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Saturday, September 9, 2017

Friday, September 8, 2017

How Much of World Energy Consumption And Electricity Generation Comes From Renewable Energy?

Solar energy does not produce air or water pollution or greenhouse gases. Solar energy can have a positive, indirect effect on the environment when using solar energy replaces or reduces the use of other energy sources that have larger effects on the environment. However, some toxic materials and chemicals are used to make the photovoltaic (PV) cells that convert sunlight into electricity. Some solar thermal systems use potentially hazardous fluids to transfer heat. Leaks of these materials could be harmful to the environment. U.S. environmental laws regulate the use and disposal of these types of materials.




The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) publishes estimates and projections for energy consumption and production from renewable energy and other types of fuels/energy sources in the International Energy Outlook (IEO). Estimates and projections for renewable energy are included in each section of the report and in the tables of the report. 

The sun has produced energy for billions of years and is the ultimate source for all of the energy sources and fuels that we use today. People have used the sun's rays (solar radiation) for thousands of years for warmth and to dry meat, fruit, and grains. Over time, people developed devices (technologies) to collect solar energy for heat and to convert it into electricity.

An example of an early solar energy collection device is the solar oven (a box for collecting and absorbing sunlight). In the 1830's, British astronomer John Herschel used a solar oven to cook food during an expedition to Africa. People now use many different technologies for collecting and converting solar radiation into useful heat energy for a variety of purposes.


We use solar thermal energy systems to

  • heat water for use in homes, buildings, or swimming pools
  • heat the inside of homes, greenhouses, and other buildings
  • heat fluids to high temperatures in solar thermal power plants

Solar photovoltaic (PV) devices, or solar cells, change sunlight directly into electricity. Small PV cells can power calculators, watches, and other small electronic devices. Arrangements of many solar cells in PV panels and arrangements of multiple PV panels in PV arrays can produce electricity for an entire house. Some PV power plants have large arrays that cover many acres to produce electricity for thousands of homes.

The two main benefits of using solar energy are
  • Solar energy systems do not produce air pollutants or carbon dioxide.
  • Solar energy systems on buildings have minimal impact on the environment.

The Grape Solar 400-Watt Off-Grid Solar Panel Kit is ideal for a variety of applications, including emergency backup systems, RVs, boats, 12 Volt battery charging, small pumps, charging small electronic devices and operating LED lights. Made with high efficiency crystalline solar cells for years of service, this solar kit is easy to install and virtually maintenance free! An anodized aluminum frame and a sealed junction box make the panel weatherproof for outdoor use. Two blocking diodes prevent reverse current flow. This system will provide approximately 1,200 Watt Hours or 100 Amp Hours of charge per day. The kit includes: 4 pc 100-Watt polycrystalline solar panels, a 35 Amp charge controller, 1,800-watt inverter with two outlets and 1 USB port, cables and manual.Shop now


Renogy 100W Monocrystalline Starter Kit is designed specifically for customers new to solar. The Starter Kit is great for off-grid applications, such as RVs, trailers, boats, sheds, and cabins - providing many benefits, including, but not limited to, quiet power production and grid independence. This solar kit comes with the tools necessary for a new system: a Renogy 100W 12V Monocrystalline Solar Panel, a 30A PWM Wanderer Charge Controller, a 20ft 10AWG MC4 Adaptor Kit, an 8ft 10AWG Tray Cable, and a set of Z-brackets. Start your solar adventure with a Renogy Starter Kit. Negative grounding controller ensures the broader off grid applications and safety, especially to be used on a vehicle which has battery negative on the chassis. A little extra investment on the right charge controller will generate a much higher return and prevent system failure. Shop now

At Crescent Electric, energy efficiency is a key consideration in every product we sell.  With energy costs rising, energy efficiency is driving both building codes and product standards.  Crescent Electric is committed to supplying the latest in energy-efficient equipment and materials, including products for lighting, heating and ventilation, motor controls, security, datacomm and much more.
With over 200,000 products from 1,500 vendors warehoused in 140 branches throughout the United States, we have the product depth and extensive local inventory to meet your needs today.  From a new office tower to a modest home remodel, you can count on us to get you what you want, where you want it, when you want it—with NO SURPRISES! Save Energy & Money with the Cree CR6 Downlight!