW

No Joke: This ls How Much SolarPanels Actually Cost

We created a solar panel cost calculator that estimates your system costs and provides

NEW

Are Solar Panels As Green As We Think They Are?

When it comes to power generation, solar power is among the cleanest. It can be produced on-site and only requires sunlight. No water or air pollution is generated in the process. It is also a big money-saver for people who are tired of paying utility bills. Most solar companies emphasize the environmental benefits of switching to solar.That’s great news, however, it is important to dig deeper to determine if this energy source is really as eco-friendly as most believe it to be. They aren’t wrong when it comes to usage. Solar panels are clean. They don’t generate greenhouse gases and help keep local communities free of pollutants. But what about the manufacturing process? Fabrication of solar panels involves the use of caustic chemicals like hydrofluoric acid and sodium hydroxide. Water and electricity are also consumed, which can mean greenhouse gasses and pollution. The short answer is that solar panels do not come without waste. These issues work against the environmental benefits of using the panels.<h2>How Solar Panels Hurt the Environment</h2>Many people are in the dark about how solar panels can hurt the environment. This is important information that every potential buyer should be aware of when deciding to install a new system. <ul><li>Resource-Intensive Manufacturing Processes</li></ul>Solar panel fabrication is a resource-intensive process. It uses substantial quantities of water as well as fossil fuels and industrial minerals. Right now, coal is the primary energy source used to produce photovoltaic panels. Coal is directly connected with carbon emissions and is one of the energy sources most people try to avoid when going green.Strictly regulated sodium hydroxides and hydrofluoric acid are also required, which creates a risk of silicosis in people who come in contact with the particles. Silicosis is a lung disease that is caused by breathing in silica.<ul><li>Rare Mineral Mining That Can’t Keep Up</li></ul>Most of the technology we use today requires rare minerals, and solar panels are no different. They use over 19 rare minerals, which are finite resources. Mining operations exist around the globe to supply the solar industry, with the demand constantly increasing.Research indicates that there will not be enough indium, which is used to make photovoltaic panels, to keep up with the expansion of the green energy industry. Mining also leads to environmental damage like contamination of water sources, sinkholes, and loss of biodiversity.<ul><li>Loss of Habitat for Solar Farms</li></ul>Building new infrastructure for solar power requires space, which often means the destruction of habitats. Solar farms have to be put somewhere. While smaller systems can sit on top of a home or building, bigger farms usually have to have their own area. There were recent concerns in response to a proposal to cut down acres of indigenous Ohia trees to make way for a solar farm in Ka’u, Hawaii.The decision was made to buy land at a higher elevation that had more vegetation than locations at lower elevations. A barbed wire fence was also installed around the structure, which was a hazard for local wildlife.<ul><li>Solar Panel Disposal</li></ul>Solar panels last for decades, but they still have a lifespan. Eventually, they will need to be replaced. Disposal creates a new issue that will only get worse in the future without a viable solution.As more communities adopt solar power, more panels are being installed. Eventually, those panels will need to go somewhere when they come to the end of their life. If we discard them as we tend to do, we’ll end up with an influx of bulk sheets of electronic waste.Unfortunately, there are still drawbacks to using solar power. The good news is that as the industry grows, more brilliant people are working on solutions to help lessen the impact of solar panel manufacturing and disposal.<h2>What is Being Done About the Solar Panel Problem?</h2>As the technology advances, so do the solutions we are finding to the problems that come with it. Many of the issues we now face in the manufacturing and disposal part of the industry could be solved soon.<ul><li>Improving the Solar Panel Manufacturing Process</li></ul>An international team of scientists has found a new process that uses Earth-abundant materials that could replace silicon-based solar panels. Their work was published in the journal Chem.Researchers from Newcastle University are joined by colleagues from the University of Naples Federico II, Italy and Uppsala University in Sweden to find a better way to make solar panels. Copper systems can power photovoltaic devices with minimal voltage loss.“The majority of progress toward the goal of using low-cost and abundant materials has come from improving light-absorbing materials. Charge transfer issues remain a barrier to widespread adoption of this solar technology, and this is the challenge that our research addresses.” Said study co-lead Dr. Marina Freitag.Fellow co-lead Professor Ana Belén Munoz-Garcia said that “This work proves that fundamental research combining experiments and theory can provide solid scientific grounds to optimize materials and interfaces for renewable energy technologies with real impact on the society.”<ul><li>Finding New Places to Build Solar Farms</li></ul>Others are getting creative with where solar farms can be constructed. Some communities have built them over bodies of water. The presence of the panels helps cool down lakes and reservoirs that are impacted by climate change. These freshwater bodies of water make up just 1% of the planet’s surface but contain nearly 6% of its biodiversity. They also supply crop irrigation and drinking water to billions of people. As climate change causes the planet to heat up, lakes around the world are seeing an average surface temperature increase of .34 degrees C. (32.6 degrees F) per decade since 1985. These conditions lower water levels, prevent water mixing in deeper lakes, and encourage toxic algae blooms.Studies conducted in California found that proactive electricity planning for conservation can also reduce the impact of constructing solar farms. Avoiding conservation areas is the best way to protect them.Solar experts urge big box stores to install solar panels on their rooftops. These buildings tend to have a lot of square footage to work with and could easily generate most of their needed power or that of the local community. For example, the average Walmart store has approximately 180,000 square feet of roof space, or around the same size as three football fields. Installing solar panels on the roof could generate enough electricity to power

NEW

Which Type Of Panel Works Best For Your Home?

When you're reading this article, it means you're probably interested in sustainable energy now! Electricity bills are getting even more expensive recently, and people are looking for a way out. And utilizing solar energy is one way to do that.However, choosing the right solar panel for your home can be a difficult choice. Especially when there are multiple different kinds available on the market. Let’s take a look at some things that will help simplify your choices:How Much Energy Are You Using?The first aspect to figure out is the amount of electricity your house needs. Call up your electricity provider and or take a look at your latest bill. It will have information regarding this. With this information, perhaps you will be able to know how many fast solar panels you need and which type of panels you want to follow. <h2>Where Are You Going To Install Them?</h2>Another aspect to think about to select the best panels is where you are going to put them up. If you have a lot of open space to offer with clear sunlight, then you don’t have to go for expensive options. Oftentimes, the more expensive the panel is, the higher its efficiency. But, you can recover that by installing more panels. Choose Higher Quality Solar PanelsEverybody loves a warranty. When you are searching for panels, you should pick one that has a long warranty to offer. Most companies offer around 25 years or even more.Consult A ProfessionalThe last and most crucial step is that you need to get a professional to help you make the best solar plan. The consultant will help you pick out the best solar panels depending on what your home has to offer. Sometimes, you can also get the best deals through them.

NEW

The Best Picks If You’re Going Solar

There are several kinds of solar panels available. Their prices vary and the panels differ from each other in terms of type and wattage. So when you choose to use a sustainable energy source like solar power, you definitely want to find the one that offers the best value for your money. This article lists four of the better solar panel brands to choose from, and see if it can help you when deciding which one to buy! SunPower SolarAlthough expensive, SunPower has established itself to be a well-reputed supplier of solar panels. As a marker of their confidence, their products come with a great warranty that extends to all components of the solar panel system. With their high performance, SunPower solar panels are suitable even for shaded and narrow areas that may not get a lot of sunlight exposure. <h2>Panasonic</h2>Just like Panasonic reigns supreme in all things electronic, their expertise extends to solar panels as well. Offering smaller panels with a twenty-five year warranty, Panasonic stands as a reliable option for any homeowner looking to buy solar panels. Due to their smaller size, these panels are particularly suitable for those who have smaller roofs. Palmetto SolarPalmetto is another great option for premium solar panels. Their package comes with ten to twenty-five year warranties on all parts of the system including batteries and converters. What distinguishes Palmetto from other solar panel companies is the after-installation support they offer. If you run into any problem with your solar system, Palmetto’s customer services include consistent monitoring through an app alongside proactive communication. They also offer purchasing plans to buy panels such as leases etc. Jinko SolarIn terms of cost, Jinko Solar is the cheapest option for you. Their panel’s average cost is significantly lower than others in the marketplace and this list. However, that doesn’t mean the quality differs all that much! One thing users should note is that the panels are larger in size which makes them unsuitable for small spaces.

NEW

The Latest Solar Energy Developments

Over the last couple of years, we have seen great movements within the solar industry. With climate change becoming a bigger problem each passing day, things need to change. And the solar industry is focusing on easing that change for people.Because countries have started focusing more on sustainable energy sources, we have seen incredible innovations in recent years. From panels that can track the sun, to solar windows that add to your aesthetics and generate power; let’s look at some of these inventions: Solar Panels That Can Track The SunYou heard that right! In 2016, the University of New South Wales presented solar panels that would automatically follow the movement of the sun. These panels were created from sets of smaller solar cells which helped capture almost 40% more sunlight than before! These bowl-shaped panels can generate up to 50% more power on sunny days compared to other solar panels. <h2>Panels That Work At Night</h2>Gone are the days when people would worry about what to do when night comes. In May 2016, the Enel Green Power North America showcased solar panels that would continue working even at night. These panels would work a lot like phone power banks. They will generate and hold electricity in a battery system. And this would only power up after the sun sets. Solar Panel WindowsSolar windows were created by Carvey Ehren Maigue, and these work just like how you’d expect. Protecting your aesthetics and still doing the environment a favour, these panels are a brilliant alternative to your traditional glass windows. They are transparent and can be installed within your windows. These panels work by absorbing specific wavelengths of light, instead of visible light. This is done by incorporating material that is light-selective which also increases the amount of sunlight absorbed.

NEW

Unraveling the Mysteries of Solar Energy for a Brighter Future

In the dawn of a sustainable revolution, solar energy rises as a guiding light. It represents an infinite, pristine source of energy, pointing towards a future liberated from the chains of fossil fuels. So what is solar energy and why is it such a powerful force and resource? This article sets out to demystify the wonders of solar energy, navigating through its mechanisms, evolution, advantages, and future promises. So, without further ado, let’s get into it! The Science Behind Solar EnergyThe Sun, our most radiant and generous heater, pushes forth solar energy. At the crux of it all lies this - sunlight morphs into electricity. This is what we call the photovoltaic effect. Here's how it begins: Solar cell meets light particles or photons, and semi-conducting silicon absorbs them subtly. The energy of the absorbed photons is transferred to electrons in the atoms of the silicon, knocking them loose. Freedom enables these electrons to cruise around, producing an electric current, which we store for later use. The focus has always been on efficiency when it comes to solar energy. In today's age, you're looking at a 15-20% conversion rate from sunlight to electricity with modern-day solar panels for home. Some high-efficiency units even hit 22%.  The future whispers promisingly with multi-junction and thin-film solar cells being worked on – their efficiencies might break records! Roadblocks may be aplenty, but the science powering ahead with solar energy shines unabated in our sustainability quest. The Evolution of Solar EnergySolar energy boasts a fascinating journey, stretching back to 7th-century B.C., when humans harnessed sunlight to ignite fires using magnifying glasses. After that, we encounter seminal turns, spawning from the inception of solar panels to enhancements in photovoltaic technology. 1954 was a landmark year, thanks to Bell Labs scientists. They gave life to what we know today as the modern solar-electric cell, paving the way for diverse applications of solar panels. Fast forward five years, and these panels have undergone a revolution—smaller yet more productive and power-packed. This transformation fuels the widespread embrace of solar energy. Technological prowess and government policies have triggered a sharp decline in solar energy costs. Now, in the U.S., solar power claims a substantial share of new generating capacity! Traveling from primitive sparks towards cutting-edge improvements, the continuity of change is clear for one player - Solar Energy – positioning itself as a pivotal force in the future of sustainable energy. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">The Benefits of Solar Energy</h2>Solar energy has a very great energy and potential to be very much helped by it, whether in the economy, living environment or social environment. Here's its key advantages: 1. Renewable and Sustainable - Solar energy stands as a perpetual source; inexhaustible and deployable anywhere. It not only cuts down carbon emissions but also serves as an eco-friendly energy alternative. 2. Cost Savings and Increased Home Value - Delve into long-term savings on electric bills with solar energy, while the installation of solar panels concurrently elevates the value of residential properties. 3. Job Creation - The solar energy industry emerges as a catalyst for employment, fostering opportunities for developers, builders, installers, and various professionals. This not only enriches local economies but also fuels job growth. 4. Energy Independence - Harnessing solar power empowers individuals and communities to diminish their dependence on conventional energy sources, paving the way for enhanced energy independence. 5. Versatility and Universal Access - Solar energy is a versatile solution accessible in diverse climates and geographical locations. Its universal applicability makes it a powerful choice for varied energy needs. 6. Reduced Water Consumption - In contrast to traditional power plants reliant on steam turbines, solar energy systems are frugal with water consumption – aligning with environmentally conscious choices. <h2 class="ql-align-justify">The Future of Solar Energy</h2>Solar energy's future? It's brimming with exciting prospects and untapped potential. Numerous studies lay down the path for this industry, illuminating us with worthwhile insights: <h3 class="ql-align-justify">1. Solar-Powered Dominance</h3>From now till 2050, technologies like photovoltaics and solar thermal are set to dominate solar-powered generation. The sun's energy will be harnessed in groundbreaking ways. <h3>2.Solar Energy in Various Sectors</h3>A synergistic role awaits solar energy across diverse sectors — from industry to transportation. By 2050, it could be fueling around 14% of transportation end uses. A transformative force indeed. <h3>3.Technological Advancements</h3>Expect technological leaps like amplified electrification of buildings, vehicles; newly minted clean fuels; even potential interactions between solar power and other energies like wind, storage to re-define its future trajectory. <h3 class="ql-align-justify">3.Global Growth and Potential</h3>The global solar market carries a potent forecast - stellar growth powered by qualities such as "clean" & "sustainable ."As affordability goes up while technological advances continue at a fast clip, it holds the key to addressing climate change and surging energy demands. <h3 class="ql-align-justify">4.Policy Recommendations</h3>Policymakers hold the reins to a solar revolution. The foundation for a massive scale-up of solar generation must be laid. Solar's potential to outshine electricity demand, coupled with falling costs, makes its widespread expansion vital for any long-term energy strategy. The sun is calling, and we must answer. Treading on the path of a green future, solar energy surfaces as a powerful companion. Dig into its scientific roots, marvel at its evolution, cheer to its advantages and gaze towards what it promises ahead - Solar power is an unmissable plea for attention. It's the clean energy revolution looms on the horizon! Challenges wait menacingly down the road, but within them lie immense rewards! As we journey forward, tapping into the sun's boundless power, we not only cast light upon our path but also lay the foundation for a future that gleams with sustainability and brilliance. The sun? It's no less than a welcoming celestial body in this immense cosmos ready to sweep us away toward transformation. The path to a future lit by solar power starts with just one small step. Keen to delve deeper into the world of solar energy and find the best solar panel company? Perhaps pondering about solar solutions for your home or office? Visit <a href="https://solarisnewmedia.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">Solaris New Media</a>. Together, let's embark on this exciting journey where the sun shines like a morning star in an endless sky of potentialities. Your radiant tomorrow is but a sunrise away. Sources:· <a href="https://mackinnonandpartners.com/evolution-of-solar-energy/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">Evolution of Solar Energy (mackinnonandpartners.com)</a>· <a href="https://www.nrel.gov/news/video/solar-energy-basics-text.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">Solar Energy Basics (Text Version) | NREL</a>· <a href="https://www.enelgreenpower.com/learning-hub/renewable-energies/solar-energy/advantages-solar-energy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">Benefits of solar energy | Enel Green Power</a>· <a href="https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/solar/solar-energy-pros-and-cons/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">The Pros and Cons Of Solar Energy (2024 Guide) – Forbes Home</a>· <a href="https://www.constellation.com/energy-101/energy-innovation/solar-energy-pros-and-cons.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">The Pros and Cons of Solar Energy | Constellation</a>· <a href="https://energy.mit.edu/research/future-solar-energy/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">The Future of Solar Energy | MIT Energy Initiative</a>· <a href="https://sitn.hms.harvard.edu/flash/2019/future-solar-bright/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">The Future of Solar is Bright - Science in the News (harvard.edu)</a>· <a href="https://www.nrel.gov/news/program/2022/building-a-solar-powered-future.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(5, 99, 193);">Building a Solar-Powered Future | News | NREL</a>

NEW

Solar Energy: The Knight In Shining Armor

We all know about climate change. With every second that passes, it is becoming a bigger problem that our world is facing today. Nowadays, everyone is engaged in efforts to combat global warming and reduce environmental damage. Research proves that the main culprit of climate change is the practice of fossil fuel burning. Now, we could simply tell them to stop. But it’s never that easy. To create electricity that powers your daily lives, companies use non renewable sources of power such as natural gas and coal. And stopping this means cutting off the world’s power supply. Because firms use these sources, they end up emitting harmful gasses into the air which worsen our environment. <h2>Upon this realization, countries started to invest into renewable sources like solar energy</h2>These power sources were both sustainable and environmentally friendly. Thus, solar power emerged as a reliable substitute especially because of its convenient transformation of sunlight into electricity. According to many researchers, solar energy is a worthy investment. And that’s why a lot of people are choosing to make that change to reduce their electricity costs. Climate activists all over the world greatly advocate for this shift and protest against the fossil fuels industry. Despite its initial rise to popularity, solar energy still has a long way to go. A lot of research and development to formulate cheap and long-lasting solar panels is still undergoing. Thus, it will be a long time before the world abandons conventional energy and shifts to entirely renewable sources of energy. One hopes that this enthusiasm and dedication will continue. With time, it will spread further with more people leading environmentally conscious lives. Ultimately, the rise of solar energy represents the world’s desire to be sustainable and efficient.