Solar isn’t anything new. In fact, you’ve been using it in your everyday life, and you probably don’t even think about it. From the vast openness of space to our infrastructure, solar has changed the way we live.
We may not know all the services our government provides for us (The United States Board on Geographic Names – who knew?!), but one thing that you’ll notice with a sharp eye is that a lot of our government buildings are run on solar power. This is especially interesting because government often sets the tone for the future. Our government’s interest in solar energy displays the value of this energy source and saves citizens money.
Solar panels thrive in the sunlight, so this begs the questions: How do solar panels perform in colder months? Thankfully, solar panels only require sunlight, not heat. This means that solar panels are absolutely capable of powering your home during the winter. In fact, some solar panel users have reported higher solar panel output when there is snow since it can act as a reflective blanket for sunlight.
Ask Wanda: I’m ready to install solar power, but I expect I’ll be selling my home and moving to another one in the next few years. Is this even worth my money to do now, or should I wait until I’m in my next house?
Dear Making Moves,
When it comes to solar, there is no time like the present. It’s as simple as asking the question, “Do I want to start saving now or wait a while?” Why wouldn’t you want to start saving immediately on your electricity bill?
Finding a fun gift for everyone on your list can be tough, so Icon Solar is here to help you out—no cords attached! Solar powered presents are perfect for the techie, environmentalist or anyone in your life looking for a cool gift that won’t run up the electric bill. Here is a list of ten fun products you might even add to your own wish list!
#1 Solar Powered Christmas lights
Ditch the old tangled up pile of Christmas lights and switch to these fun, solar powered ones instead!
What could make Fiona the Hippo even more lovable? How about the fact that she relies on solar energy? The Cincinnati Zoo is the Greenest Zoo in America currently, thanks to the solar canopy that is installed above the parking lot. These panels make our zoo the largest publicly accessible urban solar array in the country! The parking lot produces 20 percent of the Cincinnati Zoo’s needed energy and generates additional solar power to send back to the utility company.
Cincinnati, or should we say Suncinnati? This solar mega-house may get EVEN bigger!
With the amount of energy we are consuming as a planet, countries are starting to lean away from nonrenewable sources of energy such as gas and coal. Solar power is one of the leading options as the energy source of the future.
So which countries are leading the world in solar power usage?
Dear Wanda,
OK, what is the deal with solar panels? I’ve heard you can save money with them, and they can help the environment, but I don’t know anyone who has them. Do you?
Sure, I get that! Solar panels aren’t new, but they are becoming more common. In fact, over the next five years, Ohio alone is expected to install hundreds of kilowatts (kw) of solar power, which is more than six times the amount installed in the past five years. Although solar might not be new, you may not spot any in your neighborhood. This leaves open the opportunity for you to be a trendsetter.
If your neighbors don’t have solar power, look to the stars for inspiration. By that I don’t mean pay closer to your horoscope—also don’t look at the sun for too long—check out some of the biggest trendsetters of all, celebrities! Chances are, some of your favorite celebs have already invested.
Doing something different can be nerve-wracking. In fact, only about 2.5 percent of the population are made up of “Innovators.” Innovators, the title bestowed upon the sect of the population most willing to adapt technology, aren’t hard to identify. Their natural habitat is camping outside Apple waiting itching to get their hands on the latest iPhone release. Innovators and Early Adopters – the brave group following the innovators who compose 13.5 percent of the public – are risk-takers, but they usually stand to reap most of the rewards. Solar panels aren’t brand new technology, but you may still be concerned about being the first of your family and friends to test the benefits.
Dear Wanda,
Solar panels sound great, but seriously…are people in Ohio really on board? Will all my neighbors think I’m a little crazy if I start installing panels?
Thanks,
Skeptical Midwesterner