GMM Solar Energy

by Rob Smith

GMM Committee on Climate Change

Solar energy is the world's most important energy resource.But the balance of absorption and radiation is critical.

The energy available from the sun can suffice for our needs.We can make use of it from wind-power and solar collectors.

Solar installation of a GMM member

Two grid-tie DC-AC inverters

A sunny day, 2026 watts, January, 2012

Power: 32 Solar Photovoltaic Modules @ 190 Watt => 6000 Watts

Energy:6000 Watts x 90% efficiency x 3.5 hours / day => 19 kWh/day

Cost: $1.65 per watt

32 Modules x $315/module => $10,000Electronics & wiring $10,000Installation $10,000

-----------$30,000

Federal Tax Credit (30%) $9,00-----------

Total after credit $21,000

Payback:At $0.15 per kWh:19 kWh / day * $0.15 / kW => $2.85 / day

$21,000 / $2.85 / day => 20 years

Longevity: 30 years or more

Power: 32 Solar Photovoltaic Modules @ 190 Watt => 6000 Watts

Energy:

6000 watts x 90% efficiency x 3.5 hours / day => 19 kWh/day to Power Grid19 kWh / day x 365 days / year => 7000 kWh / year

Global Warming Savings:

1.9 lbs CO2 per kWh generated (US average)

7000 kWh / year * 1.9 lbs CO2 / kWh => 13,300 lbs CO

2/year

=> 6.65 tons/year CO2 saved !

Over 20 years: => 133 tons CO2 saved !

=> more than weight of house !