Product Description

This book presents the physical and technical principles of promising ways of utilising renewable energies. In this context, firstly the main characteristics of the available renewable energy streams are outlined. Subsequently, the book presents the technologies of heat provision from passive and active solar systems, ambient air, shallow geothermal energy as well as energy from deep geothermal sources. In the preceding chapters the book addresses the processes of electricity generation from solar radiation (photovoltaic and solar thermal power plant technologies), wind energy, and hydropower. In addition, a brief discussions of harnessing ocean energies is included.

The authors provide the important data and parameter sets for the major possibilities of renewable energies utilization which allow an economic and environmental assessment. Such an assessment enables us to judge the chances and limits of the multiple options utilising renewable energy sources.

Product Description
If you have any interest at all in renewable energy... if you want to find out how much money you could possibly save by “going green”... or you just want to figure out whether renewable energy is even a REAL option for your needs... then this guide was written just for you. ... Read more

Product Description

Also called energy scavenging, energy harvesting captures, stores, and uses "clean" energy sources by employing interfaces, storage devices, and other units. Unlike conventional electric power generation systems, renewable energy harvesting does not use fossil fuels and the generation units can be decentralized, thereby significantly reducing transmission and distribution losses. But advanced technical methods must be developed to increase the efficiency of devices in harvesting energy from environmentally friendly, "green" resources and converting them into electrical energy.

Recognizing this need, Energy Harvesting: Solar, Wind, and Ocean Energy Conversion Systems describes various energy harvesting technologies, different topologies, and many types of power electronic interfaces for stand-alone utilization or grid connection of energy harvesting applications. Along with providing all the necessary concepts and theoretical background, the authors develop simulation models throughout the text to build a practical understanding of system analysis and modeling.

With a focus on solar energy, the first chapter discusses the I−V characteristics of photovoltaic (PV) systems, PV models and equivalent circuits, sun tracking systems, maximum power point tracking systems, shading effects, and power electronic interfaces for grid-connected and stand-alone PV systems. It also presents sizing criteria for applications and modern solar energy applications, including residential, vehicular, naval, and space applications. The next chapter reviews different types of wind turbines and electrical machines as well as various power electronic interfaces. After explaining the energy generation technologies, optimal operation principles, and possible utilization techniques of ocean tidal energy harvesting, the book explores near- and offshore approaches for harvesting the kinetic and potential energy of ocean waves. It also describes the required absorber, turbine, and generator types, along with the power electronic interfaces for grid connection and commercialized ocean wave energy conversion applications. The final chapter deals with closed, open, and hybrid-cycle ocean thermal energy conversion systems.

Product Description

Customer Reviews (16)

Its a catalog with a few broad articles
Don't try to count the number of times the book says "carbon footprint" or "green".You'll lose your mind.Its a big product catalog with a sprinkling of broad articles. I would have preferred some DIY articles instead of a listing of "green" catalog crap listed repeatedly after every chapter.The author only presents the crap he sells in his store.I think I can build a $1000 solar hot water systembetter than the $4500 system he sells, but I would need to purchase a pump and switches, the catalog only lists kits with the option to add a regular hot water heater as a holding tank.I would rather my holding tank be my heat exchanger, like (2) 55 gallon drums heavily insulated and converted to heat exchangers using coils of copper tubbing.The book is a catalog, 350 pages of crap and 150 pages of articles that were mildly useful.If you're serious about going off-grid, there are better books.

Not a book, a sales pitch
This is not a book on solar living.This is a book that wants to sell you the best solar equipment/tools out there.

Solar Living Source Book
I am very pleased with my purchase. However was frustrated with delivery. It took forever to arrive!

Excellant resource
I haven't finished reading the entire book but so far it is excellant resource for learning to live off the grid.

Great overview of the entire alternative energy/lifestyle
This should be the first source for anyone considering anything to do with a back to the land lifestyle. ... Read more

Product Description
Solar Electricity Second Edition Edited by Tomas Markvart University of Southampton, UK ".warmly recommended as a comprehensive, introductory text on a subject which should become increasingly important." (Review of the First Edition in Contemporary Physics) The rapid evolution of photovoltaic technology has highlighted the increasing capabilities of solar electricity as a power source for distributed energy generation. Building on the success of the first edition, Solar Electricity presents a balanced introduction to all aspects of solar energy conversion, from cell types to environmental impact and applications. Now fully revised to incorporate the latest industry achievements and featuring: New sections on the role of dye sensitised solar cells, photovoltaics in buildings, diesel hybrid systems, and photovoltaic markets and funding. Solar cell design and manufacturing technology including crystalline silicon and thin film devices. Introduction to a range of photovoltaic applications including rural electrification, grid connection issues, and the supply of electrical power to satellites in space. Illustrative case studies and self-assessment questions and answers at the end of each chapter. Undergraduate and postgraduate science and engineering students, practising mechanical and power engineers and those with a general interest in renewable energy will find this comprehensive text on invaluable reference. Solar Electricity, Second Edition forms part of the Energy Engineering Learning Package. Organised by UNESCO, this distance learning package has been established to train engineers to meet the challengs of today and tomorrow in this exciting field of energy engineering. It has been developed by an international team of distinguished academics, coordinated by Dr Boris Berkovski. This modular course will appeal to advanced undergraduates and post graduate students, as well as practising power engineers in industry. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

No shipping status
I was promised shipping information when I purchased the book. I spent additional money to upgrade the delivery for faster delivery and a tracking number. I never did get a tracking number. The supplier was slow to respond to my question on shipping. I received an answer as to whether the book was shipped two days after the book arrived.

book review
great book if your looking for well-rounded info about photovoltaics, fairly up to date too.

Good photovoltaic resource
This book was a required textbook for a solar energy class that I took.Normally, I would sell a book after taking a class, but this one I decided to keep because it has a lot of good information on photovoltaics and how they work, on a very technical level, without being too dry and boring.It is a relatively easy read, considering that it is technical information.

The book does NOT cover any solar thermal applications.You will need to find this information elsewhere.

Excellent introduction to PV
Tomas Markvart is well-known and highly regarded for his microgrid research at the University of Southampton and the Tyndall Centre.Solar Electricity was written for the UNESCO Energy Engineering Series distance learning package, and was intended to be self-contained and accessible to upper level energy engineering students everywhere.Published in 2000, it's still one of the best introductions to the engineering of photovoltaic systems.The detailed Table of Contents on this page gives a good overview of the subjects it covers.

One of the most helpfule guides for PV System Design
If you're looking for a start book on Photovoltaics (PV),this is the one to start with. Dr. Markvart takes you from the principle of solar irradiation, to complete design of a PV generator. He explains himself very easily when talking about solar cell's operation and manufacturing process. When he arrives to PV System Engineering, he shows you exactly all the steps you have to follow for sizing a proper PV system. IF what you're looking for is complete design procedures for PV system, including charge controllers, inverters, battery chargers, this is a good start, but will not help much for designing purpouses. For this you should look for Photovoltaic System Engineeringby Dr. Roger Messenger. Another good book by Markvart is Practical PV Handbook; together with Solar Electricity, is a great pack for designers or scientifics working with PV systems. ... Read more

Product Description
A must have first text for any homeowner wanting toinstall a back up power system for their home or home business.

Addresses new ways to prepare for power outages including Y2K,brownouts, storm outages, and rolling blackouts.

Step by step guide to become independent of the utility grid.

Answers all installation questions about solar photovoltaic systems,generators, battery inverters, wind turbines, and battery banks,including wiring diagrams and safety issues. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

How to cut the wire.
This book is great and a must read for anyone who wants to cut the wire and become energy independent of the energy grid. Everyone knows that the grid is a mony gobleing monster and that they will use any excuse to charge you more and more money for your electric bill and yes this includes the so called co-ops. Read this book and not only can you cut the wire but it shows you how to turn the tables on them and make them buy the excess electriscity that you don't use from you.

Misleading title; good, but sparse, content
Jeffrey Yago certainly has the credentials to write an authoritative book on energy independence; he's a professional engineer, a specialist in alternate energy applications, and - most importantly - he's done it himself; he lives in a large home that embodies his philosophy.The book reflects this wealth of knowledge and experience.

You should know that at least 90% of this book, and perhaps more, is centered around electricity production through the use of solar panels.Wind generators are mentioned, but only briefly - as in a few paragraphs, and one picture; and other important solar energy topics, such as the use of solar hot water systems, are barely mentioned.The importance of heat conservation through upgrading insulation and the use of triple pane, low-e argon filled windows is not mentioned at all.This is particularly disappointing, because for most climates in North America, ranging from the very cold to the very hot, reducing energy losses through passive insulation is one of the most cost effective things the average person can do.You get more bang for your buck through insulation - in most cases - than any other solar energy upgrade you can perform.But Yago doesn't mention this fact.

(Think you don't need insulation, because you live in Arizona?Well, more insulation keeps the heat out, and the cold in, better.Something to consider, when you next pay the electrical bill for running your air conditioner.)

I would like to have seen plans for a do it yourself domestic solar water heater; but they're not here.A solar oven can be easily constructed, and is a very inspiring and educational way to learn about the power of the sun; but there's nothing in this book on the topic.Solar showers can be easily constructed, or even inexpensively purchased commercially; but you won't find them mentioned here.There's no indication of how much insulation to use in your home's walls and ceilings, and there's no discussion of how much heat loss occurs through regular windows.There's nothing on passive solar gain through the use of Trombe walls, and no information on heat storage through the use of water or rock mass.Electricity generation through the use of small hydroelectric units is barely mentioned (as in, yeah, you can do it).But you won't find any discussion of height versus water pressure, or suppliers of hydro generation units, or cost/benefit ratios (how much water do I have to have flowing, from what height, before hydro units are a better value than solar panels?)

In short, the book confines itself to the topic of ELECTRICITY conservation, and ELECTRICITY generation - and that, primarily through the use of solar panels and gasoline generators, often connected to the grid through utility intertie systems.

For the beginner, this is a good book.The information, although very limited in scope, is correct; and Yago's experience in this small aspect of solar power is quite evident.His information regarding batteries - selection, housing, charging, equalization - is important for those new to solar power.

(One important point: Yago states that homeowners should replace their existing light bulbs with replacement florescent lighting.He's correct; the payback is dramatic.But Yago also states that hallways and rooms should be equipped with motion sensor switches, that turn on the lights when you enter and turn them off when you leave.The trouble is, most motion sensor switches of this type will not work with florescent tubes; and of the few that do, none will work with the electronic ballast, screw in replacement florescent bulbs most likely to be used by the consumer.They'll cause the switches to overheat, burn out, and represent a fire hazard.This is mentioned in the fine print on the switch; so, if you go this route, make CERTAIN that the motion detector switch is compatible with an ELECTRONIC ballast, florescent fixture.I don't know of any that are.)
(UPDATE: Scott Ermatinger found one at Smarthome - do a Google Search to locate their website.So finally, it is an option, although at $55 each it's a somewhat expensive one.Thanks, Scott, for the information!)

Other, more detailed books on solar electrical power have been written by David Smead, who runs a company called Ample Power.While Smead tends to center his books on the boating industry, most of the issues that face an off grid homeowner are the same as those faced by a cruising boat captain.Smead's texts provide a wealth of factual information on batteries and electrical generation, and should be read by anyone intent on doing solar power.They can be daunting, however; Smead is a very high level engineer, and has designed a few items for solar power which have become widely used - and copied - throughout the industry.You should familiarize yourself with his books and products.

For those looking for more general information on achieving energy independence through solar power, check out the many books written or published by Real Goods, and available through Amazon.Real Goods covers many more of the bases than this book does.Do keep in mind that Real Goods is a commercial retail mail order store; they sell stuff.Even so, I've found their information to be factual, and wide ranging.Becasue of their commercial orientation, I'm always concerned that their information will be designed to sell products, rather than educate consumers; but in truth, I have not found this to be the case.

Yago's book is NOT complete.You will NOT leave this book with all the information necessary to order and construct your own solar power system.It is more of a general, 30,000 foot overview of electrical energy conservation and production through the use of solar panels.

I would recommend this book to individuals new to the solar power movement, who are seeking a broad, non-detailed overview of power production and storage through solar panel usage.It is by no means a one stop shop; you'll need to read many other books to become a solar power guru.But Yagos' book is informative, fairly accurate, and factual - as far as it goes.

It just doesn't go very far.

Good starter book
Book tells you how to "plan" a solar powered system by outlining the loads in your home. Easy to understand but not technical enough. Needs to list more products and where to get them. More pictures would be nice. All in all the book gives a great summary on how to start and plan a system that suits your needs. I recommend getting it for anyone interested in planing a solar powered system for you home or business.

A Great Teaching Tool
Jeff Yago's book is a great tool for solar experts to use when teaching homeowners or training electricians and solar contractors new to the business.My organization, the Maryland-DC-Virginia Solar EnergyIndustries Association, uses Jeff's book as a text for Training Seminarsand Workshops we conduct throughout the year.The book has been aninvaluable aid in conveying the sometimes complex information in auser-friendly fashion to our Seminar participants.I highly recommend thebook!

A Great Teaching Tool
Jeff Yago's book is a great tool for solar experts to use when teaching homeowners or training electricians and solar contractors new to the business.My organization, the Maryland-DC-Virginia Solar EnergyIndustries Association, uses Jeff's book as a text for Training Seminarsand Workshops we conduct throughout the year.The book has been aninvaluable aid in conveying the sometimes complex information in auser-friendly fashion to our Seminar participants.I highly recommend thebook! ... Read more

Product Description
Heating water with the sun is a practice almost as old as humankind itself. Solar Water Heating, now completely revised and expanded, is the definitive guide to this clean and cost-effective technology. Beginning with a review of the history of solar water and space heating systems from prehistory to the present, Solar Water Heating presents an introduction to modern solar energy systems, energy conservation, and energy economics. Drawing on the authors- experiences as designers and installers of these systems, the book goes on to cover: Types of solar collectors, solar water, and space heating systems and solar pool heating systems, including their advantages and disadvantages. System components, their installation, operation, and maintenance. System sizing and siting. Choosing the appropriate system. This book focuses on the financial aspects of solar water or space heating systems, clearly showing that such systems generate significant savings in the long run. With many diagrams and illustrations to complement the clearly written text, this book is designed for a wide readership ranging from the curious homeowner to the serious student or professional. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Not at all bad if you can stand the politics...
The book is generally well written and has helpful illustrations.

Unfortunately, the author insisted on going political (e.g., "big oil is evil, "Reagan sucks," etc.) in his History chapter.Too bad...I really just wanted information about solar water heating. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Solar-Thermal Energy Systems
There is no gain saying that this is an extremely good text as far as the simulation of Thermal systems is concerned.It is especially very useful for solar-thermal systems.The title of the book couldn't have been more apt.The writing style and the presentation of the relevant background materials is just fine.Targetted primarily at design and simulation engineers,the authors dive from the first chapter into the main fabrics of thermal systems modeling and simulation without the distracting gory tales of how the sun came to be etc,which are the hallmarks of some so-called thermal systems design texts.If you are a thermal system analyst who want to get to the nitty-gritty of thermal systems' modeling and simulations from the word go, i believe the authors had you in mind as far as this book is concerned.
However,someone should please inform Professor Howell et al,that this superb book is long overdue for a thorough review to bring it to modern programming standards.The sample programs at the end of the book will not find the light of the day with modern Fortran and Basic codes.They are spaghetti codes that modern engineers and scientists may not give a second look.Apart from these,the book is what every thermal engineer needs. ... Read more

Product Description
All the power you need is already there.

This third edition helps readers understand the basics of solar (photovoltaic) power and explore whether it makes sense for them, what their options are, and what's involved with installing various on- and off-grid systems.

- Solar power is a $3 billion industry, and it's poised to grow to $39 billion by 2014

- By 2011, the United States will surpass Germany as the largest market for solar power products ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Any homeowner's collection needs this
The third updated edition of Complete Idiot's Guide to Solar Power for Your Home is a winner, offering an in-depth survey of the solar power industry and the latest solar products for a home. Homeowners receive instructions on several simple solar power projects you can complete on your own, along with tips on buying solar systems, components, and locating a reliable installer. Any homeowner's collection needs this.
... Read more

Product Description
The perfect source for solar power-fully illustrated.

Solar Power (photovoltaics) is now a one-billion-dollar industry, and it-s poised to grow rapidly in the near future as more pressure is placed on limited fossil fuel resources and as advances in solar technology drive down the costs of residential solar systems. This book helps readers understand the basics of solar power and other renewable energy sources, explore whether solar power makes sense for them, what their options are, and what-s involved with installing various on and off-grid systems.
-Fully illustrated
-Covers every conceivable solar-power topic and concern, including updated information on the increasing number of state rebate and incentive programs
... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Need to be better than an idiot.
It was simply not as simple as I thought it might be.However, I have an electric expert as a friend, and between the two of us we can do the job.

Solar Power
Solar Power for Your Home
by David Hughes et al.Alpha Publishers2010

Reviewed by: Dr. Joseph S. Maresca

This is an excellent guide for anyone planning to install
solar energy panels in a home or take advantage of the sale
of excess renewable power to the local electric company .
The work describes solar power functionality
and solar energy at work. The processes described are perfect
for communities and third world countries operating without
public utilities.

The process has a solar energy module consisting of a
charge controller,battery with an offshoot to a DC load
or AC load and an inverter for the AC load.
The payback for the solar system is through a federal tax
credit, solar rebates, selling power to the local utilities
or renewable energy credits.

There are several big initiatives going on right now like
the Million Solar Roofs Initiative. The American Recovery
Reinvestment Act is responsible for solar energy promotion
on federal buildings. Solar energy may be financed
through consumer loans, a 1st or 2nd mortgage, as well as
special federal programs like Title I loans.
Fannie Mae has a REEIL loan program.

Prebuilt solar homes are advertised at greenhomesforsale.
There are alternate solar panel designs like the solar panel
rack mounted at ground level.
Designers of solar systems must take into consideration
the sun's noontime height above the horizon and the seasonal
changes involving the sun repositioning. Solar panels
may be installed on a garage roof instead of the roof
of the home.

A residential solar system can cost $30T to $40T or $6 to $8.
per watt. Batteries may be needed for backup systems.
Inverters change DC to AC electricity. Air warmed in the
sunspace travels on its own throughout the home. Wing wells can
accelerate the natural breeze in the interior.

Both individuals and businesses generate excess renewable
energy which can be sold to the community as an additional revenue
source. The National Electric Code (NEC)for residential solar
power governs installations under Article 690.Homeowners must
remember to obtain adequate insurance coverage for the solar
installation and any customizations.The volume has an excellent
appendix with extensive drawings throughout and a section on
Energy Efficiency Resources throughout the USA.

This book would be an excellent acquisition for anyone
planning to build or implement solar energy panels on a
residential or industrial property. The cost of the
acquisition is modest at under $20.00.The book is recommended
highly to the readership.

Way too much of a general overview to be useful
This book contains very little actionable information for people who want to begin installing a basic solar power system. If you've never heard of solar power, then this book will provide a bird's eye view of the concepts involved.However, if you want to learn the basics AND obtain enough information to wire a couple of panels, a couple of batteries, and add the controller and inverter to the system, then you better look elsewhere because you are not going to find that level of detail in this book.If you've ever seen a television show about solar powered homes, then you have no need to read this book.

solar power
I was hoping for more basics so I could learn more.too complicated for me.

OK book
Not much in here you wouldn't already know from just watching TV.It does go on to say that mounting a wind generator to the roof of a house is creates a lot of noise. That's all I got out of it.I guess if you know nothing about solar power its worth a few bucks. ... Read more

Product Description
The perfect source for solar power-fully illustrated.

Solar Power (photovoltaics) is now a one-billion-dollar industry, and it-s poised to grow rapidly in the near future as more pressure is placed on limited fossil fuel resources and as advances in solar technology drive down the costs of residential solar systems. This book helps readers understand the basics of solar power and other renewable energy sources, explore whether solar power makes sense for them, what their options are, and what-s involved with installing various on and off-grid systems.
-Fully illustrated
-Covers every conceivable solar-power topic and concern, including updated information on the increasing number of state rebate and incentive programs
... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Need to be better than an idiot.
It was simply not as simple as I thought it might be.However, I have an electric expert as a friend, and between the two of us we can do the job.

Solar Power
Solar Power for Your Home
by David Hughes et al.Alpha Publishers2010

Reviewed by: Dr. Joseph S. Maresca

This is an excellent guide for anyone planning to install
solar energy panels in a home or take advantage of the sale
of excess renewable power to the local electric company .
The work describes solar power functionality
and solar energy at work. The processes described are perfect
for communities and third world countries operating without
public utilities.

The process has a solar energy module consisting of a
charge controller,battery with an offshoot to a DC load
or AC load and an inverter for the AC load.
The payback for the solar system is through a federal tax
credit, solar rebates, selling power to the local utilities
or renewable energy credits.

There are several big initiatives going on right now like
the Million Solar Roofs Initiative. The American Recovery
Reinvestment Act is responsible for solar energy promotion
on federal buildings. Solar energy may be financed
through consumer loans, a 1st or 2nd mortgage, as well as
special federal programs like Title I loans.
Fannie Mae has a REEIL loan program.

Prebuilt solar homes are advertised at greenhomesforsale.
There are alternate solar panel designs like the solar panel
rack mounted at ground level.
Designers of solar systems must take into consideration
the sun's noontime height above the horizon and the seasonal
changes involving the sun repositioning. Solar panels
may be installed on a garage roof instead of the roof
of the home.

A residential solar system can cost $30T to $40T or $6 to $8.
per watt. Batteries may be needed for backup systems.
Inverters change DC to AC electricity. Air warmed in the
sunspace travels on its own throughout the home. Wing wells can
accelerate the natural breeze in the interior.

Both individuals and businesses generate excess renewable
energy which can be sold to the community as an additional revenue
source. The National Electric Code (NEC)for residential solar
power governs installations under Article 690.Homeowners must
remember to obtain adequate insurance coverage for the solar
installation and any customizations.The volume has an excellent
appendix with extensive drawings throughout and a section on
Energy Efficiency Resources throughout the USA.

This book would be an excellent acquisition for anyone
planning to build or implement solar energy panels on a
residential or industrial property. The cost of the
acquisition is modest at under $20.00.The book is recommended
highly to the readership.

Way too much of a general overview to be useful
This book contains very little actionable information for people who want to begin installing a basic solar power system. If you've never heard of solar power, then this book will provide a bird's eye view of the concepts involved.However, if you want to learn the basics AND obtain enough information to wire a couple of panels, a couple of batteries, and add the controller and inverter to the system, then you better look elsewhere because you are not going to find that level of detail in this book.If you've ever seen a television show about solar powered homes, then you have no need to read this book.

solar power
I was hoping for more basics so I could learn more.too complicated for me.

OK book
Not much in here you wouldn't already know from just watching TV.It does go on to say that mounting a wind generator to the roof of a house is creates a lot of noise. That's all I got out of it.I guess if you know nothing about solar power its worth a few bucks. ... Read more

Product Description
Looks at the work of Solar Electricity and explains how solar cells are used for satellite communication systems, to power navigation systems, and to bring water, electricity, and telephones to remote areas around the world. Softcover. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Surveys the fascinating evolution of photovoltaics
From Space To Earth: The Story Of Solar Electricity surveys the fascinating evolution of photovoltaics from its problematic and controversial nineteenth century beginnings to its outstanding technological success in the space program, to the indispensable and versatile role as a power source for contemporary daily life. More than the story of a technology, From Space To Earth is also a chronicle of the individuals who, for the most part unrecognized in the history of science) persevered, took chances, bucked authority, innovated, invented, and crusaded to provide humanity with an infallible power source in the form of solar cells and the safe, clean, renewable energy they provide for everything from satellite communication systems to hot water heaters for the home. Informative and thoroughly "reader friendly", John Perlin's From Space To Earth is highly recommended reading and an important addition to any academic or public library history of science collection.

Hooray for Photovoltaics!
Finally, here is a book about an environmental topic that isn't depressing.In fact, it's so uplifting that you may find yourself pumping your arm and cheering. Perlin keeps it light on the solid-state physics and instead chronicles the social, economical, and political issuessurrounding the application of photovoltaics.He explains advances intechnology clearly and with no jargon. This book should be highly enjoyableeven for those who flunked P-chem.

From Space to Earth: The Story of Solar Electricity
Have you ever asked yourself "Who discovered the photovoltaic effect?".Or maybe you are interested in knowing how the PV industry started and who were the early PV pioneers. Well, look no further, because all of thisinformation and much more make up From Space To Earth: The Story of SolarElectricity by John Perlin.

Several years after writing his first bookon solar energy, Mr. Perlin uses From Space to Earth to reflect on thechalleges the PV industry and it's early pioneers faced in developing,implementing and introducing a new technology to the World.Personalinterviews and historical information are utilized to relay the story of PVtechnology and the people who helped turn it into a thriving industry thathelps to meet the electrical needs of people around the globe.

The futureof the PV industy is also addressed and the author expresses his opinionson what the future should hold for photovoltaics.From his support forBuilding Intergrated Photovoltaics (BI-PV) and distributed generation, tothe easy to understand reviews of advances in solar-electric cell andmodule production, the author provides up to date information on where theindustry stands and where it is heading.

I highly recommend this book toanyone interested in the application of solar-electricity or solar energyin general. ... Read more

Product Description
This straight-talking book cuts through the green energy hype and explains how grid-connected homeowners can be smart about their energy future. Solar and wind-generated electricity, solar water heating, passive solar techniques and geothermal heating/cooling will enable homeowners to become self-sufficient while protecting themselves from rising utility rates and grid blackouts. With financial incentives now available, the time is perfect to utilize nature's free energy.

Table of Contents
- Why Invest in Renewable Energy
- Is It Legal and Safe
- How Solar Electricity Works
- Grid-tied Solar and Wind System Options, with and without batteries
- Sizing Your Solar / Wind System
- What Does It Cost
- Any Financial Help Out There
- Permits & Paperwork
- Nuts & Bolts: What to Look For, What to Avoid
- Who Does the Solar/Wind Installation
- Using the Sun's Warmth to Heat Your Home (NEW)
- Solar Water Heating Systems (NEW)
- Geothermal Heating & Cooling (NEW)
- Extensive Appendix includes manufacturers, associations, reference web sites, state energy offices, worksheets, glossary and more ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

sunny
Very informative and easy to read. Recommend this for everybody who would like to make a change in using energy.

A fine addition to any environmental studies collection
GOT SUN? GO SOLAR offers homes on the grid many options for getting off the grid in an updated, expanded new second edition. Any library appealing to homeowners interested in alternative residential solar energy will find this a fine pick: easy to read, packed with information related in a non-technical manner, and offering tips on how grid-connected homeowners can make good future energy decisions. ... Read more

Product Description

Photovoltaics, the direct conversion of sunlight to electricity, is now the fastest growing technology for electricity generation. Present "first generation" products use the same silicon wafers as in microelectronics. "Second generation" thin-films, now entering the market, have the potential to greatly improve the economics by eliminating material costs. Martin Green, one of the world’s foremost photovoltaic researchers, argues in this book that "second generation" photovoltaics will eventually reach its own material cost constraints, engendering a "third generation" of high performance thin-films. The book explores, self-consistently, the energy conversion potential of advanced approaches for improving photovoltaic performance and outlines possible implementation paths.

Customer Reviews (1)

Third Generation Photovoltaics: Advanced Solar Energy Conversion (Springer Series in Photonics)
Martin Green has done it again.Just what the researcher and applications scientist needs.Well done!
Third Generation Photovoltaics: Advanced Solar Energy Conversion (Springer Series in Photonics)
... Read more

Product Description
Defines energy and examines how energy from the sun provides us with heat, light, plants, food and other things necessary for life on Earth. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great Book
This was perfect for my first grader in our study about the sun.Short enough and enough pictures to keep her interest and full of information that sticks for her age.I recommend it. ... Read more

Product Description
Passive solar design techniques are becoming increasingly important in building design. This design reference book takes the building engineer or physicist step-by-step through the thermal analysis and design of passive solar buildings. In particular it emphasizes two important topics: the maximum utilization of available solar energy and thermal storage, and the sizing of an appropriate auxiliary heating/cooling system in conjunction with good thermal control.
Topics include:
* transient heat transfer and thermal storage
* fenestration components, systems and daylighting
* dynamic models of heat transfer in solar buildings
* the passive response of solar buildings and its use in design
* ventilation and indoor air quality
* analysis and sizing of small auxiliary heating/cooling systems
* control of passive solar buildings
* solar energy utilization techniques and systems

"Thermal Analysis and Design of Passive Solar Buildings" is an important contribution towards the optimization of buildings as systems that act as natural filters between the indoor and outdoor environments, while maximizing the utilization of solar energy. As such it will be an essential source of information to engineers, architects, HVAC engineers and building physicists. ... Read more

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It is rare that a book draws together the knowledge and experience of scientists, each a world leader in their discipline, to create a work that presents the state of the art in a field as rich and diverse as solar energy.
In Solar Energy -- the State of the Art this aim has been achieved. The book comprises 12 individual chapters, each dedicated to one of the major solar energy sub-disciplines and authored by an internationally recognized expert in the field. Areas covered range from solar radiation and meteorology, solar collectors and concentrators, solar energy and the built environment, to solar thermal electricity, photovoltaics, wind energy and the potential cost of ignoring solar energy resources. The papers examine the technology and field in question, discuss the rudiments and major applications, review the current science and technology and explore the remaining challenges for the future.

TOPICS include:
*solar and natural resources for a better efficiency in the built environment
*glazings and coatings
*selectively solar-absorbing coatings
*solar collectors
*solar water heating
*photovoltaic physics and devices
*solar concentrators
*the cost of pollution and the benefit of solar energy
*solar process heat: distillation, drying, agricultural and industrial uses
*solar resource assessment: a review
*solar thermal electricity
*wind energy review

Solar Energy -- the State of the Art is an essential reference work for all solar energy practitioners, students, researchers and engineers wishing to gain a broad-based understanding of the theory, technology, applications and issues surrounding the broad, interdisciplinary field of solar energy. The book will form an important component of any library’s solar energy holding and will be of particular benefit as an academic reference, as well as being of practical value to professionals who wish to gain a clear understanding of the concepts required to move forward in this field.

Solar Energy -- the State of the Art is an initiative of the International Solar Energy Society (ISES). ... Read more

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Nanostructured Materials for Solar Energy Conversion covers a wide variety of materials and device types from inorganic materials to organic materials. This book deals with basic semiconductor physics, modelling of nanostructured solar cell, nanostructure of conventional solar cells such as silicon, CIS and CdTe, dye-sensitized solar cell, organic solar cell, photosynthetic materials, fullerene, extremely thin absorber (ETA) solar cell, quantum structured solar cell, intermediate band solar cell, carbon nanotube, etc. including basic principle and the latest results. There are many books written on conventional p-n junction solar cells, but few books focus on new concepts in this area.

* Focuses on the use of nanostructured materials for solar energy
* Looks at a wide variety of materials and device types
* Covers both organic and inorganic materials ... Read more

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A thin-film solar cell (TFSC), also called a thin-film photovoltaic cell (TFPV), is a solar cell that is made by depositing one or more thin layers (thin film) of photovoltaic material on a substrate. This book deals with some physical properties of Sulfur binary and ternary thin films used as buffer and absorber layers in solar cells and prepared using economic spray pyrolysis technique. This book also investigates some thermal properties of Zn-doped binary thin films used as solar cells buffer layers and prepared using economic techniques. Other chapters in this book describe the development of diverging band gap amorphous silicon materials and their optoelectronic properties, the unique one ampoule Bridgman method, as well as the cleavage and twinning characteristics of the single crystals and how they are influenced by annealing, etching, deviation from stoichiometric starting proportions and by the addition of sodium. This book also investigates emerging trends that might lead to additional commercial c-Si thin-film solar cells after 2010. ... Read more

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‘Michael Zaretsky’s Precedents in Zero-Energy Design is such an important book … it will help readers recognize that design comes before technology – and renewable energy systems alone can’t solve the problems we face’

John D. Quale, Assistant Professor of Architecture and ecoMOD Project Director, University of Virginia

The world is currently facing an environmental crisis and as anyone interested in sustainable or zero-energy design knows the design and building industries have the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the globe.

The Solar Decathlon is an international event in which universities from around the world compete in the design and construction of a one-bedroom, zero-energy house. This book provides an in-depth, yet accessible analysis of the architecture and passive design strategies of the houses in the 2007 Solar Decathlon. These houses are the result of thousands of hours of research and development from twenty universities around the world. Divided into three parts, the book provides:

• an initial section investigating the architecture, passive design and systems layout of the twenty houses;
• a diagrammatic comparison of the architecture and passive design characteristics of each of the twenty houses in order of ranking by the Architecture, Comfort Zone and overall scores received in the competition;
• a deep analysis of the relationship between architecture, passive design and mechanical systems design as compared to the rankings received in the various contests. This analysis considers the decisions made by the competing teams and highlights the success of the design strategies employed.

Students, educators, practitioners and researchers of architecture, design and engineering will find this an informative and inspirational book. It examines the relationship between design and environmental principles and provides invaluable insight into some of the most innovative, off-the-grid and zero-energy houses in the world.

With a Foreword by John D. Quale, Assistant Professor of Architecture and ecoMOD Project Director, University of Virginia