Here is a site that offers free books to you or your family. I’m sure if you are a teacher or a student, you will also enjoy it. The site address is:
You might have seen this site on CNN or been tweeted or facebooked on it…in some ways it is amazing!
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This is apparently a classic project management essay. Can anyone tell me why?
Inside Man: Revival of the Heist Movie?
Filed in Film on September 26, 2006
Crime Films: A Monthly Column
By Nicole Rafter
Spike Lee’s Inside Man (2006) may mark the rehabilitation of the heist movie, an engrossing crime film genre that recently has tended to falter, stumble, and fall on its face.
How can we best define the heist film? According to the dictionary, a heist is an unlawful appropriation of someone else’s property, a hold-up accomplished through violence. Heist films concentrate on not just any hold-up but a final triumphant haul, a single major scheme that will enable the thieves to go straight and live in style forever. While banks are their usual target, movie heisters also plot against racetracks, safes, and rich Texans–anyone or anything that controls massive amounts of removable wealth.
Heist films are highly plotted, with the emphasis falling on intricate planning. Traditionally they were intellectual thrillers with engaging protagonists–smart guys after what we all want: immense piles of money. They enabled us to identify with the bad guys–to admire their audacity, brains, and ambition–while they also, ultimately, condemned the thieves’ greed. Movie heists were usually non-violent; the heisters got into that bank vault through brains, not brawn (or at least not through shooting people), and they got out the door through their wits. Most of their schemes ended in failure and death, however, a sign of the heist film’s roots in film noir and of movies’s need to disapprove of crime in the long run. (The exception here is Bound (1996), which features female heisters and delights in challenging moral codes.)
Heist films are frequently confused with other types of thrillers, such as revenge films and complex underworld films such as Kiss of Death (1949). They are also confused with bank robbery films such as Bonnie and Clyde that don’t qualify because they are more episodic, following an entire criminal career instead of a single plot for a big haul. But knowing what to include in the heist category can be difficult. I’d include The Talented Mr Ripley (1999), starring Matt Damon, because it is an intellectual thriller with a single criminal masterplan. However, I’m unsure about The Simple Plan, Sam Raimi’s 1998 movie about people who serendipitously find a downed plane with a cockpit full of money and then face the problem of making the booty their own. (I’d like to know readers’ opinions on this.)
Heist films, as Shots in the Mirror shows at greater length, enjoyed a golden age from about 1950 to the mid-1960s, a period that saw the release of such classics as White Heat (1949), Asphalt Jungle (1950), The Killing (1956), and The Killers (1964). Paralleling these American heist movies, French classics appeared in the same time period: Rififi (1955) and Bob le flambeur (1955). But then decline set in. Off-the-mark efforts include Killing Zoe (1994), a would-be hip film that replaces the traditional taut scenes of studying the bank’s blueprints with tedious episodes of drug partying. American counterparts include Ocean’s Eleven (2001) and Ocean’s Twelve (2004)–comedies more than crime films–and The Italian Job (2003), a movie larded with (and weakened by) interminable boat and car chases. Jam-packed with plot improbabilities, The Italian Job fails to do what a genuine heist film must do: challenge our wits. We couldn’t possibly guess what its thieves are going to do next because no one could actually do it.
For Inside Man Spike Lee assembled a terrific cast, many of them actors with whom he’d worked with before, including his friend “D”: Denzel Washington, here playing hostage negotiator Keith Frazer, the film’s chief cop. The acting is particularly good in the ad-libbed interrogation scenes, where Washington, given opportunities to improvise, fleshes out his character and interjects witticisms into the dialogue. (To a released Sikh hostage who complains that the cops have confiscated his turban, Frazer replies, “But I bet you can get a cab in New York,” an ad-lib that forced Spike Lee to cut the scene abruptly in order to excise his whoop of laughter.) Lee here editorializes less than usual; although he still preaches, for the most part he instructs by following the maxim Show Don’t Tell..
Playing with heist film traditions, Inside Man offers both a heist film and an anti-heist or un-heist film simultaneously. While I don’t want to give the plot away entirely, let me mention that those guys with the guns and masks are not really bank robbers, and that the true bad guys are the corporate types–the bank chairman (Christopher Plummer) and the power broker (Jodie Foster). In this heist film, you can’t tell the hostages from the thieves, and the story does not end in failure. Few critics picked up on this playful element in the script. Reviewer Roger Ebert, for example, wrote that “We can’t accept the motive and method of the bank robbery.” Of course not–we aren’t supposed to! The movie itself gently pokes fun at the motives and methods used in traditional heist movies, as Ebert and other critics might have realized through Inside Man’s references to an earlier anti-heist, Dog Day Afternoon (1975).
What I liked best about Inside Man was its easy, relaxed tone: the film is casual, comfortable, self-assured. Lee’s low key style is a welcome contrast to the faux anxieties and strained efforts to amp up tensions that we find in, for instance, The Italian Job. Nor does Inside Man’s camera work indulge in the smarmy steep angles and endless closeups with which other recent heist films labor to make big stars seem heroic. Its camerawork is, instead, straightforward, almost intimate, with crane shots reserved to establish the Wall Street setting.
Does Inside Man signal a revitalization of the heist movie? That remains to be seen, of course, but hopefully, the future will bring a restoration of the heist film’s traditional liveliness and wit. With luck, we will start to see more tight, unpretentious heist films like Inside Man.
Nicole Rafter is the author of Shots in the Mirror: Crime Films and Society, a sociocultural study of the crime film genre. She is currently a professor at Northeastern University in the Law, Policy, and Society program. Her column is published on the 4th Tuesday of every month. Check out last month’s column on Miami Vice.
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Yesterday, I presented a couple of thoughts about the future effects of the millions of roof top solar panel installations and backyard wind turbines. In some jurisdictions, utility companies have done a great lobbying job by slowing the process of microgeneration and picogeneration efforts. Whether the utilities are successful at slowing renewable energy installations or not, the infrastructure problem must be faced sooner or later.
Virtual power plants are concepts where microgeneration installations are grouped together and treated as a more conventional and larger power plant. This works quite well because the individual installations are responding to similar conditions at least on a statistical control basis. For example, most solar panels will be generating power during the same sunlit hours and will be affected by cloud or precipitation in similar ways. And this is also true for all the wind turbine installations connected to the same power grid. Or the modest hydroelectric, biomass, or other cogeneration efforts of families or businesses.
Utility companies and other organizations are modeling virtual power plants right now to develop plans for the future of their grids. Their aim is to remove the statistical unreliability of individual installations of a variety of technologies. In this way, they will be able to predict when supply will be available from the virtual power plant. We can think of it in the same way that utilities think of loads. While an individual stove being turned on is hardly noticeable, the preparation of dinner across a whole grid is an important event and one that is dealt with effectively and daily.
This is also a business opportunity. Businesses will be created to handle virtual power plants and local governments are likely to get back into the business of power generation to protect their ratepayers. The deregulation mess of the last few decades will go through another upheaval as these new opportunities are developed and local microgenerators leverage their capabilities for the best available pricing. For example, a business with solar panels on the roof could belong to several virtual power plant companies and decide which is offering the best price for the power they are generating today.
This is not science fiction. There are tests happening now in Europe where renewable and alternative energy projects are decades ahead of us in North America. In the United Kingdom and in Spain, for example, the Flexible Electricity Network to Integrate the eXpected energy evolution (FENIX) is bringing together energy companies and academics with the help of the European Union. They are studying how virtual power plants and the overall aggregation of power from various sources can assist our transition to Distributed Energy Resources (DERs). Their current studies are looking at grids with a 100 megawatt capacity to provide the electrical supply for more than 100,000 people. While this is less than one percent of either countries power needs, it is an excellent way to start.
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In another post, I wrote a few thoughts about the problems that sustainable development from solar panels and wind turbines will cause to utilities and to the infrastructure that has been deregulated. There is great cynicism about the role of the utilities, in fact, some people never have a good thing to say about the utilities. Be that as it may, we must face the situation that is clearly coming. As more and more alternative energy producers bring their projects on line, the utilities must deal with them.
In some places, utility lobbyists appear to have slowed the process of connecting renewable energy projects to the grid or to partnering with homeowners or non-utility business owners. However, more enlightened jurisdictions will need to solve the problem soon. Fortunately, the solution can be anticipated as clearly as we can see the coming problem. Fortunately the solution will not be in changes to the infrastructure but to the way in which utilities respond to the variable, distributed energy produced on rooftop solar panels and backyard wind turbines as well as larger commercial solar panel and wind turbine farms.
The virtual power plant concept means that these variable power sites can be grouped and treated as if they represent power plants in the traditional sense and can be treated with the same statistical certainty. In the past, power companies ran their grids as if they could ignore sources of alternative energy, but those times are passing. The companies know to the penny the cost of overloads or brownouts second by second. They will have to improve their models to include sustainable, alternative, renewable energy projects.
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From time to time consumers are presented with stories about our crumbling public infrastructure. Governments across North America continue this century’s race to deregulation of the utilities built by taxpayers over the past century. While many express their concern over the financial mess we are beginning to face, the social cost of turning this vital infrastructure element over to managers more intent on satisfying shareholder concerns than maintaining service or protecting the value of local property. I know these are the kinds of things the customers of these more and more distant utilities speak to me about.
Homeowners and business owners are investing in renewable energy at a growing rate. New and old utilities are also turning to alternatives from the fossil fuels that have typically fired power plants. The new public policy issue is quite clear: the combination of these factors threaten the grid.
Since the deregulation debate began, many have said that our greatest danger is that the time will come when infrastructure failures will mean they are reacquired by the public. This follows the argument that deregulation is a plan that will drain the value from utilities and then taxpayers will have to pay to rebuild the infrastructure. Now it appears that our drive towards sustainable development will hasten the infrastructure failure. The diverse new power suppliers will contribute energy in fluctuating amounts and on unknowable occasions. This unpredictability is much greater than the more well understood variability of consumer loads. This is a situation that deserves some additional consideration.
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Wow! I was hoping to drop a line or two this afternoon but it has been a crazy day. On sunny days, we have people dropping by to chat about solar panels. On windy days, we have people dropping by to chat about wind turbines. When the weather is bad, people drop by to chat about what they need to install on the next nice day. I think they are just looking for some place that is dry and warm!
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Here are a couple of other articles that try to explain why alternative energy systems can sove problems you are concerned with. We usually consider these concerns with your utility. Costs, environment, or safety are the general way we describe your concerns in general.
Usually, you are concerned with the size of your electric bill and the way that price increases seem to be out of your control.
Environmental concerns are more individual - some people are more concerned with how the energy is generated - usually by fossil fuels. As you know, there are lots of reason to be concerned over the use of fossil fules. Fossil fuels are finite. Many people are concerned about the source of fossil fuels - often sent from areas of the world that are not friendly to our way of life. Some people are concerned about the damage to the environment caused by power generation - acid rain, water use or abuse, strip mining, flooding for hydroelectric power - different concerns for different situations. Some people are concerned about transmission line environmental issues. As I say, there are so many ways in which people have concerns about traditional power generation and the environment.
Some people have safety concerns - usually concerns about spikes or brownouts, even blackouts, due to changes in utlity priorities and the result of interconnecting sources and end users over hundreds and sometimes thousands of miles of cables.
Here are some explanations from the general public of steps they have taken to deal with these concerns.
Reduce Electric Bill Tips - Easy Ways to Cut Your Electric Bill
These reduce electric bill tips should help you reduce your electricity bill once and for all. They are easy to implement and guaranteed to save you money. . .View the article
Lowering the Electric Bill Fast
Do you want to know the secrets of lowering the electric bill fast? Even though you cannot reduce the costs of energy and electricity, there is one great way to reduce your electricity bills by building your own renewable energy systems at home. To avoid rising bills every month, more and more people are looking into this alternative method seriously, and many have successfully been able to adopt it. I am personally enjoying the benefits of creating my own clean and green energy, saving more than 70% of my monthly bills nowadays. . .View the article
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One of the benefits of a renewable energy system that you install is that you can control and gain the convenience of locating your system where it can do you the most good. If you have a need for power where you would need to pay for transmission lines and other charges, this can be a great option. Both solar and wind power can provide great options for your cabin or other building.
Low-Cost Solar Energy for Your Outback Cabin
Do you have a backwoods bungalow or cabin which you have trouble acquiring access to power? Get affordable solar energy for your inaccessible cabin or cottage by capitalising inexhaustible energy and go independent. Discover how to construct your own personal do-it-yourself solar panel for under $200 or your own do-it-yourself wind generator for below $100 and live off-the-grid. . .View the article.
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More and more people are living in communities where wind turbines are the devices of choice. While we used to think of them as rural choices - and they still work very well for farmers and ranchers - we find more applications in suburbs or industrial parks than ever before.
Businesses can quickly install turbines to take advantage of the open space around their facilities and reduce their utility costs. They see cost advantages in two ways. First, there is the direct energy savings of the free wind power. Second, most businesses have energy contracts that see different charges for different levels of electricity use. By dropping the energy requirements, they see additional savings beyond the straight “per watt” charge.
Businesses also see a great marketing advantage in the improvement in their corporate image. A row of turbines on the rooftop is an excellent statement of their commitment to being “green.”
Drastically Reduce Your Utility Bills by Adding a Small Wind Turbine to Your Home
Saving money on your home utility bills is important in a recession and there’s no better way to shrink your bills than by harnessing the power of alternative energy sources. It sounds complicated but by adding a small wind turbine to your home you can drastically reduce your utility bills. . . View the article
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I never get enough of reading how people describe the value they see in generating their own power from free, clean, safe energy from the sun.
Adding Solar Panels to Your Home Will Slash Utility Bills and Help Save Our Planet
Convert to Solar Power Today! Solar Power has been developing since the late 1800’s but now, in 2009, we are finally beginning to see its potential. While there are many renewable energy sources being explored, Solar Power is one of the few alternative energy plans that can be used at home. Solar power kits have been making it possible to make this sustainable, renewable resource available to those who don’t know how to build a solar panel. . .View the article
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For some reason, clotheslines have become common in some communities and completely forbidden in others. People have strong feelings about their position on this issue. Some communities have by-laws against the use of clotheslines and levy large fines if someone dries their belongings outdoors. Other communities highlight their family oriented design by including a clothesline in the backyard. Here is a perspective on how outdoor laundry drying can be a great energy saver.
Going Green - Air Drying Your Laundry Lowers Energy Bills and Helps the Earth
Energy costs are going up, according to a recent news bulletin. The demand for energy is also increasing. No matter what the energy prices are, you still need clean clothes. How can you lower your power bills? Air-drying laundry is one solution. This article describes the types of air-dryers and gives you practical tips on hanging laundry.View the article
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There are too many fly-by-night operators putting out poor quality systems (usually unrelated components) and here is a casual discussion of the need for the considerations in the initial design of power systems.
The Importance of Good Solar Panel Plans
What is the importance of having an incredible solar panel plan? Well it can make or break you. The difference between a professional plan a regular free one put together by a random person is a risk that you probably do not want to take. You definitely deserve and want the best so it is important to find the best solar panel kit for you! . . .View the article
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Many of our customers originally tried to build their own hot water systems. While we think we have the the best systems you can get, we realize that people have all kinds of reasons for finding renewable energy solutions.
Easy to Build Solar Water Heater Options
With a self built solar powered water heater you will significantly reduce the costs of your electricity bills. Not only that, but you can also build a mini water heater that can be taken camping or hiking. You need a few bits and pieces from the local hardware store, some project schematics, and a bit of time to cut and assemble. Obviously the bigger the project, the more time is required. This article gives you a general overview of the building process, and shows you where to download some easy to build solar water heater blueprints. . .View the article
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I came across this note a while ago and thought it provided an interesting way to discuss the inverter technology.
Inverter Technology Continues to Improve
Inverters change DC electricity produced by solar panels into AC electricity required by most household appliances. Advances in technology allow 85-90+ percent efficiency, and are continuing to improve efficiency and reliability. . .View the article
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There are only so many hours in the day and only so many issues we can take on. Potable water is a concern that most have us have put some thought into from time to time. Various commentators have made suggestions about how we can helpo ourselves and our planet extend the use of our scarce fresh water. Here is an idea or two from one of you…
Time to Save the Environment? How About the One Minute Shower!
In many drought stricken parts of the world water restrictions could mean shorter shower times. An enjoyable hygienic one minute shower is possible, and getting into practice now will help the environment and reduce your water costs. . . View the article
Making Your Home Water Wise - Reduce Water Wastage
By reducing water wastage around the home you can save on heating and water bills. Making your home water wise could save as much as 50% of water used, and with many local governments offering rebates to install water wise products, now is a good time to do your bit for the environment. . .View the article
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A hundred years ago and fifty years ago, it seemed that science was on the cusp of finding small, self-contained power units that would solve the earth’s energy needs forever. Have we finally found the magic? I guess we will find out soon. It is good to know that research continues.
Is room-temperature fusion in from the cold?
The pursuit of abundant, dirt-cheap energy via cold fusion is now being taken much more seriously, thanks to tell-tale evidence from a US lab. . .View the arricle
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It seems hard to believe now that the electric car has come and gone so many times in the twentieth century. There is an excellent, albeit somewhat one sided, documentary from a few years ago called “Who killed the electric car?” It features celebrities like Alexandra Paul and Bill Nye as well as all kinds of car company spokesmen and government bureaucrats. Into the drama of conflicting perspectives on technology and environmental responsibility, it seems there was a turn-around by both parties in the presidential race coincident with the failure of the big three automakers. Today we are just months away from seeing new players in the transportation market and huge changes by existing stakeholders. For example, both Honda and Toyota hybrids are about thirty percent less expensive than they were five years ago. This is probably due to the pressure by other hybrid manufacturers and the effects of other, perhaps better technologies that will be available to us.
Electric cars: Juiced up and ready to go
The compact, powerful batteries needed to create viable electric cars are tantalisingly close, but which of the competing options will become the next power player?
View the entire article
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Here is an article that I thought deserved getting out to as many people as possible. While we are always looking for the latest and greatest, it never hurts to have a peek over the horizon and see what science has come up with and some of our fine manufacturers will have in stores some time in the future. This is an article about research into new uses for today’s advanced technology . . . in this case, how how synthetic biological matter may have the solution to energy needs in the future. The intriguing headline in New Scientist was “Glass leaf ’sweats’ to generate electricity”
Artificial photosynthesis has yet to be cracked, but engineers say that synthetic leaves could be turned into power plants using transpiration instead . . . view the whole article
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Here is an interesting read on how solar power and alternative energy in general could define the twenty-first century.
Review: The Solar Century edited by Jeremy Leggett
As we embark on a solar revolution, the author wades in with an easy-to-read guide explaining the why and how of solar power, from thin-film silicon to electric cars
View the entire review
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Day to day I work with contractors and people who are convinced of the value of taking on the do it yourself project. More and more this means that everybody is likely to come in my door! On the other hand, I am usually speaking with men and listening to their concerns and ideas about renewable energy or energy efficiency. It will be no surprise to anyone that some of the best discussions are initiated by the women who come in to see us. Earlier today I was thinking about some of the ideas I heard about energy efficiency in the kitchen. It seems to me that the water use is the one that men like to chat about but the rest of these ideas come from women.
The water use and appliance issues were noted in the first four parts of this thread. Let’s look at another aspect of energy efficiency in the kitchen. Your kitchen may be where that majority of your applicances are located and may be the room that uses the most energy. It is worth your time to think about how energy efficient use of your kitchen can improve your life. If you are already using our solar panels or wind turbines, then you are already committed thinking about efficiency and some of these ideas will fit well with your overall plans.with all its appliances, gadgets and heat, is a real hot spot for potential energy saving.
Some of the best energy efficiency ideas are the easiest to do and are really more like common sense. I must admit they are the common sense ideas of people who are making the most efficient use of their kitchens. One good example is the way people will be efficient in how they work in the kitchen and how that translates into energy efficiency. In part three we looked at having things ready at the right time means cooking for the right time. In part four we considered how water used in cooking can be used in a more energy efficient way. Let’s look at another category of tips.
Third, sometimes using appliances at the right time makes the most sense. We know that the barbecue is a great appliance and because it is not usually in the kitchen, gives us an opportunity to be outside in good weather. Again, there may be very good opportunities to be energy efficient. If we are turning on the barbecue, maybe more or the meal can be cooked there. Perhaps the side dishes can all be roasted while the meat is being grilled. Going back to the stove, we can probably cook more and faster if we steam instead of boiling our food and also enjoy better nutrition as well. Using the dishwasher during the night or at least after dark will usually mean that the heat it generates will be used to help with the heating or at least not compete with the air conditioner. Actually utility company studies have shown that cooking later in the evening will help out public infrastructure. This is generally due to spreading the load around a longer period of time.
Well, out of time again and I think I’ll leave this subject for a while but I look forward to your comments.
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Day to day I work with contractors and people who are convinced of the value of taking on the do it yourself project. More and more this means that everybody is likely to come in my door! On the other hand, I am usually speaking with men and listening to their concerns and ideas about renewable energy or energy efficiency. It will be no surprise to anyone that some of the best discussions are initiated by the women who come in to see us. Earlier today I was thinking about some of the ideas I heard about energy efficiency in the kitchen. It seems to me that the water use is the one that men like to chat about but the rest of these ideas come from women.
The water use and appliance issues were noted in the first three parts of this thread. Let’s look at another aspect of energy efficiency in the kitchen. Your kitchen may be where that majority of your applicances are located and may be the room that uses the most energy. It is worth your time to think about how energy efficient use of your kitchen can improve your life. If you are already using our solar panels or wind turbines, then you are already committed thinking about efficiency and some of these ideas will fit well with your overall plans.with all its appliances, gadgets and heat, is a real hot spot for potential energy saving.
Some of the best energy efficiency ideas are the easiest to do and are really more like common sense. I must admit they are the common sense ideas of people who are making the most efficient use of their kitchens. One good example is the way people will be efficient in how they work in the kitchen and how that translates into energy efficiency. In part three we looked at having things ready at the right time means cooking for the right time. Let’s look at another category of tips.
Second, let’s look at water use again, but from another perspective. Once water has been heated, do you really want to send hot water into your sewer or septic system. Not only is the energy wasted down there, it may even mean more problems for you in terms of future underground maintenance. Instead, it often makes sense to let the heat and humidity of the water stay in the living area of the house. You may still want to pour the water down the drain but once you have a pot of water that used to have vegetables or pasta in it, it may be good for another cooking job. Or perhaps, let it cool off before you use it for watering your plants.
Out of time again, back with more kitchen tips next time.
Check out our clean, green eBook!
Day to day I work with contractors and people who are convinced of the value of taking on the do it yourself project. More and more this means that everybody is likely to come in my door! On the other hand, I am usually speaking with men and listening to their concerns and ideas about renewable energy or energy efficiency. It will be no surprise to anyone that some of the best discussions are initiated by the women who come in to see us. Earlier today I was thinking about some of the ideas I heard about energy efficiency in the kitchen. It seems to me that the water use is the one that men like to chat about but the rest of these ideas come from women.
The water use and appliance issues were noted in the first two parts of this thread. Let’s look at another aspect of energy efficiency in the kitchen. Your kitchen may be where that majority of your applicances are located and may be the room that uses the most energy. It is worth your time to think about how energy efficient use of your kitchen can improve your life. If you are already using our solar panels or wind turbines, then you are already committed thinking about efficiency and some of these ideas will fit well with your overall plans.with all its appliances, gadgets and heat, is a real hot spot for potential energy saving.
Some of the best energy efficiency ideas are the easiest to do and are really more like common sense. I must admit they are the common sense ideas of people who are making the most efficient use of their kitchens. One good example is the way people will be efficient in how they work in the kitchen and how that translates into energy efficiency.
First, having things ready at the right time means cooking for the right time. A baking example might be just right for this tip. Usually you need to repeat the use of the oven while baking. The most efficient use of your time is probably the most energy efficent as well. You have a pile of cookies or loaves to prepare? Having the bext batch ready to slip into the oven when you are unloading means you are using the minimum amount of energy as well as taking the least amount of time to get the baking done. Similarly, cooking as many dishes as you can fit into the oven is energy efficient and good time management. Putting some extra potatoes in the oven to roast means having them in the refrigerator, ready to use in other dishes for several days. From a different perspective, if you are using the oven for one dish, can you use the oven for other dishes as well? It may be more efficient to select side dishes that will also use the oven and so reduce your energy use.
Out of time again, back with more kitchen tips next time.
Check out our clean, green eBook!
Day to day I work with contractors and people who are convinced of the value of taking on the do it yourself project. More and more this means that everybody is likely to come in my door! On the other hand, I am usually speaking with men and listening to their concerns and ideas about renewable energy or energy efficiency. It will be no surprise to anyone that some of the best discussions are initiated by the women who come in to see us. Earlier today I was thinking about some of the ideas I heard about energy efficiency in the kitchen. It seems to me that the water use is the one that men like to chat about but the rest of these ideas come from women.
The water use issues were noted in the first part of this thread. Let’s look at another aspect of energy efficiency in the kitchen. Your kitchen may be where that majority of your applicances are located and may be the room that uses the most energy. It is worth your time to think about how energy efficient use of your kitchen can improve your life. If you are already using our solar panels or wind turbines, then you are already committed thinking about efficiency and some of these ideas will fit well with your overall plans.with all its appliances, gadgets and heat, is a real hot spot for potential energy saving.
Energy saving appliances are always a good place to start and you will be paid real dividends by choosing the most efficient appliances possible. Keeping those appliances well maintained is also important. Making sure that doors seal properly and surfaces are clean can save up to fifty percent of your energy. When an oven door or refrigerator door doesn’t seal properly, what are you heating or cooling? This is just waste energy. When the heat transfer coils or stove burners are trying to work through debris or dust, you are losing energy for no purpose as well. One lady told me of a study she found that said putting foil below your burners could add up to three times the effectiveness of your energy used to cook.
Out of time again, back with more kitchen tips next time;
Check out how to turn back your meter!
Day to day I work with contractors and people who are convinced of the value of taking on the do it yourself project. More and more this means that everybody is likely to come in my door! On the other hand, I am usually speaking with men and listening to their concerns and ideas about renewable energy or energy efficiency. It will be no surprise to anyone that some of the best discussions are initiated by the women who come in to see us. Earlier today I was thinking about some of the ideas I heard about energy efficiency in the kitchen. It seems to me that the water use is the one that men like to chat about but the rest of these ideas come from women.
Some of the most common kitchen energy use issues deal with water and there are great technological answers here for solar powered heaters or inline heaters using gas or electricity. The solar powered heaters use the natural energy of the sun and thermo-conduction to provide an excellent source of water for washing and cleaning in the kitchen. The inline heaters, or tank-less heaters as they are often known, are very familiar in Europe and where ever engineers have thought about the waste than the typical hot water tank is. The inline systems provide hot water on demand often right at the location where the water is to be delivered - your sink or dishwasher, for example.
I am out of tme for this note but I am going to come back to this subject soon.
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Using the sun to heat water for our comfort and convenience has been helpful since we discovered how quickly shallow water warmed during the day. There are many ways the sun has been used. About a hundred years ago, there were great advances in the technology. Here is an article that lays out some of things to be considered. Of course, we have some excellent manufactured solutions.
DIY Solar Water Heater
It is totally possible to build your own solar water heater. There’s no need to spend tons of money one. You can easily make a DIY solar water heater that works in both warm and cold climates. This will greatly improve your home’s energy efficiency. If you want to completely increase performance while reducing electricity usage dramatically, then a self built solar heater is the way to go for you. . .View the article
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DIY panels are a project that many people interested in solar panels. While they work, they are seldom as efficient as ones manufactured with proper quality control. But we want you to have the information for your own use.
5 Ways to Make Money From Your Own DIY Solar Panels
DIY solar panels or those which you build yourself are becoming increasingly popular in this tight economic climate. When you consider that to have these tools professionally build and installed would cost upwards of $3000 and the ones you can build at home using household materials for practically nothing work just as well, it’s no wonder accounting for the gain in popularity all of a sudden and the number of guides devoted to teaching you how to build these yourself. Sure, the natural energy which you produce using DIY solar panels is great for the environment, but let’s not forget the money making aspect as well so here are 5 ways to make money from your own homemade panels. . .View this article
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There are lots of ways to say it, but sometimes someone has to say it. This sis a quick description of what many see as the future of power generation. We hear all kinds of arguments for and against renewable energy projects. These are some of the pro arguments that have some good points as well as attracting some of the arguments against power.
Like It Or Not, the Future Is Wind and Solar
The times are changing. This is a fact that many may refuse to accept, but the truth of the matter is right there in our faces. . . View the article
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We have a wide range of e-books that provide information and ideas about power systems and energy savings. But we keep our eyes open for other ways to present ideas and, of course, new ideas. For your reading pleasure, please have a look at these quick ideas.
3 Ways You Can Reduce the Electric Bill Now
How do you reduce the electric bill? What can you do to reduce the electric bill so you can have money in your pocket instead of giving it all to the electric company? We all know how it seems the electric company likes to rip people off. . .View this article
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We received this article because a customer felt it was a nice simple description of inverters that answered some questions that this customer had never thought to ask. Good enough for us! If this helps you to understand how you can connect an alternative power source like solar panels or a wind turbine so that you can power your appliances or even turn back your meter, then we are all for it!
Inverters - What They Are and Why You Need Them
In order to supply your appliances (TV, computer, lights) with the correct power from your solar or wind generation system, you will need an inverter. An inverter changes DC (Direct Current) power to AC and also changes the voltage. It is a power adapter that adapts your battery based power system to handle regular home appliances and lights . . . View the whole article
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This article was passed along as an example of an article that makes some good points about insulating our garage doors. Of course we have many fine products for saving energy in your home, but it never hurts to review your priorities as well. This article leaves us asking if your garage door is a major energy cost and whether you should do something about it.
The Main Benefit of Garage Door Insulation
Most people do not think twice about having their entire house insulated, except for one part: their garage. Not only that, but think about how volume this part of your house takes up, not to mention the fact that it often shares a wall or two with a main part of the home . . . View the whole article
Once again, we supply the whole article as it was presented to us. We have enough problems with our own spelling and grammar and simply add a little editorial comment. 
Joe
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Every day we see new or improved devices that use electricity. And, in increasing watts, the electricity is supplied by rechargeable batteries. The benefits of new battery technologies mean that they are being used in new and exciting ways. For example, almost every improved small appliance has new electronics that result in more features. There was a time when every adult had a personal time piece - usually a wrist watch that that each person valued and relied on. A few years ago, we laughed in exasperation at the number of clocks we reset when there was a power failure or in anticipation of a daylight savings time change. Now, the blinking lights are becoming a thing of the past as those devices are improved by additional computer resources so that they use small amounts of battery supplies and their internal programming to take care of these minor chronological problems in their stride. The point is that we live in households and businesses that have increasing demands for stored electricity in order to keep our up to date electronics working as expected. Certainly this is one of the motivations for adding solar panels and wind turbines to our homes and businesses. For our portable appliances or devices, we should consider portable solar chargers.
Portable solar chargers come in a variety of sizes and with a wide range of their own features. One of the most important is power generation capacity, the amount of watts that the charger can generate in an hour. This will give you an idea of the kind of devices that the charger will charge for you. This suggests the next important feature. That next important feature is the connectors that come with the charger. Once you know what devices can be charged, you must be sure the charger has the connectors for your devices. These are the two basic important features.
Portable solar chargers have panels that must be placed where they can convert light into electricity. These panels respond in different ways to different wavelengths of light - from infrared to ultraviolet. The panels are also available in rigid and flexible formats in various sizes. Increasing part of the design of all kinds of consumer goods, the panels may be single purpose photovoltaic sheets or part of your clothes or other accessories. You will find panels that are part of backpacks at the PICogeneration Mall. You will find other chargers, of course, at this site. Some of the most effective are found in the Green Batteries section.
Rechargeable batteries should be part of your consideration simply because so many of the devices you use, require separate batteries in various formats. AA and AAA are ones you likely use in large quantities although C, D, and 9V batteries are also very common. A portable solar charger should be part of your personal power generation planning for charging these batteries to keep your devices working well, clean and green.
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Earlier today I was chatting with a customer about using solar heating systems for their pool. He asked some excellent qyestions and I thought I would pass on the highlights to you. Solar heating has always been used for heating pools and technology improvements have made it a better idea than ever.
When I say that pools have always used solar heating, I am referring to the passive heating that occurs in nature. Water is an excellent heatsink or accumulator for heat and whether in natural pools or in waterparks, the sun’s energy is absorbed during the day. We experience this effect even on large bodies of water in the evaporation that leads to clouds and in the morning and evening changes in the local climate. For example, we will often see mists or fog in the morning when the cool air starts to move back over the water which has remained warmer than the air through the night. We also experience a change in the breezes that commonly change direction in the everning from off the lake as the air over the land cools much quicker thatn the air over the lake and causes a cyclonic effect.
Our pools at home also respond to this passive solar heating. Unfortunately, even indoor pools may take weeks to accumulate enough heat for your comfort. Fortunlately, we can easily adjust the use of passive solar heat to meet your needs. In our PICogeneration Mall, you will find different solar water heating solutions that can easily keep your pool at the temperature that you choose.
One of my recommendations is to use a system correctly sized, but not over-sized for this use. The other recommendation is that while you may easily do all your water heating with these solar water heaters, you will be much happier with a smaller solar water heater that is dedicated to keeping your pool at the right temperature and another system for your shower and washing needs. However, if you choose an electric or gas tankless water heater system, both your home and pool heating can be accommodated with just one heater of the right capacity. This is generally true because your pool system should be set neat the temperature that you want to the pool water to be while your household water system should be set neat the temperature that you choose for your washing needs. The passive system chosen should be circulating at the correct temperature while the tankless systems provide water heating on demand and will heat the water to the correct temperature when you call for it.
One thing that does not change under any circumstances is the need for a good indoor or outdoor pool cover. Your pool will lose heat to the air whenever the air is cooler than the water. The cover also prevents debris from falling in and hinders animals from using the pool. This will always be a major source of pool maintenance.
For indoor systems, you should also evaluate whether your ventilation system is performing properly. Indoor pools create a great deal of humidity that many home or building owners use throughout the building and perhaps for special purposes - atriums, solariums, greenhouses, etc. This can be very beneficial but it is important to stay aware of how this humidity affects the structure. One situation that often occurs is that uses change - a solarium becomes a workout area or a greenhouse becomes more of an art studio and workshop. Fixing your ventilation problems can be another simple solar energy project with the use of solar powered gable or attic fans. The cost is completely jjustifiable when measured against the damage that out of control humidity may cause.
Today’s customer left with a solar-powered gable fan and is getting some more information to change to a tankless gas water heating system. I appreciate the time we had together to go through the issues and look for to his updates on how he uses energy efficient power to make his life more comfortable and convenient.
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While most people find their greatest interest is in solar power, there are occasions where a wind turbine is the best solution to a need for alternative power. The renewable energy available from a wind turbine can be very effective.
Wind turbines are an excellent solution for remote sites. Rural properties have learned long ago that a small turbine can provide all the energy needed for small buildings or pumping. They also provide excellent results for business owners who mount them on their buildings. They help the business a great deal by providing low cost power, but more importantly, the turbines provide energy well suited for business areas that are affected by dirty power - spikes or brownouts. Labs and computers can show great results by powering them from renewable energy. In addition, businesses are typically in commercial contracts that benefit from even small reductions in power usage.
Many people find a combination approach works well. A solar panel system is outstanding for the small amount of maintenance needed to generate power for decades. A wind power system is outstanding for providing power over a wider range of times and weather conditions - like at night.
Here are a few articles that discuss the use of turbines in a variety of applications.
DIY Wind Energy is Now Available For Everyone
DIY wind energy is one of the fastest growing ways to both cut your energy costs and protect the environment. And, by doing it inexpensively, you can feel better about being green! . . . View this article
DIY Wind Generators - How to Build Your Own
Studies show that the average American household spends over $200 per month on heating, air conditioning, and electricity. And, most of us aren’t even comfortable. If we had our choice, we would turn our heaters up more in the winter, keep the house cooler in the summer, and use more hot water if we could afford it. The answer to this may be DIY wind generators. . .View this article
Do DIY Wind Turbines Really Work?
DIY wind turbines are one of the most popular ways to create your own energy. You may think that DIY wind turbines would be difficult or expensive to build, but they don’t have to be. Many guides today now provide available a complete set of instructions that will enable you to design, build, and install your new DIY wind turbines on your own property. . .View the article
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There are five common ways to justify alternate energy projects. The importance of these justifications changes from project to project and in some cases, one justification is all that is required. The SCGCS method we use at PICogeneration includes Safety, Convenience, Green, Cost, and Security. When building the business cases for project, we usually define each of these terms as they serve as buckets for assuring consideration of the perspectives needed for the project.
For example, Safety may refer to the need to reduce line noise or to protect electronic equipment from surges caused by other equipment or machinery. Convenience may refer to the remoteness of the project site or to the luxury that might be added to a home by solar-powered lighting to areas that electrical cables can’t easily penetrate. Green may refer to any number of environmental concerns that the consumer is trying to address. Examples would be reducing the family carbon footprint, providing offsets for greenhouse gases created in other parts of their lives or simply the consumer’s lifestyle choice. Costs are the most quantifiable justifications but consumer interests can change the kinds of quantities that are examined. For example, the current bureaucracy involved in the selling of energy to utilities often leads consumers to choose energy options that are directed at savings on their energy bill. Security may focus on the benefits of distributed generation. This entry deals with the Security factor.
Often consumers will consider that their energy project adds to their security because the project is under their control. They are right but there other security considerations. For example, alternate energy projects may provide a backup supply that increases their security by assuring that power will be available even if there are problems in the public electrical grid infrastructure. Once consumers hear this, they invariably make the next security point themselves. If they are protected from problems in then the grid is less stressed because of their energy project. One client painted a wonderful work picture by imagining that thousands of rooftops were wired to generate some of their own power and they would come on line along with the lightening shadows of the dawn and similarly shut down as the dusk horizon passed over them. Another time, a client became quite distracted thinking about how the wind blows in pockets and streams in the air and so all wind turbines are running at different speeds even if they are close to each other. That sounds like an interesting study for a weather expert, but was an interesting point. Another security issue that is often raised is the increased efficiency of distributed generation due to reduced transmission loss. This is a good point but an extremely complicated one. The efficiency of a megaproject power plant may offset the loss in transmitting the power to your local substation. If the heat from the generation process is being used in another industrial process this may add to the efficiency of the process.
So we see that Security can be a consideration in an alternate energy project for many reasons. Consumer control may be the issue. Power supply security may be important. Improving service and reducing costs may have the most current significance due to daily bombardment of concerns over funding new or upgraded infrastructure elements. And of course, many people avoid thinking about the hundreds of miles between the power plant and their freezer. These are just some of the concerns that consumers have when they come looking for alternate energy services or energy saving products.
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This week, the 20 Solar Stocks Index (20SSI) outperformed the Dow Jones Industrial Index (DJIA) and the Nasdaq despite their strong showing this week. The index was created this year at the beginning of May. It provides a way of measuring the health of the industry and also provides an opportunity to financial service companies for the sale of financial instruments based on this index. The 20SSI gained 65.5 points to finish this afternoon at 458 points, a 16.69% increase from last week. The DJIA finished above 9000 points for the first time since January 2 with a rise of nearly 350 points due in large part to the 947 point rise since July 10 and a gain in nine of the last ten trading days. The DJIA and NASDAQ have run neck-and neck in the past two weeks in percentage terms. The sunny days on Wall Street have been largely the result of good quarterly earnings in the recent reports of many public companies.
The 20SSI is comprised of Akeena Solar (AKNS), Amtel Systems (ASYS), Applied Materials (AMAT), Canadian Solar (CSIQ), ECD UniSolar (ENER), Entech Solar (ENSL.OB), Evergreen Solar (ESLR), First Solar (FSLR), GT Solar Int (SOLR), JA Solar (JASO), Kyocera (KYO), LDK Solar (LDK), MEMC Elect (WFR), Renesola (SOL), Satcon (SATC), SolarFun (SOLF), SunPower (SPWRA), SunTech (STP), Trina Solar (TSL), and Yingli (YGE). The preceding list is the common business name along the stock exchange acronym. Good performing solar stocks were led by SunPower which surged with nearly a 38 percent rise week to week, 8.75 points up to finish today at 32.04 a share. LDK Solar, Solarfun, SunTech, Trina Solar and Yingli rose by more than 20 percent. MEMC Electrical fell marginally and the other 20SSI stocks rose strongly. Besides the generally good news about all aspects of the solar energy marketplace, Reuters highlighted the sector with reports that SunPower had better-than-expected earnings while China’s LDK Solar raised its sales forecast. Reuters continued that this was the engine that drove the other large gains in the index. We can all hope that the index will perform well and be the industry signpost for the alternative energy community.
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Here is an article that goes back to some of the simplest and easiest energy savings. The reason that people keep talking about it is that it becomes a big community issue. So here is another entry in the argument over outdoor laundry drying.
Going Green - Air Drying Your Laundry Lowers Energy Bills and Helps the Earth
Energy costs are going up, according to a recent news bulletin. The demand for energy is also increasing. No matter what the energy prices are, you still need clean clothes. How can you lower your power bills? Air-drying laundry is one solution. This article describes the types of air-dryers and gives you practical tips on hanging laundry. View the complete article
Please note that we just run the article the way it is, no editing and just a little editorializing.
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Recently I have been looking at the future of renewable energy from the world’s oceans. The great sea snakes - Pelamis and Anaconda show incredible uniqueness despite a similar appearance that suggests similar technology on the casual first glance. There are a variety of surface and submerged float technologies that also show a wide variety in their applications of the simplest hydrogeneration concepts. There have been all kinds of great ideas and some of them are either presently generating energy as prototypes or as early commercial energy wave farms.
In North Ireland, a Marine Current Turbines prototype is being tested that is currently supplying energy for five hundred homes. They have installed two turbines in the tidal flow resulting in more than a megawatt of power. Their commercial version is planned for 2011 in Wales and will supply ten megawatts.
In France, TidalStream is testing a 3 meter (10 feet) scaffold holding six turbines generates one megawatt of alternative energy. Their commercialization project will be sixty meters (two hundred feet) tall and will generate ten megawatts from the hydraulic power of tidal channels. The advantage of this concept is that the ebb and flow of the tides is well understood in most places in the world and removes the variability found in wind and solar projects. A reliable energy source is a strong lobbying point for future funding of this technology. On the downside is the huge costs of developing these concepts, the huge costs of constructing them in locations for which there is much competition for their use, and the huge costs of maintaining these projects in some of the most noxious environments on earth. Like many other technologies, their greatest challenge is to move from interesting projects to planned projects. There is a possible future for any or all of these concepts as the megaprojects that millions will rely on. Time will tell.
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A flexible water-filled rubber tube that generates electricity from ocean waves, could be producing cheap, clean energy within five years. View the complete article
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In another post, I made some observations about the Pelamis Wave Energy Converter and Anaconda Wave Energy Converter. Detractors of this technology point out that the undulating motion is eventually destructive and the source of great maintenance costs. Some doubt that the problem of keeping the corrosive ocean water out of the works can be solved in this form of technology.
Another concept uses the classic model of converting wave energy into electricity. Anyone who has ever fished with a float can understand how this concept works. When a float is attached to a rod that drives a generator fixed below the surface, the smallest wave will produce a measurable response.
The latest entry into this technology niche has been developed by Trident Energy in the United Kingdom. Their Direct Energy Conversion Method prototype includes a hydrofoil float using modern fluid mechanics concepts that apparently provides 150% of the energy of traditional floats. The attached rods lift magnets past linear generator coils so that the components can be sealed against the water. The Trident Energy prototype will generate twenty kilowatts and testing in the Atlantic Ocean off the eastern English coast will run at least until 2010.
There are other prototypes that rely on floats that stay below the water’s surface to reduce the effect of weather and to control how the water movement affects their devices. The CETO system in Australia is expected to come online later in 2009. The prototype used the flow of ocean water to force hydraulic pumps to power turbines located on the shore where they are otherwise unaffected by ocean conditions. The installation is expected to produce 50 megawatts with a five hectare (12.4 acre) array of underwater floats.
AWS Ocean Energy is developing the Archimedes Wave Swing™ in the United Kingdom. The Archimedes Wave Swing™ maintains a position at least six meters (twenty feet) below the surface, The mechanism consists of two sections that move relative to each other to compress fluids as a wave passes and release the pressure on passing of the wave trough. The fluid flows through a generator and each unit should provide the power for 550 homes.
These concepts are related to ideas that have been considered for decades and are finally being considered for widespread commercialization.
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I wrote some observations about the Pelamis Wave Converter which powers about 1500 homes in Portugal. Perhaps some of these other scientific concepts will be used to power homes around the world. Another European concept follows the snake paradigm as well.
Like Pelamis, the prototype was created and tested in the United Kingdom. The prototype is called the Anaconda. Unlike the pelamis, a sea snake, anacondas are river snakes, famously brought to us in recent horror movies of the same name. However, the Anaconda Wave Energy Converter is the licensed prototype of Checkmate Seaenergy Ltd. Their concept is a water-filled rubber tube that captures the energy passing around it to turn a turbine in its stern. The Anaconda will ne seven meters wide and two hundred meters long. Current estimates show that the Anaconda will power twice as many homes as the Pelamis. The market for this prototype is locations where the waves have an average power of 25 megawatts per meter. This force can found at many locations on the west coasts of every continent and Checkmate expects commercialization by 2014.
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The incredible power in great bodies of water has been felt by anyone who has ever been in or on the water or seen a marine storm. Every year, the hurricane and typhoon seasons wreak havoc on shorelines and anything that stands in their path. The energy, like most energy that we are faced with on Mother Earth, has its birth in the sun. Between the climate related changes in large bodies of water and the tidal flow that pounds beaches and surf plains twice a day, huge amounts of water move closer and further away, up and down, all day and night just outside most of the greatest populations in the world.
In recent decades, science has searched for ways to use this alternate, renewable energy constructively. Many designs can trace their genesis back to the seventies when scientists were warning us that industrialization was bringing on the next ice age. This summer, many scientists brought those designs to the water and are attempting to show the practical applications of their concepts. While solar panels look generally the same to the untrained eye and wind turbines usually follow either horizontal or vertical formats, these designs are varied and the purpose of many are difficult determine at first glance.
Scientists are searching for ways to harness the estimated petawatt (add fifteen zeros) per hour that may be available according to the World Energy Council. To date, there is only one operational renewable energy project in the world. This is Portugal’s Pelamis Wave Energy Converter, originally called the Ocean Power Delivery. Developed by the Pelamis Wave Energy Ltd. is the commercial breakthrough of the industry with four units of 150 meters (500 feet) each consisting of jointed steel structures holding hydraulic generators that flex as waves pass through it to produce up to three megawatts. Recent contracts for two locations in the United Kingdom have been signed and there is interest in other locations in the world. Pelamis is aptly named for a species of sea snake.
I will return to this interesting subject another time;
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Welcome to PICogeneration! We look forward to helping you and working with you in the alternate energy community. Please post your ideas, comments, questions, or concerns.
We promise your ideas will be treated with respect, your comments will be considered by their target, the answers to your questions can be found here among the community, and your concerns will receive a response.
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A bid to produce green power on a commercial scale using heat from subterranean rocks suffers a major setback as the well ruptures . . . View the complete article
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Electric car performance is being held up by limits to the amount of power that can be stored on board, but a new battery that breathes air could provide a solution. View the complete article
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I just wanted to put this out there for comment. Doesn’t this seem like a scare story? It seems that the author lacks any ability to think outside the box, but what do you think? For one thing there are many scientists who think we are approaching an era of global cooling. Aren’t we more likely to build an orbital power generation project that is designed in such a way that it doesn’t change the sun’s effects on the the earth?
Plans to cool the planet by creating a sunshade could cut the amount of electricity generated by solar power . . . View the complete article
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While we can make decisions for our own homes or businesses, but what do we do about infrastructure projects? Private business makes many of the decisions for their own purposes but there is always a time when an appeal comes to some government for some public involvement. How do we decide what policies or initiatives to back. Here are some important beginning questions/
How do you choose between a wilderness and a power station? The tough choices associated with large-scale renewable energy projects are dividing the green movement . . . View the complete article
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The search for new ways to store power is going in all sorts of directions. This is some news on the genetic science that affects our work.
Genetically engineered viruses that assemble into electrodes have been used to make miniature rechargeable batteries for the first time . . . View the complete article
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Greedy electronic devices could treble their energy consumption without more incentives to use energy-saving technology, according to a study. View the complete article
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I was looking at the history of solar energy on another site and was struck by the fact that part of Albert Einstein’s Nobel Prize winning work led to our use of solar power.
I also saw an article on do-it-yourself projects that looked good, but hopefully there will be more articles soon.
One thing that I don’t see too often is the use of passive solar energy or nearly passive solar energy. Solar heating is an example. While I saw some information in the history article, there doesn’t seem to be a lot of help for that kind of projects. We know that black pipes attached to old window frames makes a very inexpensive way to boost the existing heating in your house but I would like to see more about these techniques. What do you think?
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I was glad to see that there is some good news about the mess we are facing in the transmission of electricity from these large megaprojects. We keep building huge plants that destroy so much - whether it is a hydroelectric system, coal fired or nuclear plant - there is a huge environmental cost and then we find there is a huge problem with the transmission system. It appears that as deregulation has taken over in the last decade or so, the transmissioin system has been falling apart. Here is a bit of good news about this chaos.
National grids will struggle if power generation shifts from large generators to millions of renewable sources with variable output – but tying these together as a single entity could solve the problem. . . View the complete article
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I found this an interesting article:
The world’s oceans and seas hold an awesome amount of power, but effective ways to harness it have proved elusive – until now
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I got a little off track in my last note when I started writing about David Letterman and Julia Roberts so I thought I better get right back at it with something as thought-provoking but more to the point. I went off track when I was trying to point out how important the condition of the panels is. No matter what price you pay, make sure that the product is fully warrantied so that you can check their quality and return them if you are not satisfied. Most often a visual check is all that you need. You should also be able find out what their efficiency. This is the measure of how well the panel converts the power in the photons hitting the panel into the electricity that you can use.
One concern is that low-cost solar panels may be used. While panels seldom have problems due to wearing out, they may be damaged in more subtle ways due to the way in which they were removed from service. These demolition issues are usually not repairable. One of the most common problems is burned out diodes. Used panels should always be tested before purchase. If a circuit indicates that a diode repair is required, you will need to decide if you can or if you want to take on the repair. A similar decision must be made if there are loose connections which is another common problem with used solar panels.
At any rate, you can find great deals on complete solar projects at www.picogeneration.com
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I was looking a few websites for cheap solar panels and thought I would pass along what I found. It can be very interesting to try to find cheap solar panels.
One of the first lessons I learned was that you need to check into the companies who say they have the best product at low cost because of some special aspect of their business. Having seen quite a variety of panels from many suppliers, I have to say that I have never found that the best products are inexpensive. There always seems to be trade offs when you are looking for the best deal and the trade offs are usually either quality or price. I have seen panels that were marked 10% off that looked like Letterman had dropped them of the roof of the Ed Sullivan Theatre. You wouldn’t have wanted to pay anything to haul those away to the dump.
When I think of the Letterman show, I often think of Julia Roberts. Now I wouldn’t mind passing along the ways that I find her beautiful but for the purpose of this message, I just thought I would try to create some connection between my research and one of Dave’s faves.
Basically, I look for panels that are designed, built, and delivered by a proven company, just as I know a Julia Roberts performance is a proven product. Well, that is probably the worst note ever written, but I hope you enjoyed the thought. Anyway, have a look at www.picogeneration.com to check out some great deals!
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Press Release: PICOGENERATION BEGINS CANADIAN OPERATIONS
PICOGENERATION BEGINS CANADIAN OPERATIONS
CONSUMER CONCERNS ABOUT UTILITIES CREATES NEED FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY ALTERNATIVES
PICogeneration begins its Canadian operations on June 15, 2009 from Edmonton, Alberta in response to utility concerns by consumers. Recent political statements throughout North America can be traced to the growing concerns of home owners and business owners alike. This political climate comes at the same time as technological advances in the renewable energy industry.
For decades, consumers have been searching for solutions that make sense to them. Too often they have approached traditional engineering companies and been trapped in the consulting process. Too often they have turned to the government for assistance in meeting their family or small business needs and been told to use their own resources. Finally, there are technologies that can be installed by the do-it-yourselfer or with the assistance of contractors. Finally, the government has announced a program that provides upfront assistance and an immediate cost benefit. Finally, governments across North America have announced net metering programs and other incentives that allow each consumer to control the generation of small amounts of local power economically.
North America was focused on renewable energy in the fall of 2008 as the American election drew massive media attention. At the same time Canadian politicians were dealing with pressure from all sides due to energy issues such as royalties, incentives, infrastructure, and, of course, the environment. By the end of the fall, media focus had switched to the worldwide economic crisis but there remained a strong interest in alternative energy. We all wanted to know the ways that North America would use renewable energy to help us out of this crisis and lead to an economic revival of industry in North America.
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PICogeneration is a small business enterprise with expertise in engineering and technology for geothermal, solar, and wind powered energy projects. We also deal with a wide range of energy saving devices. For more information about PICogeneration or renewable energy, contact Robert Laporte.
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