As we kick off winter 2021-2022, you’re probably anticipating a jump in your heating bill due to dropping temperatures. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), it’s actually slated to be a warmer winter than usual, with above-average temperatures predicted across most of the U.S. due to LA Niña climate conditions – but you should still be prepared for higher than normal heating and electricity bills due to the rising cost of natural gas – and other fossil fuels – across the world. In this article, we’ll explain why natural gas prices are increasing, where the increases are most dramatic, and how you can protect yourself from the volatility of fossil fuel energy sources (spoiler alert: going solar will help!).
Continue readingQ&A with dcbel
If you’re looking to electrify your home, you might be confused by the various components you need and how they all fit together. dcbel, a Canadian company, is trying to make the home electrification process easier with their Home Energy Station – a product that serves as an electric vehicle (EV) charger, solar inverter, and storage inverter. We sat down with dcbel to learn more about their company, the Home Energy Station, and their advice for homeowners.
Continue readingSolar system components and setup: what you need to know
Once solar panels are set up on a property, they’ve relatively maintenance free. This is because the majority of solar panel systems have no moving parts; as long as they’re receiving sunlight and the products aren’t faulty, they will be a reliable source of electricity for at least 25 to 30 years.
Because of their ease of use, most people don’t think about the actual setup of a solar panel system. What parts are required? And how do they all connect to produce power for your property? Here’s a quick intro to the most important solar system components, and how they’re set up on your home or business.
Continue readingWhat’s happening with net metering in Florida? Breaking down House Bill 741
Colloquially referred to as the “Sunshine State,” Florida doesn’t disappoint: on average, about two-thirds of Florida days are sunny! Florida has risen to the top of solar states with its ample sunshine, coming in at third in the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA)’s list of top 10 states with cumulative solar electric capacity installed through 2021.
However, the Florida House and Senate just passed House Bill (HB) 741, which has the potential to damage Florida’s solar industry significantly. In this article, we’ll explain what you need to know about HB 741 and what it could mean for you if you’re a Florida resident.
Continue readingUnderstanding solar loan fees
If you’re looking to finance solar panels for your home, there are a few things you’ll need to be aware of to select the best option for you. Several factors may impact the cost of your solar loan, including your credit score and current debt-to-income ratio (DTI), the loan’s interest rate, and any solar loan fees.
Continue reading10 best solar panels for home in 2022: top brands and products compared
Finding the best solar panels for your home can feel like a daunting challenge. There are more than a hundred different brands of solar panels and other solar equipment on the market at any given point. In this article, we’ll discuss how solar panel manufacturers stack up to one another, and who makes the best solar panels.
Continue readingThe Coalition for Community Solar Access: what you need to know
Going solar is a great way to reduce your reliance on fossil fuels – while saving money! But what about the almost 80 percent of Americans who aren’t able to install solar on their properties? Whether you’re a renter, have a heavily shaded roof, or don’t want to invest in a solar system, there’s an alternative solution that can still allow you to reap the benefits of solar energy: community solar. The Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA) is an organization dedicated to expanding community solar and making it more accessible across the U.S. In this article, we’ll explain the importance of this coalition and what you need to know about them.
Continue readingWhat solar energy equipment do I need to go solar?
If you’re considering installing a solar panel system, you’ve probably spent some time researching financing, tax breaks, and solar installers. However, you should also educate yourself about the solar energy equipment your system needs to get up and running. While the components of a PV system are simple, the different product options and brands can make the equipment selection process fairly complex. We’ll break down all things solar power equipment in order to best prepare you to select your hardware.
Continue readingCT Green Bank review: green lending for solar and other clean energy upgrades
Connecticut (CT) Green Bank was the first green bank founded in the U.S. They support green energy adoption in Connecticut by making green energy financing accessible and affordable for homeowners, businesses, and multifamily property owners.
Continue readingHow many watts does a treadmill use?
While not as power-hungry as appliances like air conditioners or washing machines, it’s important to know how much electricity a treadmill uses when you’re looking at your whole home’s energy usage.
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