Solar Energy, Photovoltaics, and Domestic Hot Water (eBook)

An invaluable resource that provides an in-depth evaluation of the payback and investment advantages of using photovoltaic (PV) or solar domestic hot water (DHW) systems versus conventional systems

Russell H Plante, Engineering Physicist, Applied Technologies, Inc. A former project engineer in Kalwall Corp.'s Solar Division and DOD Branch Head in Control Engineering, Russell was appointed by the University of Maine to advise and assist the Physics Department in providing an industrial perspective for quality education. A skilled technical writer and project manager, he has received awards for Solar Building Engineering Design from the State of Maine Office of Energy Resources and from the U.S. Department of Energy for Energy Innovation Technologies

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Solar Energy, Photovoltaics, and Domestic Hot Water provides a fundamental understanding of heat and energy conversions and of both solar domestic hot water system types with associated components and photovoltaic/inverter system combinations. It provides the information needed to determine and understand the proper siting requirements, the amount of energy needed (based upon usage), the amount of solar energy available, the methods of comparing collectors for both hot water and photovoltaic situations, and the number of collectors necessary for either hot water or electricity. Solar Energy, Photovoltaics, and Domestic Hot Water also details the investment and cost savings advantages of using solar energy through a unique compilation of information and explanations not available in other publications or on the internet. This includes comprehensive financial explanations with examples using basic engineering management analysis methods. These examples include present and future worth relative to break-even costs and cash flow analysis and actual quoted systems and worksheets for typical electrical solar PV and DHW demand scenarios allowing you to calculate your own cost estimates and to evaluate your own projects relative to investment payback. Solar Energy, Photovoltaics, and Domestic Hot Water will enable readers make informed decisions about the economic practicality of solar generation sources for residential or commercial use based upon location, energy demands, associated conventional fuel costs, solar energy system costs, and tax incentives. Provides a fundamental understanding of solar DHW and photovoltaic systems Uses clear guidelines to evaluate solar DHW and photovoltaic systems' value as a long-term investment vs traditional power and heat generation methods Discusses cost and operating expenses relative to investment and return on capital which will be beneficial to project planners, installers, energy managers, builders and property owners