Technology is working feverishly to develop newer, easier, less expensive components. The biggest contribution to reducing costs and increasing reliability will be increased use. If people demand a product, manufacturers are going to find an affordable way to supply it.



Currently we are using solar energy to:

1. Provide security lighting – Solar spot lights mounted near a door or in dark corners of your property are ideal for deterring unwanted visitors.

2. Landscape, deck and patio lighting – Again solar lights are so versatile they can be mounted on deck rails, set on tables, or embedded in steps and paths to ensure safety.

3. Providing light in places currently not served by electricity – Solar lights are ideal for remote camp sites, and other areas where electrical connections aren't available. Solar lanterns can be used outdoors or inside tents, camper, and RV's.

4. Heat the water we use in our home – Water is heated by using heat collected through a solar panel mounted on the roof of your house or sometimes on the side. The panel must directly face the sun for the longest possible time each day.

5. Heat our homes – Active, passive, or a combination of these systems can be used. This is not usually a do-it-yourself job. It takes an expert in the field to install the correct system in the right way. Often the water that is heated for household use can also heat the home.

6. Warm the water in swimming pools and spas – Heating water in a swimming pool is relatively simple because you use the existing pool filtration system pump to pass the water through the solar collector and then to the pool. This is a great way to save on the cost of heating the water in your pool and spa.

7. Experiments in cooling with solar are also in progress – While cooling can be achieved using solar energy, the initial costs at this time outweigh the benefits, but as I've said, somebody will figure it out.

So where can we start? As consumers interested in cleaner, cheaper, and yet reliable energy, a new look at the emerging solar energy field is a good choice. Begin small – perhaps lighting your deck or patio, your driveway or paths in your garden with portable solar lights. Maybe solar hot water, or passive heating of your home would be next.

Where you live is very much a factor in how effective solar energy will be. The more direct sunlight you have available the easier it will be to utilize solar energy, but almost any part of the country can use the free energy from the sun for some part of their energy needs.

Remember, if we, the consumers want a product, someone will find a way to provide it to us. So just keep asking!