The crisis is not how much electric power we have, but where it comes from. Coal plants and Nuclear? That's no good. Those methods are polluting all the corners of the globe. Is this the future we will leave the next generation?
There are solutions to this though. Solar seems to be the most accessible form of clean renewable energy to date. It is fairly cheap, produces no pollution and is one way to create a decentralized energy grid.
What is a decentralized energy grid? Ah ha, now that's the million dollar question. What we have now is a centralized grid which is not very stable. Storms can knock down transmission lines leaving many in the dark. What then is the alternative you may ask. If you had solar panels on your roof, wind turbines or geothermal in your back yard, you would be getting your power from on site. That is the alternative.
When more people create power for them selves at home, it will strengthen the grid already in place. For example if you create excess power (more than you need) the extra could flow back into the grid powering your community when enough people do the same. In times of power outages this could mean your community could continue as if nothing even happened. Many are indeed doing just that, and energy independence is their reward. Are you ready for energy independence? I sure am.
Solar As One of Many Solutions
Photovoltaic Cells, the main component of solar panels furnish electricity from direct and sometimes indirect sun light.
Many countries around the world are beginning to implement solar panels on residential buildings and municipalities. The benefits for the home owner are quite apparent. Lower Power bills and power during power outages are two main ones.
A basic home solar installation is quite simple. They include:
Solar Panels
Batteries to store excess energy
Charge controllers to avoid over charging the batteries
Wire
A cautionary note..
Electricity can be dangerous if not respected, never work on live wires, do your homework and always know when to call for help.
Setting up your own solar power system can be quite rewarding, both in monetary ways and in satisfaction and piece of mind in a natural disaster. Granted you may have to spend a pretty penny to get started but the money you will save on your power bill should be more than enough to offset the cost within a few years if not within 6 months to a year.
Check out our section on Solar. SORRY NOT CREATED YET STAY TUNED.