Craven Academy: Real Estate

Do we have a shortage of energy on earth?  In some ways yes we do, and in some ways no, we do not.  It is more of a resource problem in some respects, and a failure to take advantage of certain resources in another.  For example, most would agree that it is getting more and more expensive to find good sources of light sweet crude oil.  Others long for the day when it becomes more inexpensive to increasingly take advantage renewable resources such solar, hydroelectric and geothermal, which are in great abundance.  There is also the problem of shortages in precious metals, including the "rare earth" varieties, essential to manufacturing and many modern technologies.

The biggest problem isn't a resource shortage of any kind, but it is that human civilization's hunger for energy continue to increase in dramatic fashion.  Most likely this trend will not be sustainable, and it would be better to confront it now than later, when we have no choice.

Most would agree that it would be beneficial for us to follow a path of energy conservation, and to pursue means of generating electricity that is less draining on our limited natural resources.--preferably sources of energy that are clean and truly renewable.

One clean source of energy is that which is emitted by the sun:  The capturing of solar power energy via photovoltaic systems.  While solar panel do take resources to build (e.g. aluminum), once created, they can generate power for decades.  There are some studies that indicate that solar power systems' impact on the environment is less invasive than giant wind turbines.  There are also ways to passively harness the power of the sun via creative architectural design and proper insulation techniques.

ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS OF SOLAR POWER SYSTEMS

The two benefits of installing solar panels in the home are:  1) Less energy used from the traditional source, "The Grid," and, 2)  The potential for generating and adding to the energy capabilities of the grid (i.e. when a "surplus" is generated by a home solar power system).

PERSONAL BENEFITS OF A SOLAR POWER SYSTEM

In some states, there still exist tax credits to offset the initial cost of installing a solar panel power system.  Such a home power system would reduce electricity bills and eventually the system would pay for itself.  Given a large enough number of solar panels and an appropriate energy conservation plan, an adequate battery array could store enough power to get through consecutive cloudy days, when there is less sun energy hitting the solar panels.

INSTALLING A SOLAR POWER SYSTEM IN THE HOME

The adaptation of this technology for a green home usage is not new.  Many instructional books and manuals and entire solar power system kits are available for the do-it-yourself homeowner.  For those looking to contribute to the cause of energy conservation and saving on their utility bills, it is something worthy of consideration.  Of course,  like any home improvement project, this will take research and planning, but the rewards will be long-lasting, on a variety of levels.  When in doubt, hire a professional for an initial consultation.  These services are fairly common now, and even available via places such as Home Depot.

To learn more about solar power systems for the home,  see "Types of Solar Power Systems."