By Jason Livingston-the operator of www.GreenLivingRocks.com where you can learn how to make a solar panel, make a homemade windmill, and go green.

It seems like the recognition of using solar power is on the rise every day.  And folks are becoming more interested in how they can add solar energy to their lifestyle in affordable ways.  That is why solar panel kits are now available for a wide array of solar applications.  Here are a few of the solar panel kits that you can acquire.

One of the most reasonably priced kinds of solar panel kits to buy is a 45 watt model, for around $200.  It is large enough to run everyday home electronic equipment, like televisions and desktop computers, and even to power lighting.  It will even charge a 12v battery so you can store its electricity for use at night.  The technology is now progressive enough that the PV cells can generate electricity even on overcast days.  And its small size (about 36inches square) makes it simple to find a fitting location.  Kits usually include the panel or panels, mounting hardware and wiring.  A number of kits may include an inverter; otherwise you will have to obtain that separately.

Other kits develop on that fundamental concept of assembling the panels, mounting hardware and wiring for more specific applications. For instance, solar kits for power boats may include solar panels, and array and mounting hardware that is made from stainless steel or other materials that survive exposure to salt water.  They may also include tracking apparatus that will point the panels according to the sun’s position.

Kits intended for cabins may consist of the basic solar panels and wiring.  But they may use a post mounted array and hardware so that the panels can be placed in a clearing away from trees.  And the kits might additionally include a battery back up system for cabins that will be off the grid.

Solar panel kits designed for Recreational Vehicles start with a uncomplicated set up that provides basic power for lights and trickle charging the battery.  Yet luxury R.v.s that contain a lot of electrical gear, ranging from built-in global positioning systems to home theater systems, might necessitate a system as detailed and complicated as an off grid home.  And there are kits accessible for these extremes as well as many camper requirements in between

There seems to be a kit available for practically any solar panel you can think of for home, commercial or recreational use.  The best way to obtain them is to search on the web.  And the best way to decide on one is to evaluate their features and customer service.

The first thing to look at, before you ever consider converting to wind power, is the area where you live. A windmill solution obviously requires wind. More specifically you want wind speeds that exceed 8MPH on average. Even 8MPH is considered a low-wind-speed area for wind turbines. 12MPH average is ideal.

To start, take the time to look at the wind speed charts that fit your area:

If You Live in the USA: http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/oa/climate/online/ccd/wndspd.txt

If You Live in Canada: http://www.wunderground.com/global/Region/CN/WindSpeed.html

If You Live in the UK or Europe: http://www.xcweather.co.uk

If you live in Australia: http://www.wunderground.com/global/Region/AU/WindSpeed.html

Assuming that the average wind speed in your area is above 8MPH, then continue on to the other considerations listed below. If you don’t live in a suitable area, then you should consider a solar power conversion instead.

Wind Turbine Considerations

Once you’ve determined that wind power is suitable for your area there are a few other things you need to consider. Really this is just about asking some questions and then answering them. Taking the time to do so will ensure you choose a wind power system that fits. Especially if you are planning to live off the grid, you should take the time to answer these questions before you start.

Your Power Needs

The first thing that needs to be considered is your power needs. Are you simply looking to reduce your power bill with a single small windmill? Or, will you want to power your entire home?
If you’re looking to power your whole home, you should take the time to calculate your actual power requirements. If you take the time to download Earth 4 Energy, their guide comes with a calculator and instructions on how to do this (you’ll need this guide anyway).

Storing Power from Wind Turbines

From the answer to your first question you then need to consider building a storage system for your wind turbine. A simple array of batteries can be designed to store as little or as much power as needed.
If you’re only building a small wind power solution to reduce your power bills then this is likely less of a concern.
On the other hand if you’re looking to live off the grid, you will need to consider energy storage. You should use your calculation for your power needs to design this part of your system. Take into consideration how much power you will need to store and for how long.
If you have weeks where there is less wind than usual, ensure that you have a large enough battery array to compensate (or better yet work to reduce you energy needs by using high efficiency bulbs and appliances).

Having a Backup Plan

Finally, for those who plan to live entirely off the grid, you should consider your backup plan. For most of us consistent power is a requirement. Ensure that you design your wind turbine solution with a backup plan. Generally a small gas generator is enough to ensure you have power if something goes wrong.

Find ways to build your own solar panel and save on your electric bill.

Get the latest information on living green and start learning today.

For useful knowledge about the topic of traffic to website – read the web page. The time has come when concise information is really at your fingertips, use this possibility.