Why solar energy?

Ever wonder why solar is a great alternative to standard grid electric  Let's look at 13 great reasons to use solar power and solar lighting systems over traditional electric.

1. Green – Solar is green. Green is the new black. Enough said. Green energy is totally the new rage, but it is also a way to look out for the future of our planet and reduce our impact.

2. Renewable – Solar is a renewable energy source. The sun is always present and even the cloudiest days, there is a bit of insolation available for the solar panels to soak up.

3. Available Anywhere – Solar can be installed anywhere, even when what it is powering is in the shade. No matter what the circumstance, if there is a sunny spot nearby the solar can be installed to power something remotely installed. There is even technology today turning roofing or windows into photovoltaic sources.

4. Durable – A silicon wafer is not durable itself, but stick it behind some glass and you have the making for something that can withstand a lot more of the elements. Best of all, as technology increases, the durability of the glass increases; check out SolarWorld's Indestructable Panels. Other protection, such as protective panel backs, can be used to increase the durability of free standing solar power systems.

5. Eco-Friendly – No harmful gases come from a solar panel.

6. Cost Savings – Solar provides cost savings by not having to pay for electricity  especially since electric costs continue to rise where the cost of solar continues to fall. Cost savings also can be calculated by eliminating the need to trench in grid power, disturbing surrounding landscapes and hardscapes, repairing areas, etc.

7. Easy Installation – Solar panels are easy to install, typically only needing a few bolts to hold them secure and some basic wiring. Solar lighting systems provide the solar power system at the top of the pole for most installation configurations, leaving all important electrical material at the top of the pole. Solar power systems can require a bit more for a simple installation; however, the low voltage DC power is much safer to work with than standard electric.

8. Low Voltage – Solar utilizes lower voltage, typically 12 or 24 Volts DC, which means safer usage and installation.

9. Energy Savings – Solar utilizes lower powered items such as LED / CFL lamps, lower powered electronics, etc. that do not use as much power as standard electric systems. Also, LEDs are powered from 12 VDC initially and require AC adapters to power with standard electric. By using DC power for LEDs, they are able to operate more efficiently by providing more light and less heat.

10. No Trenching – Got a parking lot that needs lighting but the cement has already been poured? Need to put in a camera that is across the road from power lines? That’s fine with solar since each system stands alone and can be mounted anywhere (see No. 3). Oh, and did we mention the cost savings since you don't have to tear up that existing hardscape and then repair it (see No. 6)?

Culled from www.sepco-solarlighting.com