What You Should Know about Solar Energy for Schools Benefits

Published on: 10 November 2018 Last Updated on: 22 February 2020

The use of solar energy has grown by leaps and bounds in recent times, and now, you don’t just see it in residential or commercial buildings any longer – solar panel systems are now being utilised for more schools as well. The government encourages this growth and has even come up with its own form of support for schools and other educational institutions wanting to go solar. There are indeed a lot of benefits brought by having your own solar energy, but what else can you expect from it? How can you make sure that your solar investment is fully utilised? Here’s everything you need to know about solar energy for schools: benefits, expectations, and more.

How you can save on expenses – and earn:

With solar energy, there are three ways through which you can save and earn on your expenses. One way is with your actual usage of energy from the grid. Since you produce your own energy, your energy usage from the grid will go down, thus resulting in lower electricity bills. The second way is through what you can earn based on the electricity your panels can produce. This the Feed In Tariff. The third way through which you can save and make money is when you get paid for whatever electricity isn’t used by your school. This is referred to as the Export Tariff.

Will the sun be enough?

This is one of the more common questions asked by many, and the answer is a simple yes. There is enough sun, even in the UK, for your solar panel system to work – and work well, at that. Although bright sunlight is always best in regard to solar energy, your solar panel system will continue to produce energy even when the days are cloudy. For every 1 kilowatt of solar panel installed, you can expect to produce an average of between 750 to 900-kilowatt hours of energy. If you are located in the south, your system will generate even more.

Is it the best solution for my school?

Granted, while a solar energy system is generally a good and worthwhile investment, you still have to be sure that it’s the right solution for your school, as experts in solar in Cheshire like Atlantic Renewables attest. Many of the schools in the UK are suitable, however. For instance, does your school have a roof that is flat or pitched and is the roof facing south-east, south-west, or south? If it is, that’s already good news. Also, if you don’t have any buildings or trees shadowing your roof, this is a good sign as well. You should also have a strong roof, although most roofs are already strong enough to hold solar panels.

How to pay for it:

There are different things you can do to help you pay for a solar panel system for your school, one of which is help from your local education authority. You can ask them to provide you with the capital you need at a very low or even zero rate of interest. Another way through which you can finance your solar panel system is to go to your local council. Community funding is also possible, and you may be surprised at how many communities have already worked together to bring a solar energy system to fruition for schools.

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8 Tips For Choosing Solar Panels For Outdoor Activity

There is no need to carry your heavy, bulky generator anymore. With solar panels from the market, you can now find a way to have a hassle-free trip when you go out. Solar panels for the outdoors are the best thing that you can bring along with you because they will be able to power up your devices while you are outdoors. How To Select The Solar Panels For Outdoor Activity? Solar panels are great for powering small devices like cell phones, GPS units, and hand-held radios. Solar panels can be used for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The solar panels for outdoor activities must be able to withstand some rough handling. 1. Choose The Right Size And Shape For Storage Ease When you're looking for solar panels for outdoor activity, the first thing you'll want to consider is the size and shape of the panel. The most common size is 15 inches by 15 inches, but you can also find smaller and larger sizes. If you're planning on using a solar panel in a backpack while camping, smaller size is easier to carry. However, a larger size may be needed if you plan to use the panel in a stationary location or on a boat. 2. Get Flexible Solar Panels When choosing a solar panel, you need to think about your situation and how you will use it. The solar panels for outdoor lights should always be flexible. Unless you are not going to select the portable one, you cannot get the full advantages. For example, if you're going to be camping, you want to make sure you get something that's small, lightweight, and portable. Camping flexible solar panels at Sunyee are going to be the best option for outdoor activity. Flexible solar panels are the best choice for outdoor activity. The reason is that flexible solar panels are very light, strong, waterproof, and can be bendable to about 180 degrees. This is the coolest thing about flexible solar panels for the outdoors. In the past, you could only find rigid solar panels for sale. They were heavy, noticeable, and not very portable. Due to the advancement in technology, flexible solar panels are now made. They are very light, portable, and durable. The best part is that they can be folded and carried around easily. 3. Understand The Different Types Of Portable Solar Panels Just like any product, there are different types of portable solar panels to choose from. Each of these comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding them is the key to choosing the right one for your needs. The first thing which you should consider while selecting solar panels for outdoor and their capacity. This is measured in watts. The higher the capacity, the faster your gadgets will charge. The second thing to consider is the material used to make the panel. Generally, portable solar panels are made of silicon and aluminum. Each of these comes with its own pros and cons. Silicon panels are more expensive than aluminum panels but are also more durable. Aluminum panels are cheaper but are not as durable. There are many different kinds of solar panels to choose from. You can choose between monocrystalline, polycrystalline, along with thin film solar panels. Monocrystalline panels have higher energy efficiency with a lower amount of weight than polycrystalline panels. Thin film solar panels are the lightest, but they are also the least efficient. 4. It Should Be Compatible With Your Electronics Another thing you need to consider when choosing a solar panel is if it's compatible with your electronics. There is a wide range of solar panels for outdoor available on the market, and each of them may be compatible with different electronics. If you own a smartphone or tablet that is not compatible with solar power, you can always buy one with a bigger capacity. Most solar panels are compatible with multiple devices; just remember to check the specifications before you buy one. 5. Check How Long It Takes To Charge And Remains Without Charge If you are going to use a solar panel for outdoor activity, say camping, hiking, fishing, etc. The battery should be able to charge fully, which means at least 8 hours (for those with a low-capacity battery, it is better to bring a solar charger). But it is better to have solar panels outdoors that can remain at no charge for over a month, which means the battery should be at least 20,000mAh capacity. When purchasing replacement solar panels for outdoor lighting, the battery capacity is the first thing that you must check. For example, small solar panels for outdoor lighting are more like a decorative part, so when you are starting to add these to your garden, you should always understand what the life span is and how long it will take to get the full charge. 6. Consider the price Solar panels are a great option for powering outdoor gear and cutting down on the costs of outdoor activities. You can power all kinds of things with a solar panel. The biggest concern is being able to power what you actually want to power. You'll need to know the wattage of the device before you can start looking for solar panels. The cost of solar panels is one of the main concerns of people who want to install solar but are not sure if it is worth the investment. The price of solar panels and related equipment can put a big dent in your pocket. But it is also true that solar power is one of the most cost-effective ways to produce electricity. So, if you are planning to install solar panels outdoors, you have to decide how much you are willing to spend. 7. Durability Durability is the first thing you need to consider when choosing solar panels outdoors. Solar panels are not cheap, and you don't want to make a bad investment. It is very important to check the glass on the panel. It should be durable and thick, made of tempered glass that is scratch resistant and won't crack under pressure. The glass needs to be strong enough to withstand wind and to keep the solar panel protected. The panel frame should have a good warranty and be sturdy, but most importantly, it should be made of rust-resistant material. It must be able to withstand the elements and keep the solar panel safe from rust. The whole frame needs to be strong, not just the legs. A good warranty is also very important, don't settle for less than 25 years. 8. Setting up When choosing your solar panels for outdoor, the most important factor to consider is how easy it is to set up. If you are going to be using your solar panel for outdoor activity, it will most likely be set up in a place that is not easy to reach. You don't want to be carrying a heavy solar panel with you while you are hiking or camping. It would help if you also were looking for a solar panel that is light enough to carry around your neck. There are a bunch of solar panels out there that are pretty much ready to go. Just unroll your solar panel and put it in the sunlight. Wrapping It Up: These are the qualities that you must check before selecting solar panels outdoors. Outdoor solar panels are not only user-friendly. These solar panels are the ultimate solution for any place where frequent power cuts happen. Which types of quality do you match up with while selecting any outdoor solar panels? Let us know through the comment sections. Read Also: Prepare Your Solar Panels for the Fall10 Steps To Take To Set Up Solar Panels At HomeHow Much Do You Save With Solar Panels? The Ultimate GuideWhat You Should Know about Solar Energy for Schools Benefits

Illuminating the Future: How Commercial Solar Lights Are Revolutionizing Outdoor Lighting

Looking to brighten up the outside of your business in an eco-friendly and budget-friendly way? Well, you might want to consider commercial solar lights. They not only provide reliable lighting but also help you go green and cut down on your operating costs. Keep reading to discover more about the benefits of commercial solar lights and how to choose the right company to install them. Difference Between Non-Commercial And Commercial Solar Lights Like all lighting options, solar lights can be both small and large scale. Most people assume both have similar mechanisms of action and are just the same. However, that is not true! Commercial solar lights cover large spaces such as streets, huge security areas, roads, and paths. These also cost a lot more than non-commercial systems. Non-commercial solar lights are those that we can use to illuminate homes. Other than the difference in battery capacities, these two do not differ in other specifications. The non-commercial lights have less battery storage capacity than commercial lights. Harnessing the Power of the Sun Commercial lights are all about making the most of the sun's energy. They use something called photovoltaic cells, which are like little energy converters. These cells soak up sunlight during the day and turn it into electricity, storing it in batteries for use at night. The cool thing is, you don't need to rely on traditional power sources like electrical grids anymore. It's like getting free energy from the sun! Exceptional Energy Efficiency Solar lights are pretty impressive because they're super energy-efficient. They're designed to give you strong and reliable light without using up a lot of power. They use something called LED technology, which is like a tiny light bulb that's really good at saving energy. So, when you compare solar lights to regular lights, they save a lot of energy and help you cut down on your electricity bill. Everything You Need To Know About Commercial Solar Lights Sustainability is important for improving the current global conditions. Installing commercial solar lights takes us a step closer to that goal. Using commercial solar lights for outdoor lighting does not just help improve the space. It also helps the environment. Here are the important things you need to keep in mind: 1. How much sunlight does the space receive? You will come across an integrated outdoor solar light or other solar lighting solution in a major city. Usually, these are in spaces that are not overcrowded with skyscrapers, receiving ample sunlight for the solar lights to store. Picking a space that allows easy solar street light post installation is imperative. For example, the location's condition will help determine what you can expect from the product. Things to keep in mind are optimal software and hardware specifications that ensure smooth working. The area may have obstructions that can hinder the light's performance. Thus, in such a situation, your alternative would be installing a longer light post for it to work properly. 2. Size of the area you want to illuminate Outdoor commercial solar lights have systems that often have two distinct light units: High-intensity discharge (HID) lights and light-emitting diodes (LED). However, more recently, the use of LEDs is more beneficial. The energy-saving ability of LEDs is what helps it provide better illumination. Thus, before installation, you must decide which type of luminaires you want for your outdoor lighting needs. Commercial solar LED light will be suitable if the area you consider illuminating has a broad space. Moreover, wattage requirements should also be decided beforehand. The rule of thumb is to use higher-wattage lights (or electrical products) as they become cost-efficient in the long run. 3. Software specifications you need to keep in mind Commercial solar lights come with Smart technologies, and some may not have that. However, it is wise to select a product that offers different controls. The trend of smart lights should not stay limited to indoor lighting. Thus, choose an option that has intelligent control tools. These improve the overall efficiency of the installed lights and guarantee a great value for your money! 4. Cost of the installation Outdoor lighting systems can become expensive to install and maintain. Depending on the space you want to illuminate, the cost can change. The expenses can be divided between- running electrical cables, connecting to the grid, and trenching. Then, there are operational costs, electricity bills, and ongoing maintenance costs, all of which can become quite burdensome. Moreover, with the common idea that cheap can be synonymous with poor quality, asking the service provider is helpful. You should also remember that using less-energy-consuming products will be better than an energy-inefficient system. Advantages of Commercial Solar Lights Saving Money One of the best things about commercial lights is that they can save you a lot of money. Once you set them up, they hardly cost anything to run. You won't have to worry about paying high electricity bills or spending a lot on maintenance. This means businesses can use their money more wisely. Good for the Environment Solar lights are also great for the environment. They help you use less fossil fuels and electricity from power grids, which is a big deal for reducing pollution and taking care of the planet. So, when businesses use solar lights, they're showing that they care about the environment and want to help make the world more sustainable. Built to Last Commercial lights are tough cookies! They're made from strong materials that can handle all kinds of weather, even when it gets really rough outside. These lights are like the superheroes of the lighting world – they keep working, no matter what the weather is like. Plus, lots of them have backup batteries, so they stay on even when the sun isn't shining. That means you can count on them to light up your space, no matter what. Choosing a Commercial Outdoor Lighting Company Go for One With a Proven Track Record When you're looking for a company to help with your commercial solar lights, it's smart to pick one with a proven track record. Companies that have been doing this for a while really know their stuff. They've seen it all and can handle any tricky situations that might come up. Lights That Fit Your Needs You'll also want a company that can create lighting that's just right for your business. Think of it like getting a custom-made suit – it fits perfectly because it's made just for you. The same goes for lighting. It should match your specific needs, and a good company will make sure it does. Quality Components and Design Evaluate the quality of components employed in the company's lighting systems. High-quality photovoltaic cells, efficient LED fixtures, and durable construction materials are paramount for long-lasting and efficient solar lighting. To sum it all up, choosing commercial solar lights is like stepping into a new era of outdoor lighting. It's all about saving money, taking care of the planet, and making sure you have reliable lights. When you're picking a company to help with this, remember to look for ones with experience, the ability to customize the lights to your needs, high-quality parts, and excellent support. Read Also: Smart House Technology for Saving Energy 5 Features to Look for in a Business Energy Provider What You Should Know about Solar Energy for Schools Benefits

10 Steps To Take To Set Up Solar Panels At Home

Solar panel has become increasingly popular in the past few years. This is partly driven by how environmentally friendly it is, although many people have noted how economical it can be too. Despite being a smart decision for lowering energy bills, potential users can be put off by its installation costs. This shouldn't be an issue, as installing solar panels at home can be much easier than people might expect. As long as you have some DIY electrical knowledge, then you should be able to install the panels yourself. As Gem Energy Brisbane Solar Power notes, there are a number of steps that you'll need to take when installing a solar panel at home. Steps To Take To Set Up Solar Panels At Home 1. Calculate Your Electrical Load: Before you decide on anything, you should calculate your current electrical usage. Once you've done so, you'll then be able to determine which solar panels and other parts you'll need. This is relatively simple to do, and often only requires a bit of math, plus an energy reading from your meter. 2. Battery Selection: Which battery you choose can be vital for your solar power. Naturally, the panels only generate electricity during the day, so you'll need to store some for the night. To do so, you should choose a high-quality one that provides a consistent amount of electricity over time. This will make it reliable when you're running several appliances during the evening. 3. Select Your Solar Panels: There are a considerable number of solar panels to choose from, which can be overwhelming. When you're deciding on one, you should look at its energy rating. This is typically determined based on set conditions, with some being more appropriate for certain weather. As a result, you should research how well a model will perform in your area. 4. Know Where To Place It: When you're considering a solar panel, you should determine where the best place on your property to put it is. There can be a few factors at play here, with access to sunlight being the most notable. The obvious place to install the panel is your roof, although you'll need to decide where to place it here. 5. Choose A Charge Controller: This is a device that's placed between your battery and solar panel and regulates the flow of electricity between the two. Choosing the right one can make a large difference, as it dictates how effectively your battery will charge. This means that you should spend a considerable amount of time picking one. 6. Pick The Right Inverter: Solar panels typically turn sunlight into alternating current (AC). However, most appliances function on direct current (DC). As such, you'll need to purchase an inverter, which switches from one to the other. There are a few types of inverters to choose from, each with its benefits. As such, you should spend time researching each. 7. Mount The Solar Panel: Once you have the equipment, it's now time to mount the solar panel. You can either create your own mounting mechanism or purchase a premade one. If you're not overly familiar with the process, then it's recommended that you buy a kit. When creating your own, be aware of the angle that you're mounting it at, as this will affect how much sunlight it receives. 8. Inverter & Battery Stand: Similar to the solar panel itself, you may need to build a stand to hold your battery and inverter. However, this isn't a complicated task, as you'll be able to make do with a box that includes a hole for the wiring. Once everything has been wired, it's important to note that you should cover this hole as much as possible to keep everything from being damaged. You should also ensure that it's kept away from running water. 9. Start Wiring: The wiring may be the most overwhelming part of the process, although it can be more straightforward than you think. Put simply, the connection should go from the solar panel to your charge converter to your load, i.e., your appliances. Alongside this, the charge controller should be connected to your battery, which should also be connected to your load. 10. Start Enjoying Your Solar Panel: Once you've connected everything in the appropriate manner, you can start enjoying your solar power. While setting everything up, you should ensure that you've done so in the right way. The wiring is the most important area here, so you should take care of it. Read Also: What You Should Know About Solar Energy For Schools: Benefits, Expectations, And More

What You Should Know about Solar Energy for Schools Benefits

How you can save on expenses – and earn:

Will the sun be enough?

Is it the best solution for my school?

How to pay for it:

Ready Rooftops – How to Install Solar Panels

What Are Solar Incentives?

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Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

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8 Tips For Choosing Solar Panels For Outdoor Activity

Illuminating the Future: How Commercial Solar Lights Are Revolutionizing Outdoor Lighting

10 Steps To Take To Set Up Solar Panels At Home

What You Should Know about Solar Energy for Schools Benefits

How you can save on expenses – and earn:

Will the sun be enough?

Is it the best solution for my school?

How to pay for it:

Share this Article

Ready Rooftops – How to Install Solar Panels

What Are Solar Incentives?

Tags

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

Leave a Reply

Popular

Follow Us

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