Learn About Solar

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How Can I Learn About Solar Electricity?

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How Can I Learn About Solar Electricity?
© Copyright 1993 By Charlie Collins From "Ask Mr. Solar" Column Published 9/19/93 Daily Spectrum

Question: I want to install a solar electric stand by system. I have a little experience in the normal AC electricity. I do not know anything about solar electrical panels, storage of electricity or inverters. Where can I learn some practical information.

Jim Bailey, Miami, Fla.

Mr. Solar: Jim, Jim, as I see it you have several choices to learn about solar electricity. I feel the best choice is to attend an alternative energy school. They are in many parts of the country, however the largest and best one is in Colorado. They cover all areas of alternative energy in depth. The student gets a good understanding of the subject. You will learn the choices of equipment that are available.

Another good choice you have is to locate someone in your area that uses a solar electrical system. I would also contact your local building inspector and perhaps they can help you in finding someone. Then visit them and learn first hand what mistakes they have made and what you should look out for. Then ask whom they recommend for installation of a system for you.

Another choice you have is to research solar energy yourself. You can go to your local library and study what is available. In other words you can teach yourself. Then you can install a system yourself. This is probably the best way. That way you will learn through trial and error as we have done.

The poorest and most expensive way to learn about solar electricity is to buy from a "suit-case salesman". They will promise you whatever you want, but may fail to deliver. This therefore becomes a very expensive experience and you may not have a working system. We have always tried to help our friends in this area so that they will avoid problems. This is what has given solar such a bad rap in many areas of the country. Jim, please search out good and reliable people before you invest your hard earned moneys. When you have found good people to work with in your area you will be a happy solar user.

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