A Chula Vista non-profit is helping low-income families purchase electric vehicles.
Read more at: https://maacproject.org/ev-access/
Category Archives: Renewables and Energy
Selecting or replacing your solar inverter(?) for your PV solar array
Inverters are an indispensable component of almost all solar electric systems. They work long hours converting the direct current (DC) electricity generated by a photovoltaic (PV) array into alternating current (AC) electricity—the type used in homes and businesses. In battery-based systems, inverters contain circuitry to perform a number of additional useful functions.
A good inverter is key to the success of a renewable energy system, so shop carefully. Size it appropriately, and be sure to consider future electrical needs. But don’t forget that you can trim electrical consumption by installing energy-efficient electronic devices and appliances. Maximizing efficiency is always cheaper than adding more capacity. When shopping for an inverter, select the features you want, and purchase the best model you can afford. Although modified square wave inverters work for most applications, you’ll likely be happier if you purchase a sine wave inverter. It’s a decision you won’t regret if you plan to operate a computer or television.
read article at: https://www.motherearthnews.com/renewable-energy/energy-efficiency/select-solar-inverter-zm0z21onzram
Posted in Renewables and Energy
Tagged items for house solar, solar for house, what solar inverter
How many solar panels does it take to power an electric car
Here’s how it works out for us. In the first two years of EV ownership, we have averaged 4,000 miles per year. Our Nissan Leaf gets an average of 4.3 miles per kWh. Each of the solar panels we installed generates 360 kWhs annually. Here is the calculation:
4000 miles per year ÷ 4.3 kWh/mile = 930 kWhs needed to power our vehicle per year
930 kWhs ÷ 360 kWh/panel = 2.5 panels needed to provide 930 kWhs per year
Obviously, you would want to round up to the next full panel in this situation. The little bit of extra output will give some room to increase your solar-powered driving distance as well as accommodate an acceptable margin of error. Also, solar output will decline by about 0.8% each year as panels age and car batteries will lose a bit of efficiency over time, just as internal combustion vehicles decline in efficiency as they age.
What if you don’t have solar panels for your electric vehicle? It’s still cheaper and less polluting to drive an EV than a fossil fuel burner, even if you purchase electricity from the grid. To compare for yourself, see the USDOE’s Cost Comparison tool. So don’t let that stop you from transitioning away from internal combustion vehicles. But if you’re planning to install solar panels, consider adding sufficient panels for your daily transportation needs, and take a giant step towards a more economical zero energy, zero carbon life.
read entire article: https://zeroenergyproject.org/2019/10/21/how-many-solar-panels-does-it-take-to-power-an-electric-car/
disclaimer: for information and entertainment purposes only
Green Real Estate Appraiser 