A change in the wind (and the air)
To say that these are exciting times for solar installers and their commercial customers alike would be a deep appreciation for the facts at hand. Harnessing the power of the sun, whether it be to cultivate naturally warm, bright rooms or to power thousands of homes in the world’s largest cities, has been recognized and appreciated on some level since ancient civilizations first worshiped our star. closest (the Sun) as a God. But only today is the massive installation of photovoltaic (photovoltaic) energy a profitable and energy efficient reality that improves almost daily. What’s more, survey data increasingly shows enthusiastic support from Americans for clean technologies, be it wind farms or solar power. According to a study by Yale and George Mason Universities, 83% supported tax rebates for energy efficient vehicles and solar panels and 87% supported increased funding for renewable energy research.
Solar awning installation: a season that never sets
Even now, when true fall weather takes over much of the country, even piling snow for the high-altitude Rocky Mountains, October is still the ideal time of year to consider a solar canopy upgrade. While it is true that solar panels work most efficiently during spring and summer when the sun is at a higher and more direct angle, and a longer and often sunnier day length further enhances your collection. of photons (and thus power generation), much of the continental United States remains in favorable latitudes, spanning about 25-49 degrees north to receive moderately strong sunlight, even in winter. This geographic distribution places the southern United States firmly in the subtropical latitudes and the northern United States in the mid-south-central latitudes. Additionally, the western US, west of 100 degrees longitude, is generally sunnier and drier than locations further east, increasing that region’s solar energy potential.
By far, October can be an ideal time to consider and install a solar canopy as seasonal demand decreases and it might be easier to make an appointment with an canopy company that provides solar canopy installation and can educate you on how to cut back. even more. commercial costs, as well as guiding them through the government’s LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification process, making them eligible for federal tax credits of more than 30% of the installation cost. Green awnings have also been shown to reduce air conditioning bills by up to 25%, while lowering the indoor temperature by 8 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
And as the back-to-school season progresses, many science classrooms and the school at large are looking for ways to embrace outdoor education before it gets too cold. Therefore, many regional and national solar events are dedicated to promoting the value of solar energy. For example, The Alliance to Save Energy, a Washington DC-based nonprofit founded in 1977, produced its Great Energy Efficiency Day Part II on Wednesday, October 3, where it hopes to promote the group’s urgent energy message that: “promotes energy efficiency around the world for a healthier economy, a cleaner environment and energy security.” Similar events and demonstrations are likely taking place in your neighborhood as well. And any company that supports such a cause, not with words, but through actions installed with awnings, becomes a local leader and not just a passive listener. Today’s awnings can be made of metal, fabric, canvas, and combinations thereof. Unlike their older counterparts, photovoltaic cells are lightweight, compact, and allow up to 15% of natural sunlight through them. Lacking moving parts, photovoltaic systems can last for years with only minimal low-cost maintenance, while regular cleaning of photovoltaic surfaces ensures maximum sunlight reaches the cells. As reliable as traditional awnings, solar awnings are designed for the highest wind tolerances and will not sag under heavy snow loads. In fact, their dark surfaces increase heat absorption and aid in de-icing.
The bright future of solar energy starts today
Despite the knowledge of its power for thousands of years, solar energy in 2012 continues to undergo an impressive revolution. Almost daily, new reports appear confirming that the cost of solar installations, awnings or otherwise, is falling dramatically and its popularity cuts across all social classes and income levels. According to a recent study by Kelton Research, 92% of Americans favor the development of solar energy. And earlier this summer, the Solar Energy Industries Association and GTM Research concluded that the US market for solar panels will double in 2012, installing an additional 3,300 megawatts of power to the national electrical grid, while installation costs year-over-year year they have fallen another 17%.
So whether you’re a business owner, restaurant manager, law firm, or just a homeowner looking up at a bright October sky and thinking about the massive amount of free energy that comes from that bright star and wants to Capture One part, a solar canopy (or canopies) might be the right choice for you today!