Energy that doesn’t cost the Earth...
Solar Energy Factoids
Solar cells are long lasting sources of energy which can be used almost anywhere. Solar cells provide cost-effective solutions to energy problems in places where there is no mains electricity.
Compared to other renewable sources, they also possess many advantages:
Very reliable: Kyocera modules have a 25 year warranty and a considerably longer life expectancy. The theoretical lifespan of solar modules is 100 to 125 years. The first modules ever manufactured are still producing power after 50 years of service.
Unlimited Power: Each day, more energy falls to the earth from the sun's rays than the total amount of energy the planet's 5.9 billion inhabitants would consume in 27 years."
Environmentally Friendly: Over its lifetime a single gram of silicon can produce 3,300 kWh of electricity without releasing life threatening toxic and radioactive substances. A single gram of uranium can produce 3,800 kWh of electricity. However, a uranium atom can only be fissioned once, whereas a silicon solar cell can absorb photons repeatedly to generate electricity. Gram for gram, silicon and uranium produce comparable amounts of electricity.
Green Energy: Solar power is an environmentally friendly energy source. By not using fossil fuels to generate electricity, a 1Kw solar power system will prevent about 25 tons of carbon dioxide emissions over its life. That is equivalent to planting about an acre of trees.
Low cost: Calculated over the life expectancy of solar modules, solar power becomes one of the cheapest, hassle-free and pollution-free energy sources available.
Inflation proof: Your investment in solar energy protects you from the spiralling cost of energy. Since January 2004, average (UK) household energy bills have risen by 69% or £407. The average joint bill for gas and electricity now stands at just under £1,000 a year per household. Gas bills alone have risen by 85%. Electricity-only customers have seen 50% rises. In the past year each of the power companies have increased prices twice, with three rises from npower.
