I recently overheard a conversation that made me think. A man, who was clearly respected by his friends as someone knowledgeable, commented that solar wasn’t ready for prime time because it isn’t efficient enough. But is this true? The simple answer is “no.” Solar is plenty efficient. The solar electric panels that go on your [...]
Archive for the ‘Solar power’ Category
Is solar efficient enough?
Posted: February 11, 2012 in Conservation, Solar powerTags: photovoltaic, solar electric, solar electric panels, solar panels, solar panels for your home
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Thanksgiving Documentary Weekend – Here Comes the Sun
Posted: November 26, 2011 in Documentaries, Solar powerTags: documentary, energy, movie
A lot of people end up at my blog because they’re looking for this documentary on solar power. So here it is. Enjoy!
Swimming Pools: Save Energy While Enjoying the Summer Heat
Posted: July 11, 2011 in Conservation, HVAC, Plumbing, Solar powerTags: electric bills, pool pump, pump, swimming pool
If you have a swimming pool, you probably hate to see your utility bills during the summer. Chances are, you’ve attributed the high bills to your air conditioner. But pools and their associated pumping equipment might be responsible for at least as much energy use as that big central air conditioner! Why does the [...]
The Sustainable Building Advisor Institute
Posted: April 8, 2011 in Building Science, Conservation, Construction techniques, Solar powerTags: green building, sustainable building
It’s been a busy week for me with my startup, OurKudos.com, so I haven’t had much time to contribute to Ted’s Tips. But now on a rainy Friday night, I feel the need to decompress and talk about energy efficiency and sustainable building again! I got an announcement today from the Sustainable Building Advisor Program, [...]
The Energy Geek Video: Sun Tubes and Skylights
Posted: March 5, 2011 in Conservation, Lighting, Solar power, WindowsTags: lighting, solar, solatube, sun tube, suntube
My first Energy Geek video! This is the companion video for the recent article on Sun tubes. Don’t expect much production quality. These videos will be like this blog – unedited, not politically correct, lots of opinions. So if you’re expecting “This Old House” you better look elsewhere! —— FAQ for Solatubes
Bright Ideas for Saving Energy #5: Sun Tubes
Posted: March 4, 2011 in Conservation, Lighting, Solar power, WindowsWhat’s better than a sunny day? A sunny day that helps illuminate the normally dark recesses of your home! Normally, people install skylights – basically just windows built into the roof. But skylights have several problems: They’re incredibly energy inefficient. Even a good, double glazed, low-e unit is a poor insulator. If they’re not facing [...]
Here Comes the Sun – Documentary on Solar Power
Posted: March 2, 2011 in Solar powerTags: solar energy, solar power
Question: What are your thoughts on solar heated water?
Posted: February 26, 2011 in Conservation, HVAC, Solar power, Water heatingQuestion: What are your thoughts on solar heated water? Answer: Solar water heaters are one of the most underutilized alternative energy systems in the U.S. What could be better than reducing your energy consumption using the sun? Many other countries have “got it” and you’ll see solar water heating systems on most roofs. There are [...]
