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The Many Ways You Can Go Solar

These days, there are more ways than ever to go solar with your home or business. Through advancements in science and technology, there are a variety of products that you can purchase, for either residential or commercial use, to help reduce your energy costs and protect our world. Going solar is also now more affordable than it ever has been, with financing and packages to fit any budget. If you live in a place that receives a lot of sunshine year round, like Hawaii, solar products can be a great option for you. As an example, let’s explore the many ways you can go solar in Hawaii.

Probably the most popular and well-known of solar products are the solar electric photovoltaic systems, more commonly known as solar panels. These panels/grids are attached to the roof of your home or business structure(s) to capture solar energy. This energy is then converted into electricity that will power your home or business’s appliances. How much solar energy you will be able to utilize depends upon the size and age of the home or building, the number of appliances needing power and the usage of those appliances on a daily basis. For times when the sun is not out, such as during a storm or at night, the option of net metering can be applied. Net metering is the ability to receive retail credit for the electricity that you produce from solar energy. That credit can then be forwarded back to your utility meter in the form of electricity, to be used whenever needed. You can also purchase a backup battery to provide an extra source of electricity. Going solar in Hawaii, and other sunny places, is a smart and resourceful decision.

Solar hot water heaters are another great way to employ the sun’s power. Similar to solar panels, a solar hot water system is comprised of an arrangement of solar collectors that are mounted on a roof. It is important that these collectors be placed in spots where they will be exposed to as much seasonal sunlight as possible to attain the maximum amount of energy. These collectors obtain solar energy and then use that to heat the water. This water can be used for bathing, cooking, laundry, heating of pools and any other tasks that require hot water. Solar hot water heaters are successful in almost any climate- this makes it a wonderful option not only for those going solar in Hawaii, but anywhere else as well.

Whether you want to start small or go big, going solar in Hawaii or in any other location, now has options to choose from that will fit your needs and budget.

Learning About The Benefits of Hawaii Solar Energy

If you are interested in saving the environment from pollution and human destruction, or if you are instead interested in saving some money out of pocket, and you are a resident of the state of Hawaii, then it may interest you to hear a bit about all of the incredible financial and environmental benefits provided by Hawaii solar energy. Solar energy is a simple yet effective process whereby an individual’s personal electrical devices are powered through the natural energy provided by the sun, rather than through power generated at a power plant or energy plant. In order to better understand all of the different benefits, it is first important to understand how you can go about setting up your home, office, and automobile with the proper equipment for Hawaii solar energy.

Setting up your personal electrically powered devices with the proper equipment in order to harness solar energy is a relatively simple and easy process. The easiest method for utilizing solar energy is to have solar panels installed on your home or on your car. In the past, equipping your car or home with solar panels was costly and took time and energy in order to get the job done properly; now, it is as easy as can be to go about finding and purchasing solar panels and having them installed on your home or automobile. Solar panels are now both cheap and easy to use – once you have had panels installed on your home or car, they will take effect immediately and will constantly absorb the sun’s light in order to provide your home with energy. Given how cheap and easy solar panels are to install, it shouldn’t be hard to believe that countless people are choosing them as their preferred method to receive Hawaii solar energy.

The benefits of shifting your home and car into the realm of solar energy through solar panels should be fairly clear and straightforward. First of all, since you will be generating your own energy you will no longer need to receive electrical power from the power company. As a result, you will immediately begin to save money on the cost of energy in that area through conversion to Hawaii solar energy. The amount of money which you will save through energy savings alone will be tremendous. Best of all, you can also sell any excess or extra power which you have stored up at the end of the month back to the energy company at a reasonable price – meaning that your solar panels will actually end up earning you money in the long term.

Apart from the financial benefits which solar panels and Hawaii solar energy provide, there are also the environmental factors to consider. Principally, if you begin to use solar energy in your home and automobile, you will become a part of a much larger initiative which is aimed at clean forms of renewable and non-destructive forms of energy which do not place a burden on the environment. There are several other forms of clean and renewable energy which are currently being used around the world, but solar energy is the only method which has been made directly available to home owners on an affordable level.

The Financial Benefits Of Going Solar

Forty years ago, when solar energy began to be more widely viewed as a viable alternative energy source, it cost a small fortune to purchase solar panels. Only a few handfuls of people were actually able to utilize this valuable resource. Now, things couldn’t be more different- the price of solar products is more reasonable than ever before. Thanks to incredible solar tax credits and incentives and tremendous energy cost savings, more of the public can afford to go green. On top of all of that, having solar gear as a part of your home can add tremendous equity to it, if and when you decide to sell. Here is a more detailed look at some of these benefits.

Let’s first cover the tax credits and incentives offered by federal and state governments. These tax benefits will vary from state to state, so be sure to check the specifics for your location. Using Hawaii as an example, the federal government issues a 30% tax credit with the purchase of an eligible solar product. Qualifying merchandise includes solar panel packages, solar water heaters and solar hybrid illumination systems. It is important to note that solar pool heating gear is not entitled to this tax credit in most states. Another important fact about this federal tax credit is that if you do not use the full 30% that tax year, the difference can be rolled over to next year, so you will not lose any of your benefits. This is in effect until 2016.The state tax credit for Hawaii for a solar water heater is 35% or $2250 (whichever is the least amount). For solar panels in Hawaii, there is also a 35% tax credit or $5ooo (again whichever is the lesser sum). Furthermore, utility companies offer their customers rebates when they purchase solar products. It is true that the cost of installing solar merchandise is more expensive upfront than the traditional power sources, but the incredible solar tax credits and incentives more than help to make up for those expenses.

One of the other great perks of using solar resources for your electricity needs are the savings you can accrue on your energy bills. While it does take some time before you will see these profits, that amount of time compared to the lifespan of the product and the potential savings you can earn, is worth the wait. On average for solar panels, it takes 4-6 years before you will have recouped the cost of the initial purchase and installment. For a solar water heater, the timeframe is about 3 years. However, solar products have a lifespan of 30 years or more so you can reap the monetary rewards for 24-27+ years afterward.

In addition to solar tax credits and long-term energy bill savings, you can also gain equity in your home by having solar resources installed. It is estimated that for every $1000 you save on your energy bill, your home equity increases by 20%. Over time, that percentage can add up to a remarkable value.

There are many more benefits, financial and other, when you invest in solar sources. The sooner you go green, the sooner you can start to reap these incredible rewards.

The Advantages Of Solar Energy

The use of solar energy is on the rise. There are many advantages of solar energy. Read on to learn more about what some of them are.

Environmental reasons
Solar, or photovoltaic, energy does not produce any greenhouse gases. The emission of greenhouse gases in the form of smoke or gas into the atmosphere causes pollution. Solar energy is generated by harnessing the sun’s radiation and does not create any chemical by products.

It’s free
One of the most popular advantages of solar energy is that it’s free, with the exception of installation and maintenance. My many states offer tax credits to off-set the installation off solar panels. Louisiana offers the most generous credit, followed by Hawaii.

You can live off the grid
Most people live on the grid; they are connected to their state’s energy grid, and it powers their homes, offices etc. For people who live in remote or rural locations not having to been connected to the grid for power is a big help. Installing power lines to remote areas can be cost prohibitive. Power lines to those areas can be difficult to maintain, because they can be frequently cut. It is also possible for people who live in cities to live off the grid. More and more are choosing to do so for a more self-reliant lifestyle.

Solar does not start geopolitical conflicts or subject to price volatility
There have been a number of conflicts over fossil fuels, oil in particular. No one is able to control the power of the sun, in can be harnessed from numerous locations and there is an unlimited supply. It is a unique source of energy that is not susceptible to price manipulations and politics. The price of many fossil fuels, such as oil, has more than doubled in the past decade, as a result of conflicts and price manipulation. At the same time, the cost per watt of solar energy has been cut in half due to improved technology and economies of scale. It is predicted to become even cheaper.

It creates jobs
Another one of the advantages of solar energy is that it creates jobs. According to the European Interactive Advertising Agency (EIAA), the European solar industry has produced 100,000 jobs to date. Solar jobs can vary widely. They include research and development, making, installing, monitoring and maintenance of solar panels. It is estimated that solar power accounts for only 4% of the world’s energy, so there is ample opportunity for further job creation.

It doesn’t cause ecosystem destruction
Most land based fossil fuel operations required massive tree removal. Underwater drilling projects can cause damage to coral reefs and disrupt marine life. Ecosystem destruction can come if a variety of forms; through standard extraction methods or even accidents. An extreme example is the 2010 British Petroleum oil disaster that occurred in the Gulf of Mexico. Eleven people died and 780 thousand cubic meters of petroleum was poured in the water.

It has a bright future (no pun intended)
Solar technology is constantly evolving and improving. Europe is leading the way in research and development. It used to be costly, cumbersome and inefficient. Solar is now becoming more inexpensive, more available and more efficient.

There are many advantages of solar energy. It is coming soon to a home near you.

BONTERRA SOLAR REACHING FOR THE SKY TO INSTALL PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS

Completes State-of-the Art High-rise Roof Solar Power Project

Bonterra Solar has completed the installation of one of the largest scale photovoltaic systems in Hawaii on the roof of an 11-story condominium near Punchbowl Crater.

HONOLULU — Bonterra Solar has completed the installation of a large-scale photovoltaic (PV) solar system on the roof of an 11-story condominium near Punchbowl Crater.

It is the second high-rise solar project for Bonterra, one of Hawaii’s fastest growing solar companies. But it won’t be its last.

“The rooftops of many residential and commercial high-rises are perfect places to install large PV systems,” said Bonterra founder and principal Andrew Yani. “The roofs are large, flat and strong.”

Bonterra has several high-rise projects on the way and is actively looking for more.

“Less than 10 percent of condominiums and apartment buildings in Honolulu have gone solar,” said Blair Herbert, Bonterra principal and head of the company’s Commercial Division. “It’s time for condo owners to get in on the solar boom in the islands.”

Herbert said that over a week and a half, Bonterra Solar installed 160 American-made, state- of-the-art SolarWorld panels on the Crown Thurston condo on Spencer Street in Makiki. That’s enough to generate 40 kilowatts of electricity. As an added bonus for the condo owners, Bonterra teamed up with Pacific Industrial Coatings to first apply a new membrane coating to the roof and both the PV installation and new roof was covered by financing.

“The apartment owners had zero out of pocket expenses on this project,” Herbert said. “The cost of putting in a PV system in a high-rise is not sky high. There are all kinds of financing options. And each high-rise project helps Hawaii get a little closer to meeting its clean energy goals.”

Crown Thurston building manager Rey Patio said the project was a win/win for everyone.

“When it comes to major improvements, my concerns are cost, quality, time and how it will affect my residents,” Patio said. “Bonterra exceeded all our expectations and treated our property and residents with respect. The planning, the workmanship and service exemplify why Bonterra is a leader in Hawaii’s solar industry.”

Patio said the Crown Thurston project went a step further when it comes to going green.

“The solar panels came from the mainland protected by wooden pallets,” he said. “We recycled those wooden pallets, turning them into planters for our residents to grow their own produce and spices on the condo grounds.”

Hawaii came in seventh in the country in the Solar Energy Industries Association’s “2012 Top 10 Solar States” and it gets a greater percentage of its electricity from solar than any other state.

Bonterra Solar Hawaii is a leading installer of cost-effective residential and commercial solar systems that reduce electricity costs and maximize returns on clean energy investments with little, if any, upfront expenses. In 2010, Bonterra was chosen to be the solar installation company for the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands’ Kaupuni Village, the first net-zero energy community in the nation. Bonterra also was selected by Gentry Homes as its exclusive installer of photovoltaic systems on new homes.

Learn more about Bonterra Solar

NEWS RELEASE

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Contact:
Russell Pang
Communications Pacific
Phone: 808-543-3591
Mobile: 808-382-7023

Take Part In Renewable Energy With Photovoltaic Systems

Photovoltaic systems in Hawaii are no longer a novelty. Many families are choosing to provide the energy in their homes through solar cells. Now that the early adopter stage for solar energy has become general acceptance, homeowners can now install systems from firms with several years of experience. The bugs have been worked out and now photovoltaic (PV) systems can be installed with the same degree of standards as any electric or gas centric home.

Because of the general acceptance of photovoltaic systems in Hawaii, having homes needs met by renewable energy is a reality. Families really can play a part in lessening the burden on the planet’s limited fuel resources. If your family takes part in the movement, you will not only know that your home is environmentally friendly, but your neighbors will know as well, because of the distinctive solar panels.

Part of the benefits of having solar panels is that you do not have to sacrifice aesthetics in order to be ecologically responsible. You live in Hawaii, which means that you live in one of the most beautiful places on earth. The installation of solar panels will not mar your little part of paradise. In fact, many people love the gorgeous blue of the solar panels. The origin of the color itself is interesting. Actually, solar panels are made to be black, because that is the best color for a sunlight receptor. Anything that is not black is reflecting part of the spectrum. This is what gives anything its hue. If something is white, it is reflecting the entire spectrum, and so is not a suitable color for a light receiver. The blue coloring of solar panels is actually a reflection of the sky. The reason lakes are blue is the same reason that solar panels are blue. This is why solar panels so well into the décor of a home.

An important fact to know is, for many homes, even if the entire roof is covered with solar panels, the system may not generate the same level of energy as you are currently using. The installation of solar panels generally requires a change in energy consumption as well. The company you use for installing your solar system will be able to advise you on how to conserve energy so that you may work in harmony with your new energy system.

Some homeowners worry that their home does not face the south, which is the optimum direction in the northern hemisphere for solar panels to capture the sunlight. Your installation firm understands that solar panels look best when mounted in the direction of the planes of the roof. You will be able to deal with the associated reduction in energy that non-south facing panels offer.

Solar panels are also very rugged. Although they are made of glass, the material is a tempered glass designed to resist the elements including hailstones and the other elements of Mother Nature.

If saving the planet in this way is attractive to you, the first step is to contact your local renewable energy company and setup a consultation. They will give you the information you need to make a decision concerning photovoltaic systems in Hawaii for your home.

Save Money And Become Independent By Installing Solar Panels

Today, with cost of living increasing and economies becoming more interdependent, many people are looking for ways to cut down expenses, and become independent of uncontrollable costs. Solar panels are one way to achieve both of these goals. Not only do the panels let you tap into a natural, sustainable energy source, but between the solar tax credits offered by the government and the money you save on electricity bills, they often pay for themselves very quickly.

As traditional sources of fuel are being depleted, rising costs and increasingly environmentally invasive procedures are becoming more common. People often find themselves paying more for the same product they have used for many years; countries may become increasingly dependent on other nations. Companies frequently must go to greater lengths and costs — both economically and environmentally — to deliver their final product. In this setting, it is not surprising that people would look for alternative energy sources. Solar panels, with their low environmental impact and guaranteed results, are one appealing option.

Learn how you can benefit from solar tax credits with Bonterra Solar.

Solar panels use sunlight — one of the most safe, renewable, and consistent energy sources available — to produce electricity. The fact that the government offers people solar tax credits for making use of this power source speaks to the fact that solar energy is clean, economical, and smart. People who use solar energy aren’t subject to the rising costs, dwindling supply, and logistics of transportation that are usually associated with more traditional fuel sources. Installing solar panels can lead to money saved, and in some cases even money earned.

The initial cost of solar panels can be thought of as an investment that quickly pays itself off. Some people are deterred by the price of the panels themselves as well as the cost of installation. However, this price is small compared to the savings that come later. Generally, solar panels pay themselves off in one to five years, depending on the climate you live in, how the panels are installed, and what your energy usage is. If you are extremely conscientious and conservative, you probably won’t see the savings from solar panels immediately. However, if you have a large family, or are a little careless with your energy usage, you will probably see results within a few years.

In the meantime, government tax credits can help offset the initial costs of a solar electric system. The federal government offers solar tax credits for 30 percent of the cost of the system, including installation labor expenses, provided that the system provides a certain proportion of the total energy used by the household or building. Individual states also offer varying solar tax credits or rebates. In some locations, excess power generated by solar panels can even be sold back to the utility company.

If you are thinking about installing solar panels, it can be tempting to procrastinate doing the work or spending the money. However, with government incentives like solar tax credits and all the other benefits of having your own power source, there is no better time than the present to upgrade to solar energy.

Preserving the Earth Using Solar Energy

Over 8 million quads of solar energy hit the entire earth each year and only around 400 quads are harvested and used as an alterative source of power. One quad of energy is equal to about 8 billion gallons of gasoline. Due to dwindling natural resources, the need and demand for alternative energy has increased significantly in the past few years. Solar panels in Hawaii have helped to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and are highly supported by the federal government. Covering up to 30% of the cost of the panels and installation, tax incentives and credits provide great motivation for switching to a clean energy source.

Vehicles and other modern conveniences cause greenhouse gas emissions, which are harmful to the environment. These gasses radioactively heat up the atmosphere, controlling the average temperature of the Earth. Carbon and methane emissions from the burning of fossil fuels, such as transportation and heating, are responsible for a large increase in greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere. The installation and use of about 20,500 solar panels in homes with average energy use can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by almost 4 million tons. Currently, solar power users have saved 35 million tons of carbon emissions from being released into the atmosphere, helping to protect and preserve the earth for future generations.

Not only is the suns energy beneficial to life all on earth, but also the installation and use of solar panels is virtually a one-time payment. The initial price of solar panels is caused by the panels themselves and the price of installation. The cost of fossil fuels comes form the harvesting, transportation and refinement of coal, natural gas, and oil from the earth. Many companies hold monopolies on the raw materials, obstructing smaller companies from affecting prices. The cost of installing solar panels in Hawaii can pay for itself in just over a year and save you about $900,000 over the course of 20 years.

Many suppliers of fossil fuels either hold a monopoly on the harvesting, refining, or transportation of the raw materials and what they create. With only a few companies controlling the sale and distribution, prices are often based on their needs, and smaller companies get lost. Not only is alternative energy a new field, allowing many companies to have a shot at success, but also it is harvested, controlled and used by the consumers themselves. Installing solar panels onto your home or office building can greatly reduce your monthly bills, maintenance needs and dependency on a fuel provider.

With the increased installation and use of solar panels in Hawaii, the cost of installation has been reduced and the effectiveness of the panels has increased. Solar power users help to save 75 million barrels of oil annually, showing the effectiveness of long lasting, low impact solar power. Supporting the clean and renewable energy movement can not only help you feel good about your energy consumption, but the minimal impact on the environment can help preserve and protect the earth. When you’re searching for an alternative energy source to support you, your family, or your business, solar power is one of the easiest and longest-lasting clean energy sources available.

Getting The Most Out Of Your Solar Energy System In Hawaii

If you live in Hawaii and don’t already have a solar energy system, you could benefit greatly from getting one. Solar energy offers many advantages, both economical and environmental. Just as importantly, Hawaii’s climate and energy needs are perfectly suited to this technology. Here are some tips for getting started on your way to savings and energy independence with a solar Hawaii energy system.

Hawaii is practically the ideal location to set up a solar-powered energy system. In most parts of Hawaii, the annual number of days of sunshine exceeds 250. Because Hawaii is closer to the equator than the other states, its residents enjoy longer days, which translate into more hours of sunlight and more power generated. Furthermore, the cost of traditional, imported energy sources can be more than three times higher in Hawaii than it is on the mainland. Therefore, the location and climate of Hawaii make a solar energy system not just feasible, but preferable to traditional power sources. However, you still want to be careful to make sure you are getting the most out of your solar Hawaii energy system.

Even with the abundance of sunlight, it will be important to make sure that your solar Hawaii setup is optimized to be its most effective. First, for maximum sun exposure, solar panels should face south whenever possible. It is also important that the panels face true south, rather than magnetic south. If you have an east-west facing roof, you can still set up solar panels, but you will need a greater area to get the same result. The angle of incidence, which is the angle at which sunlight strikes the solar panels, is also important. The optimum angle for solar panels to be mounted at varies by latitude. For locations in the Hawaiian islands, at latitudes ranging from 18 and 22 degrees north, the ideal tilt is near 20 degrees. Following these guidelines ensures that you get the best results from your solar panels.

It is also important to get the most out of your solar panels financially. As mentioned before, incorporating solar power rather than paying for traditional power sources can save you a significant amount of money. Some energy companies may even pay for excess power generated, or store excess power for you to use later at no charge. On top of this, there are government tax credits and rebates that you can take advantage of. The federal government will give you a 30% tax credit if certain requirements are met; you can also quality for a generous solar Hawaii tax credit of 35%. With these tax credits, your solar energy system will pay itself off even sooner.

Living in Hawaii gives you plenty of incentive to switch to solar energy, without the drawbacks that people living in more northern states with harsher climates may face. Solar Hawaii energy systems are very effective, and offer an even greater return on your investment than those installed elsewhere. If you aren’t already enjoying the benefits of one, now is a great time to make the switch.

Harnessing The Sun’s Energy With Photovoltaic Solar Panels

Photovoltaic solar panels, and smaller-scale solar cells, are becoming a common sight and a part of many modern technologies. These solar energy units are gaining popularity because they are energy efficient, economical, and convenient. Solar panels essentially work by converting light into electricity, though the actual mechanics, and the conditions that maximize output, are a little more complicated.

Certain semiconducting materials, like silicon, display something known as the photoelectric effect. These materials are able to absorb photons of light; the resulting increase in energy in turn causes electrons to be emitted from the material. Devices like photovoltaic solar panels incorporate these materials, and use electric fields to direct the released electrons to flow in one direction. So, when sunlight strikes these solar energy devices, an electric current is produced. Photovoltaic technology harnesses this current and has been used in a variety of devices, from calculators to satellites, since the first modern device was built half a century ago by Bell Labs.

Photovoltaic solar panels are a larger extension of this basic technology. Many solar cells are connected electrically, in what is called a module, and packaged into a frame. This whole unit is the solar panel. An inverter is used to convert the current from direct to alternating, which is what our electrical grids and household appliances use. To increase output, many solar panels can operate together, in what is called an array. These panels are often situated on rooftops to power homes and individual buildings, though they can be mounted on the ground, if space and lighting are sufficient. Extensive fields of solar panels can be used to provide power to much larger operations, like farms and military bases.

The size and number of photovoltaic solar panels needed to power a given location depends on factors besides the amount of power needed. The climate is an key consideration, since weather affects the amount of solar energy that can be harnessed. Looking at averages of the number of sunshine days or annual rainfall can help you determine if it’s necessary to have more solar panels, to get the most out of a limited number of sunny days, or if a smaller set of panels will be sufficient. The specifics of the site are also important. Solar panels are most effective when they are mounted at the right angle, to absorb the most incident sunlight. This angle varies by latitude and also (to a much smaller extent) by season. Southern-facing solar panels (for those living in the Northern Hemisphere) receive the most sunlight and are the most effective; if the site doesn’t have full exposure toward the south, more panels will be needed to achieve the same output.

Photovoltaic energy systems have a wide range of applications, and are increasingly being used in new technologies. Solar energy is clean and sustainable, and solar energy systems often return the original cost of investment on a very short time scale. Photovoltaic solar panels, in particular, are an exciting technology that we can expect to become even more widespread in the coming years.

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