Category — SOLAR

One of the biggest dangers to the grid is bothering the British Secretary of Defense Liam Fox. Today he warns that the electricity grid, financial networks and transport infrastructure could be paralyzed by a solar flare.

Fox is no fringe lunatic. He used to be a medical practioner.

There is a growing threat of electromagnetic disruption to the underpinnings of modern life, the Defense Secretary told a meeting of scientists and security advisers today.

Dr. Fox said he wants to address the “vulnerabilities” in the nation’s hi-tech infrastructure.

“As the nature of our technology becomes more complex, the threat becomes more widespread as well,” he says. (more…)

Proud - Sanyo's new panel

Electronics company SANYO has finally launched  its most powerful solar cells to date – claiming a 21.1% efficiency with a module output of 235W. Shipping of this new module will commence across Europe from this month.

The much-hyped cells were announced months ago but are only now available to consumers, enhancing performance and value in limited space installations.

But be warned, the modules themselves only claim efficiency of of 18.6% – and it is the modules you will be buying, not the cells on their own. (more…)

CHARGE!

Power consumption at Fort Bliss has dropped by three megawatts, and the post is looking to shed even more in its quest to become a “net zero” energy installation (see video below). (more…)

DIY solar - check the v-book

Here is an example of how to make the best use of the home you have – however un-eco it was to start with.
Pete Vigs has slashed his family’s energy use by converting to a net-zero solar powered home that uses no oil or gas.
His 4 part video (click keep reading to see it) shows all the changes he’s made, three years into a 10 year peak oil preparedness plan. To his surprise, his life is now better while using much less energy and having less impact on the environment. (more…)

Here comes the sun

A sunspace can make a dark room into a bright living space. It is also a source of solar heating for your home and a place to garden all year round.

A sunspace is usually a light-frame enclosure made of glass or other transparent glazing, aluminum or wood framing, windows, skylights and sliding glass doors. Also known as conservatory, greenhouse, solarium, or sunroom.

Pre-engineered sunspace kits (such as this one) are available in a variety of sizes and styles but be careful to find one which specifically aims to enhance the solar heating capacity if that is what you are after. (more…)