Latest news with #EnergySage
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
Scientists achieve astonishing breakthrough that could unlock next-gen energy source: 'Approaching the theoretical limit'
Scientists achieve astonishing breakthrough that could unlock next-gen energy source: 'Approaching the theoretical limit' Researchers at the Los Alamos National Laboratory have discovered a way to enhance the light-absorption and light-emission qualities of quantum dots: a kind of semiconductor crystal developed to convert photons, or light particles, into energy. Their research, published in the Nature Communications journal after years of study, focused on optimizing the carrier multiplication process — that is, the process by which a single photon entering a semiconductor material can excite multiple electrons — in order to enhance the efficiency of the energy conversion. Through the introduction of magnetic manganese impurities that modify the properties of the quantum dots, the team designed a system that operated on spin exchange carrier multiplication, a step up from conventional carrier multiplication in terms of efficiency. "Power conversion efficiency simulations from the study predict that this method could achieve an efficiency increase of up to 41%, which is approaching the theoretical limit for fully optimized devices utilizing conventional carrier multiplication," the researchers noted. While the study speaks relatively in the abstract regarding the potential applications of the team's discovery in photochemistry, the improvement of conventional carrier multiplication methods has even more pressing relevance in the realm of solar cell research. As it stands, solar panels aren't capable of converting even half their absorbed sunlight into usable electricity, but as they become more and more mainstream on rooftops and solar farms alike, researchers across disciplines are finding ways to boost their photoconversion capacity. In particular, as the changing climate continues to manifest in the form of rising temperatures, volatile weather patterns, and resource scarcity, diversifying our clean energy sources becomes all the more essential. Carbon pollution is the leading cause of our planet's overheating crisis, and the power sector alone contributes over 44 billion tons of it each year, according to the International Energy Agency. There are a variety of alternatives to dirty fuels out there, ranging from wind power to nuclear energy, but solar panels are by far the most accessible for the average consumer. As a matter of fact, by going solar, you can take advantage of cutting-edge clean energy innovations from the comfort of your home, setting yourself up for a financially as well as environmentally conscious choice. If you're struggling to get started, tools like EnergySage can connect you with the best local installation services suited to your needs while saving you up to $10,000 on the process. What would it take for you to get rid of your gas stove? I'd pay for it myself Give me the new stove for free I'd need at least $2K I already have an electric stove Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Energy expert dismantles common misconception holding homeowners back from rooftop solar: 'That's not really true'
Energy expert dismantles common misconception holding homeowners back from rooftop solar: 'That's not really true' Many homeowners still believe that solar panels don't work on cloudy days, but energy expert James Fenton explained, "That's not really true." "Even on a very cloudy or rainy day, you'll get some electricity," Fenton, director of the Florida Solar Energy Center, told CNET. "But on real cloudy days, you might only get half as much electricity as you would on a sunny day." The reality is that solar panels continue producing power even when the sun isn't shining brightly. While performance drops without direct sunlight, panels don't just shut off when skies turn gray. Interest in using solar energy is growing fast, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association, as solar accounted for 66% of new U.S. electricity-generating capacity in 2024. If you're solar-curious, a smart place to start is by using EnergySage's free tools to get instant estimates and compare quotes from trustworthy installers. Solar panels use photovoltaic cells to turn sunlight into electricity, and they don't require full sun to do it. "The panel is always working," Fenton said. He added that the amount of electricity generated is based on how much light it can utilize to produce it. While output drops to near zero at night, even small amounts of ambient light can sometimes generate trace energy. To power your home after the sun has set, solar users can add a battery system or stay connected to the grid and use net metering to offset costs. Going solar can be one of the best ways to lower monthly energy bills while also cutting down on planet-overheating pollution. With solar panels on your roof, your home can run more cleanly and efficiently, helping reduce your reliance on dirty energy. Another reason to act soon is to take advantage of the Federal Investment Tax Credit, which allows homeowners to deduct 30% of the cost of installing a solar system for their home. Upon the passing of the Big Beautiful Bill, though, this incentive is set to expire on December 31, 2025. What would it take for you to get rid of your gas stove? I'd pay for it myself Give me the new stove for free I'd need at least $2K I already have an electric stove Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. According to EnergySage, the average solar customer can secure up to $10,000 in savings by claiming the ITC and other incentives. To make the most of those benefits, EnergySage also offers a state-by-state mapping tool that breaks down the average cost of solar panels in your area and shows exactly which local and federal incentives may be available to you. The bottom line is that installing solar panels is an energy hack that can drive your electricity bill close to zero. Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Homeowner searches for legal answers after power-hungry HOA makes questionable decision: 'The law is pretty clear'
Homeowner searches for legal answers after power-hungry HOA makes questionable decision: 'The law is pretty clear' A homeowner took to Reddit for advice after their homeowners association denied their request to install solar panels on their house. The original poster shared that their HOA would not allow them to install a solar system because the panels would be on the front of the house and visible to passersby. The OP was concerned about changing the configuration of the proposed panels because it would cut their energy production by about 25%. Many HOAs try to prevent homeowners from installing solar panels on their properties for aesthetic reasons. But the OP linked to the specific Florida statute that blocks HOAs or other entities from taking action that would obstruct or reduce the efficiency of homeowners' renewable energy systems. That law indicates the homeowner is well within their rights to go ahead with a solar panel installation. It is the ultimate home energy hack and can reduce utility bills to nearly or sometimes even beyond $0, with the utility supplier paying some customers for excess energy sent back to the grid. EnergySage is one of the best companies helping homeowners shopping for solar panels to get the most bang for their buck. In fact, the average person can get up to $10,000 in incentives for purchase and installation. However, it's important to act fast, as Congress voted to end the solar tax credit by the end of the year. As projects take about 12 weeks from commissioning to completion, it's important to start as soon as possible if you want to guarantee yourself the thousands in benefits before it's too late. EnergySage's free tools can provide quick solar installation estimates and help homeowners compare quotes, like comparison shopping for insurance or travel plans. Its free mapping tool shows the average cost of solar panels in each state. Commenters wanted more information about the situation, asking about the orientation of the house and the placement of the panels. "Is the front 'south facing'?" asked one user who read that the panels are on the front of the OP's home. "If it's [east, north, or west] facing they may have more grounds to complain." The commenter cited the Florida statute that the OP had linked. The OP responded to confirm that the house faces south. They also mentioned that they had consulted a lawyer. "The lawyer I talked to said they are 100% in the wrong and can't deny because it would affect how the system works," replied the homeowner. "And the law is pretty clear on it so he says." Which of these factors is the biggest obstacle preventing you from getting solar panels? The upfront cost The way they look Not sure where to start No concerns here! Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
24-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
IKEA sparks excitement after launching roofless solar panel kits: 'Have wanted something like this forever'
IKEA has long been a pioneer in making stylish home goods accessible, but now the Swedish company is turning its sights to the energy market. In an exciting move for eco-conscious homeowners, T3 reported that IKEA has launched a new solar panel system designed for balconies. It promises an easy, affordable way to harness solar energy without the complicated installation or other costs often associated with traditional systems. The starter package includes two 450-watt solar panels and uses a "plug-and-play" system, which will appeal to people who want solar energy without the hassle. There's also the option to add smart meters and plugs to monitor usage, offering users a way to view and control how much energy they're generating. For reference, a single 450-watt panel can generate enough energy to power small appliances without much of an issue, according to EnergySage. These IKEA panels are only available in Germany, but the company has suggested that it's a starting point, with plans to bring the kits to other markets soon. What's most exciting about this development is the price. Solar panels have long been synonymous with high upfront costs, but IKEA is offering a more approachable option. With a system priced at €449 — a little over $500 USD — the company has opened the door for more people to adopt clean, affordable energy, and that could make all the difference in tackling both energy bills and pollution. The environmental benefits are clear. Harnessing solar power not only reduces household energy costs, but it also helps cut down on the pollution created by traditional energy sources, such as burning coal. Which of these factors is the biggest obstacle preventing you from getting solar panels? The upfront cost The way they look Not sure where to start No concerns here! Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. It's clear that this launch has struck a chord with many people eager to make the switch to cleaner energy without the complexity. One Reddit user summed it up perfectly: "I can't wait until this is available in the U.S. (hopefully). We have a second floor condo in Philadelphia and rooftop solar isn't feasible with our neighbors rooftop deck. [We] have wanted something like this forever to reduce our dirty energy consumption and dependency." For anyone who's interested in solar energy but unsure where to start, EnergySage offers a free platform to help people compare quotes and explore installation options. And if you've been thinking about installing solar, now is the time to act. The federal Investment Tax Credit, which offers a 30% tax incentive on solar panel installations, ends on December 31, 2025. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Yahoo
22-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Homeowner stunned after receiving first 'surprise' electric bill since installing solar panels: 'Is this normal?'
Solar panels are a big, on-trend deal in the energy world. According to a 2024 statistic shared by the Solar Energy Industries Association, the United States produces approximately 248 gigawatts of solar energy annually, enough to power around 41 million households. This is largely because implementing solar energy sources in a home is a clean and green way to protect our planet while saving consumers loads of cash on energy bills. One Reddit user, for example, was shocked by their low first electric bill since installing solar panels. They shared their experience on the r/Solar subreddit. The scoop "Surprise," they titled their post, "first electric bill after a full month of service." The poster shared a screengrab of their bill, which showed impressive natural energy overproduction. The consumer, whose home has an area of 2,600 square feet, used 425 kilowatt-hours of energy and put 800 kWh back into the grid. They were credited with around 400 kWh for use on less sunny days. Their usage charge was only $15.53. This high energy production and low bill are reasons enough to go solar, and those looking to make the switch could use resources like EnergySage, which offers consumers tools for solar installation and quote comparison. "I'm not complaining but is this normal?" the Reddit poster mused. Commenters informed the poster that this can be pretty typical, although cloudy or snowy months may show a higher bill. How it's helping Consumers can save up to $1,500 a year by going solar. Solar panels can potentially lower energy bills to $0, but government incentives are in place that can save consumers money on solar installations. What would it take for you to get rid of your gas stove? I'd pay for it myself Give me the new stove for free I'd need at least $2K I already have an electric stove Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Those considering going solar should act sooner rather than later, as the currently implemented 30% Investment Tax Credit is now scheduled to end after 2025, and projects must be fully installed, which can take about 12 weeks. One resource that is not going anywhere, however, is EnergySage. The company's free quote comparison service has reportedly saved consumers up to $10,000 on solar installations. While solar-using consumers save money, they also lower their carbon footprints and indirectly impact the environment by reducing the production of greenhouse gases in their households, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. What everyone's saying Many commenters were happy for the poster and related to them about their energy output with solar panels. "Good work," one commenter said, "the longer days are paying off. For me, Jan solar was 42kWh over grid used, and Feb was 340kWh solar over grid." Another said: "This is amazing—glad it's working so well for you!" Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
