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Personal Guide to Install Solar at Home: Part 2 – System Type and Budgeting

January 13, 2021 No Comments
home solar system

In the first instalment of our ‘Personal Guide to Installing Solar at Home’ series, we covered the initial steps needed to Go Solar. We delved on how to weigh your choices and check how much energy your home consumes, to help with the solar system installation process. Here is the second part of the five-part series on your personal guide to installing solar at home.

Nearly any roof is appropriate for solar use with emerging technologies, barring any restrictions the infrastructure imposes. It’s a matter of which solar technology better suits the home. In the second article, we will cover the type of solar panel installation you could choose from, and metrics for determining your budget.

Step 3: Grid-Connected vs Off-Grid vs Hybrid

Grid-Connected Systems

On-grid or grid-connected solar installations are the most popular and commonly deployed in residences. These systems do not require batteries and are connected to the public electricity grid, using either solar inverters or micro-inverters. Any surplus solar energy you produce is added to the electricity grid. The electricity exported is compensated by a feed-in tariff (FiT) or credits. If the photovoltaic panels do not generate enough electricity to meet your consumption needs, the difference will be sourced automatically from the grid.

Advantages

1) Virtual battery

The electric power grid is indeed a battery in many respects, with little need for upgrades or repairs and comparatively better efficiency values. In other words, with traditional battery systems, more electricity gets lost.

2) Save money with the help of net-metering

Most of the times, photovoltaic systems produce more electricity than you can use. House owners could transfer this extra electricity into the power grid with the help of net metering, rather than storing it in batteries. Net metering is a process for billing which credits owners of solar energy systems for the electricity they contribute to the grid.

For instance, a residential homeowner has a photovoltaic system on his rooftop, during the daytime, the system produces more power than his home requires.In that case, the electricity meter will operate backwards if the home is net-metered. It offers a credit against what energy is used at nighttime or other times where the electricity consumption of the home exceeds the output of the system. Then, the customer is charged only for the use of ‘net’ electricity. From a financial perspective, without net metering, rooftop solar costs will be less feasible. Some utilities are dedicated to purchasing power from customers at the same price they sell it.

Off-Grid Systems

An off-grid system is not linked to the electricity grid. Hence, battery storage is necessary.

Advantages

1) Access to electricity

In some locations, where there is no access to the grid, off-grid solar panels can be a better option, rather than extending power lines. Through off-grid solar systems, residents who live in places disconnected from the grid can save money. These systems make it possible that consumers do not have to pay extra to connect to the grid. It offers individuals the right to live anywhere and being able to generate and manage electricity.

2) Self-sufficient electricity production

Without any notice, power outages can spring up. Losing control means going without electricity, which can be a short-term problem and an exceedingly frustrating long-term interruption. A power failure can always be over as soon as it occurs, but the lack of energy will often last longer. Many times, depending on the origin of the outages and the amount of time it takes to resume service, it can continue for a day or even weeks.

Power failures in the utility grid do not harm off-grid solar installations.   As these devices store electricity and are still ready for future crises, off-grid solar energy systems are useful during blackout scenarios. In the wake of any possible incidents, a household with an off-grid solar photovoltaic system could continue to have electricity.

Hybrid Systems

Hybrid solar systems incorporate the best solar technologies from grid-tied and off-grid. These systems can be represented either as off-grid solar with utility backup capacity, or grid-tied solar with additional storage of batteries.

Advantages

1) Less costly compared to off-grid solar systems

Hybrid solar structures are less costly than off-grid systems since you do not need a backup generator. The battery bank’s power can be downsized.

2) Smart solar has a bright future

Hybrid solar systems have started opening for many exciting developments. New inverters allow residents to reap the benefits of differences in the utility electricity prices throughout the day with the help of the battery storage systems.

Step 4: Determine your Budget

Think about the following points while budgeting for your solar system:

  • Like we stated in the first part of this guide series, you might have to estimate the load and determine the type of system that suits your requirements. After doing this, you would be able to estimate how much the installation of a solar system at your home would cost you.
  • Calculate your earnings and your expenditures, your expectations and your preferences, and determine the amount of money that you should potentially set together for your residential investment which can give you returns upto 30% with a payback period of 4-5 years.
  • Other than your personal goals, your professional solar contractor will help you assess what your project might look like. Reach out to HomeScape to help you with all your solar installation needs.

In conclusion, the second part of our personal guide series talked about the type of systems you could get (Grid-Connected vs Off-Grid vs Hybrid) and the points you should keep in mind while budgeting for your solar system. Since 2010, the cost of photovoltaic solar energy has reduced by 82 per cent. So, this would be the right time to consider purchasing a rooftop solar system. Watch out this space for the next part of our blog series on your Personal Guide to Installing Solar at Home.

Read about Part-1 of the Five-part series – https://homescape.solar/personal-guide-to-install-solar-at-home-part-1-system-type/

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COVID-19 Safety Practices in Installation of Residential Solar Systems

November 24, 2020 4 Comments
safety practices for solar installation

COVID-19 has changed the process of working in industrial, institutional, government, private and all other sectors. Working remotely is the “New-Normal” since the pandemic started. With the pandemic at bay, the government of India has released the lockdown in various working sectors including the energy sector. Due to increasing time spent at home, a large number of homeowners are opting for residential rooftop solar to reduce their electricity bills and to utilize their terraces to spend time. The installation process of residential solar systems is now done with complete precaution and in a hygienic manner as recommended by various health organizations.

MAINTAINING HYGIENE WHILE INSTALLING RESIDENTIAL SOLAR PANEL:

The Initial Stage:

For installing solar panels on the roof of your home, the first step would be to conduct a complete survey of the roof. Contactless site visits are made to conduct surveys of residential solar systems. At HomeScape, digital meters are used to measure the dimensions of the rooftop instead of measuring tapes, making it a contactless site visit.

installing solar panels on the roof

The Second Stage:

In the second stage, the residential solar system is designed remotely and the products are delivered to the site of the residential solar system installation. All the products are sanitized, safely packed and sent to the location. Till this stage, there is no physical contact and interaction with customers. HomeScape uses its own dedicated truck for delivering the items and ensures high level of safety and hygiene during transportation.

delivery of equipments

Third Stage:

After the product delivery, the engineers and technicians assigned to the installation, visit the location. All employees of HomeScape are trained to maintain social distancing and hygiene.

installing solar panels on the roof

MAINTAINING HYGIENE DURING SOLAR INSTALLATION:

These are some guidelines that has to be followed while installing solar panels on the roof, during the installation process.

  1. The team members have to mandatorily wear N-95 masks, throughout the installation period.
  2. The members should wear gloves and commit to all the necessary protective gears for the installation.
  3. The members should carry sanitizers and sanitize their hands frequently avoiding unnecessary interaction with the customers.
  4. The equipment used in the installation process should be sanitized regularly.
  5. All the members should go through medical tests to carry out their work.
  6. Any member who is sick should not continue his /her work installing the residential solar system. They should home quarantine for at least 14 days to ensure safety of other crew members.
  7. The crew members should avoid unnecessary conversations with other crew members.
  8. The members of the team should maintain 6ft distance from each other.
  9. The members should  bring his/her own belongings (bottles, lunchbox) if needed and avoid borrowing things from other team members.
  10. The employees should follow the basic health hygiene, as advised by the W.H.O and other Federal Health Organizations.

AFTER INSTALLATION OF RESIDENTIAL SOLAR SYSTEMS:

After installing the solar panels, the residential solar system is connected to the grid .Details of generation of energy and the import and export are monitored on HomeScape Monitoring app. The documentation process regarding the liaisoning with the DISCOMS is done completely online eliminating the fear of virus through the physical documents.

homescape monitoring app
The company encourages Work-From-Home and only the necessary team members are allowed to work offline. However, there are certain situations that require human intervention while installing solar panels on the roof. Accordingly, the engineers and technicians are trained well to take precautionary measures. The customer has no chances of getting affected by the virus. The need of the hour is to follow the guidelines laid down by the government to ensure safety and protection. With all the operations resuming gradually, it is very important that we abide to the guidelines, stay in our own bubble and help in reducing the intensity of the situation.

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Improve Home Aesthetics using Solar Panels at Home

November 10, 2020 5 Comments
homescape atrium solar pergola

Having solar panels in the house says a lot about the lifestyle of the residents. It indicates that they are not only conscious of the environment but also about their wallets. Solar panels are now one of the most aesthetical and environmentally friendly solutions for every sustainable home.  At the same time, the current climate crisis has made us realized the importance of renewable sources of energy. Solar technology has proven to be the best option both in terms of economic & commercial viability. Solar energy is an environmentally viable option, it uses naturally occurring renewable resources like sunlight, unlike conventional energy-generating resources that use coal. They are entirely self-dependent devices. It is also pocket-friendly for a household to generate solar energy and if the generation exceeds consumption, you can give back to the electrical grid (in case of a net-metered connection) and earn credits, which can be used/ redeemed in subsequent months.  Unfortunately, many people find solar panels bulky and less appealing for a house. But with the advent of technology, this is changing. The innovations in designs have brought up a range of aesthetically beautiful solar panels. This has increased the demand for these aesthetic solar plants. 

Here are some of the ways with which you can aesthetically improve your open spaces of your home using solar panels: – 

1. Unused roofs/ Flat roofs

 Roofs play an important role in Indian households, but many times they are often left unused and unoccupied. With a growing space crunch in the city life, there is a need to utilize every part of our homes into usable spaces. Why only dry clothes on roofs when you can install solar panels and instead generate green electricity to power your home.  Terra is a conventional Homescape standard rooftop solar power system that is about 3 feet high. It can be installed over roof objects like water tanks, AC vents, etc. This way rooftop solar panels at home can make your unutilized roof space into a space of worth which is also powering your home.

For people who want more than solar, if they want to transform their open spaces into terrace gardens, sit-outs, etc.  they can go for Atrium – The Flagship Solar pergola.  Atrium is a pergola styled solar plant by HomeScape. This elegantly designed solar power system can run the entire home on green energy. With a beautiful wooden finish exterior, steel-reinforced for strength and durability, this solar pergola acts as a perfect solution for people looking to beautify their homes with solar. The structure made to last for 25 years, can also withstand harsh weather conditions.   

2. Parking Spaces/ Canopies

We often spend a hefty amount on covered parking areas or benched areas and driveways. These dormant spaces can be turned into monetizing units by adopting Aerial by HomeScape. It is an elevated canopy style rooftop solar power system that is about 9 feet high. It is a powder-coated and corrosion-resistant structure that gives it a long life. This makes our dormant spaces usable throughout the day.

3. Porches/ Outdoor seating/ Backyards

These spaces are linked to the indoor spaces nearby. In summers, these spaces can be used as active spaces to hang out throughout the day. But in areas where the sun is harsh, using them throughout is not a feasible option. In such scenarios, one opts for a Gazebo or some form of an enclosure.   These enclosures are dormant elements that add only aesthetics to your outdoors. On the contrary, the Atrium by Homescape can be an ideal option to make these enclosures both aesthetical and functional in a sustainable manner. 

You can set up space as

Dining areas –  

  • For a dining space design, a sleek table along with required chairs or stools can solve the seating requirements. Care should be taken that these furniture elements are weather and termite-proof like the Atrium Solar pergola by Homescape, as they would be semi-exposed.  
  • For making the space more usable during barbeques and family dinners, a deck with a separate zone for a barbeque or cooking purpose can give the space an appealing look. 
  • Adequate storage elements like low raised cupboards for storing kitchenware and cleaning products give more usability. 
  • For making the space more aesthetic, landscaping and, gardening can be done. The column reinforcements of the Atrium are distanced such that they give a floaty look to the design and make it aesthetically feasible to plants hanging pots and climbers all over it. This makes your home aesthetic as well as sustainable. 
  • For lighting purposes, pendant lights are an ideal option to illuminate the space during evenings. For the dining table, a chandelier can also be installed to give a proper hierarchy to the ceiling. Stairs or levels can be lined with LED strip lights to add a dynamic touch.

Recreational zone/ Leisure space –  

Many houses use their porches or outdoor areas for recreational purposes. The purpose could be for exercising or rejuvenation. 

  • For the recreational zone with a Solar Pergola, space can be designed as per the activity. Rooftop solar panels at home act as a hybrid of indoor+outdoor spaces.
  • For exercise, space can be kept with minimal furnishing and more green factors like plants. Plants on the ground & hanging pots on the pergola can give a calm feel to the space. 
  • For reading and rejuvenation, space can have more furnishings and seating spaces. Furniture needs to be such that it is comfortable to sit or lie down and read. For rejuvenation, sculptures and artworks can be an active part of the space decor.
  • Lighting plays an important role in recreational spaces, for reading spaces, downlights, and pendant lights can be used. For rejuvenation, mild shades of downlights can add a sense of calm and visibility.

Solar designs have now reached a new era where there is a balance between aesthetics and functionality. The customization of Solar energy through HomeScape has given us more options to explore and make our homes into beautiful eco-homes.

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10 steps to installing solar on your rooftop

October 6, 2020 2 Comments
patio

If you have been wondering about installing solar panels, then there’s no better time than now to do so. The price of solar panels, and hence solar PV systems has significantly decreased. Getting solar panels for house nowadays is a lot economical and convenient than before. 

How can you install a solar plant on your rooftop?

Here are ten simple steps for the installation of a solar photovoltaic system on your rooftop: 

1) Evaluate your options 

There are a few points to remember and take account of before installing solar panels on homes. 

  • Do you have space for installing solar panels on your rooftop? How much is it? 
  • Will the sun shine bright on your space during hours of daylight? 
  • Is your roof structurally strong enough to support solar panels and their structure weight?  
  • How much of the area is covered by shade? 
  • What type of solar panel for the house you would like to install (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, thin-film, bifacial, PERC)? 

2) Load calculation and energy audit 

How much energy does your home consume? 

Now that you’ve weighed your choices, the next move is to determine how much electricity you would require after installing a solar plant at your home. Calculate the following with the help of our simple DIY calculation guide: 

  1. Solar System Capacity 
  2. Area requirement for Your Solar System 
  3. Payback Period for Your Solar System

Estimate how much electricity the solar panel for house needs to generate with the help of an energy audit. Energy audits, in general, helps you to: 

  • Reduce your monthly energy bill by doing away with excessive use 
  • Decide how much solar energy you require 
  • Meet a crucial condition for some tax credits, rebates, and loans

3) Grid-Connected vs Off-Grid vs Hybrid 

A grid-connected system is a type of installation where solar panels are linked to the electrical grid. Solar energy thus produced is used. If your solar plant does not produce enough electricity to satisfy the consumption requirements, the difference will be automatically sourced from the grid.  An off-grid system is not linked to the power grid. Hence, battery storage is necessary. A hybrid system integrates solar and battery storage in one, and are now accessible in various setups and forms. 

4) Estimate your budget 

After calculating and determining what kind of solution suits your optimal rooftop solar design specifications, you can quickly estimate how much the process of installing a solar panel at the house would cost you with the help of solar calculators available on the MNRE website. Make sure to consider maintenance costs, warranty, and the lifetime of the system. 

5) Choose your solar developer 

Once you have your budget fixed, it is time to identify a trustworthy solar company. We would advise you to do your research for the solar company you want to get a solar plant from because it is a product for a lifetime, and you would not want to run everywhere in case of a breakdown. Do check product warranties. HomeScape by Amplus is a trusted brand from the house of the PETRONAS group brought to you by a creative group of solar designers and experts. HomeScape provides you 25 years performance warranty* along with the product insurance to protect you from any anomaly in the plant in the future.

6) Site Survey 

The site survey is required for a solar developer to evaluate: 

  • Best photovoltaic location 
  • Obstacles (if any shading)  
  • Size of the central electrical panel inside the household 
  • Places suitable for installation of the electrical elements 
  • State of the Rooftop (structurally sound or not) 
  • Square footage suitable for positioning module

To assess your home, the executives from a solar company will take a note of the following points: 

  • Overall roof size 
  • Slope angle  
  • Chimney and vents 
  • Compass orientation of the rooftop slope 
  • Roof thickness 
  • Strong trees or other blockages in or around the residential property

7) Receive your proposal  

After finishing your site survey and measuring the average kilowatt-hour consumption of the building, you will receive a proposal from your solar company. Evaluate and pick a solar plant that suits your requirements, both technically and economically.

8) Documentation and permits 

Like every significant financial move, there is a lot of documentation involved with rooftop solar panels for the house. For on-grid networks, permits are needed, when you would like to opt for net metering or gross metering. Typically, permits differ from state to state and depend on the form and scale of construction of solar panels. HomeScape takes care of all the documentation processes making it hassle-free for customers. Regardless, it is still a smart thing to know and understand what is happening with your solar power plant.

9) Installation 

Solar Panels: The solar developer will begin by preparing the rooftop. It would make sure that the panels are fixed correctly. Electrical Wiring: The solar company then installs electrical wiring, which would connect to your electrical panel and main power system.

1 kW solar system

10) Warranty and maintenance 

Generally, solar plant for houses come with a twenty-five years warranty. The company would offer ten years for 90 percent and the following fifteen years for 80 percent performance. The inverters usually come with a five-year warranty which can be extended by AMC, if required.

our solar plant does not require that much upkeep but taking care of a few aspects is necessary. Cleaning the photovoltaic panels is crucial for an efficient generation. Periodic cleaning of the modules (once in fifteen days) with wet cloth or wiper stick is sufficient for the best performance of the system. In conclusion, when you are familiar with the steps of installing a solar photovoltaic system, the whole process becomes much easier. The installation of the solar panels for houses is not very difficult, nor is it incredibly costly.

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Revamping your Roofs and Open Spaces

September 5, 2020 One Comment
revamp your roofs and open spaces with HomeScape solar

COVID – 19 has made our lives change in numerous ways. We are slowly getting acquainted with the ‘New Normal’. Amidst the lockdown, to stay on the safer side, the preference to stay indoors has increased. We are becoming homebound, now more than ever.  This has made it essential to revamp your roofs & open spaces of your homes. The ‘Work from home’ culture has initiated the need to have homes that breathe positivity. With families staying indoor, there’s a need to revamp our thoughts on how we look at our interactive spaces. The residential sector has entered a dual role in catering to both housing, as well as workplace needs. The pandemic has been an eye-opener about how we cherish being outside. Balconies, backyards, and green spaces have become the new highlights of our homes.

Roofs = Open space

Roofs are an important construction element. For many decades they were being used as a sheltering element. But in the current times, they too can be optimally utilised for something more appealing and aesthetic.  Our open spaces can be optimized by making them active spaces. Before the pandemic, the usage of roofs was for catering to domestic purposes. Now is the time, we can make these spaces actively open for interactions and family times.  

So, here are a few ideas through which you can revamp your roofs and open spaces 

Garden on roofs & open spaces

What benefits do rooftop gardening give a resident?  According to researchers, rooftop garden benefits your psychological growth. With a variety of plants and shrubs available in the market, one can choose a wide range of species for your green roof. Even the planters and pots are now available in different materials and variety. They also add up to the aesthetics of a space and make your green roof more pronounced.  Depending on the size of the balcony or open space you can mark your green areas. Plants can be a good option to recreate your roof space. They can even act as informal spaces for working while at home. A coffee table or a basic dining table to accommodate the members can make these spaces more optimized for use. For having an informal vibe, you can add bean bags or high raised cushions.

Indoor – Outdoor 

Outdoors within a household can be great spaces to unwind during the rainy and winter season. But during the summers, it can be discomforting. A balance of indoors and outdoors can be maintained by adding partitions for air buffers. A glass partition which allows a semi-closure between the indoors and outdoors can be a good idea.

Add Accessories 

It could be artworks, sculptures, hanging pieces, stone pieces, or paintings. They add a dynamic feature to the outdoors and give an inviting vibe to the entire space. Sculptures with flowing water can be a meditative experience for the residents as they tend to have a positive impact on our psych.

Be space smart! 

We are heading towards the microgeneration; our house has now started getting more and more compact. The key here is to use our open spaces smartly. Many innovative furniture with inbuilt storage is available in the markets. These furniture elements can save space and even make the existing space dynamic.   Instead of having planters and greens placed horizontally, you can go vertical by adding steps to your roofs. It allows a varied experience for your balcony or open spaces. Vertical gardening and farming are the new trends in rooftop gardening that many households are adapting. It allows your open space to have a soothing effect by using the verticality of a zone making the horizontal space available more for spatial use.

Soft Lighting 

Lighting plays a vital role in defining the mood of a space. In open spaces or roofs, bright light can create a sense of uneasiness. The key is to have soft lighting that allows the space to be lit adequately without being too harsh. As open spaces need to be centric more towards having an informal vibe, having the right lights is always important.   The lights needn’t just be about their illuminance but also their shape and design. Hanging lights are good for dining or seating areas for amplifying the rooftop gardens. The area for the planters can have spotlights or mild downlights to have a calm tone to the greens in the evenings. The lighting above the seating space can be slightly brighter and more pronounced as compared to the other spaces to define the centric activity. The light should be just adequate for you to read and look at the stars.

Colour Palette 

The Colour palette plays a vital role in interior decoration and gives many rooftop garden benefits by adding dynamicity to space. The consistency to stick to the colour palette is where the balance of the entire blend takes place. While designing your roof spaces, make sure that you stay put on the colour palette that was beforehand. While getting every element, check if they belong to the same thread.    The palette of your rooftop garden needs to be consistent with your home. As in the end, they both are the same part of a whole. 

Get yourself a Metaphorical Money Plant 

It is the most crucial part of making a house. We spend a massive amount of finances on our homes to make our vision into reality. It is important to have a pre-determined idea of the budget and the costing. Sometimes we even tend to go overboard while planning our budget. In such situations having a pre-planned system can be a good solution.   Also, while making the house, we need to think about its running cost. In such scenarios, opting for sustainable ideas is always a great solution.   Our roofs are left dormant to do their basic function of sheltering us.   But what if they could do more?  What if we could have roofs that become our asset and give us our assured returns?  What if our roofs could save our electricity bills and at the same time beautify our homes?  For this, having an Atrium, HomeScape’s flagship Solar Pergola is the ideal option. An Atrium is a wooden solar pergola that acts as a shade to your open gardens or balconies. While doing this, it also produces solar energy that can be effectively used in our households. So the roof now is no more a stagnant system but an active energy-producing powerhouse. This can act as a unique rooftop garden idea.  So, these are the ideas through which you can revamp your roof and open space to form an actively used set-up. These ideas are easily adaptable and have an impactful effect on your open spaces. These areas not only help in getting beautiful open spaces but they also reduce our mental strains. They also tend to increase your productivity. Your open spaces are the best way to have a happier and healthier lifestyle.

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10 Smart Energy Saving Tips For Your Home

August 6, 2020 No Comments
home solar system

It’s no wonder that we would have heard of so many ways to reduce household energy usage by some simple steps like switching off the fan and lights whenever not in use or looking for the energy saver logo whenever purchasing new electronic appliances. There are many ways, ranging from small habitual changes in your routine to extensive home improvements that can considerably reduce the overall energy consumption of your home.

Top 10 Smart Energy Conserving Tips to Reduce Energy Consumption at Home

Listed below are 10 smart energy saving tips that range from the simplest to the most intensive ways:

  1. Everyday behavioral changes:

A simple step of switching off the tube lights and fans when not in use will help in energy consumption. Another important step is by trying to perform simple household tasks like washing the dishes manually instead of using the dishwasher, hanging the wet clothes to dry in the sun instead of the dryer, etc. which will limit the usage of energy-intensive appliances.  

  1. Replace your existing light bulbs with energy-efficient lights:

The recently developed compact fluorescent lights (CFL), halogen incandescent bulbs, and light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs) use less electricity as compared to the traditional incandescent light bulbs. The average energy consumption by the CFL and LEDs is 25 – 80% less as compared to the traditional lights which makes it a much wiser choice.  

  1. Purchase a solar power system for your home:

Before implementing solar energy for a home, it is recommended to assess the potential solar energy that can be generated at your place. The amount of solar energy generated depends upon how much sunlight is received and the size of the unit. While calculating the solar panel for a home price, you can check with the local and state authorities for any incentives or solar subsidy which can be applicable for home consumption. Many companies also offer free solar panels for home use which causes zero up-front cost and only pay for the electricity generated and used by you. In case, your home can generate excess energy than required then the installer will recommend that you go for a grid-tied system, for it allows you to sell excess electricity and get credit for the same.  

  1. Go for installation of energy-efficient windows:

Energy-efficient windows are getting extremely popular these days. If you are located in colder regions then gas-filled windows with ‘Low-E’ coatings will help reduce your heating expenses considerably. Additionally, installing interior or exterior storm windows will reduce heat loss by 10 to 20%. Storm windows are highly recommended in case your region experiences harsh weather conditions.  

  1. Go for home insulation:

Home insulation plays a vital role in reducing the home utility bills by lowering the heat from your house during summers and retaining heat during the winters. The level of heat resistance also known as R-value for the insulation will solely depend upon the place where you live. The R-value for buildings located in warmer regions is much lower as compared to the R-value of the building located in colder regions.

  1. Home weatherization:

Home weatherization or sealing of the air leaks of your home can reduce the heating and cooling expenses of your home considerably. Caulk can be used to seal the air leaks between non-moving objects like windows, and door frames. For major cracks between operational windows and moving objects like doors, weather stripping can be applied.  

  1. Upgradation of an HVAC system:

The HVAX system comprises of air conditioning, heating, and ventilation of your home. Upgrading to an energy star certified appliance will reduce the overall heating bill considerably. Similarly, switching to the energy star rating central air conditioning system will be approximately 8 – 10% energy efficient as compared to the conventional modes. Upgrading the ventilation system of the HVAC system will also improve energy efficiency. This can be done by properly sealing and insulating the ducts that distribute hot and cold air throughout the home.

  1. Smart power strips:

Smart power strips or advanced power strips eliminate the issue of phantom loads which is a major source of energy wastage. They are useful by automatically shutting off the supply of power to the electronics when they are not in use.  

  1. Installation of a programmable or smart thermostat:

You can choose to install a programmable or smart thermostat to eliminate energy wastage at home without actually upgrading your HVAC system. A programmable or smart thermostat automatically turns off or reduces the heating and cooling during the time when you are away or not using it. It also indicates when to change the air filters which also improves the efficiency of heating and cooling of the system.  

  1. Reduction in the overall water heating expenses:

Water heating is the major contributor to total energy consumption at home. To reduce water heating expenses, you can simply reduce the usage of hot water or insulate the water heater and also the first six feet of hot and cold-water pipes. Alternatively, you may also turn down the thermostat on your water heater. If considering the replacement of your water heater, then you can purchase an energy-efficient water heater to reduce the overall expenses.   Energy conservation is not only necessary but also beneficial for many other reasons. It helps you save money, enhance the property value, and also protect the environment! 

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How Bundling Scheme is Going to Impact Solar Companies in India

February 28, 2020 No Comments
grid connected

The Bundling Scheme is a plan to sell renewable energy (RE) and thermal power in a bundle so that end users can get uninterrupted supply of power. Bundling solar power was first introduced by the government in the first phase of Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM), in the year 2010.

What is bundled solar energy?

Bundled solar energy means combining solar power with the power from the government’s unallocated quota, generated at National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) coal-based stations, which was comparatively cheaper. Solar power would be purchased by NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Limited from developers, which would then be combined with cheaper coal-based power. The price of this was set by the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) and then sold at the reduced price to distribution companies. Reduction in the price of solar directly results in cheaper power, reducing the impact on them. At the same time this will also benefit the developers, since they would receive higher tariffs.

How does it work?

In the first phase, the cost of bundled solar power was successfully lessened to INR 5/kWh. The ratio of coal to solar power was kept at 4:1. A total capacity of 718 MW was commissioned under Phase 1. However, bundling faced a hurdle due to India’s coal production being extremely slow and unallocated coal not being available in abundance. Selecting solar power projects under various central schemes was proposed in the second phase. This is where the Viability Gap Funding Scheme was introduced, which is being implemented through the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI). This scheme specifically aimed to solve interruption in power supply and low capacity utilisation of solar power plants and make them appealing for state-owned power DISCOMS.

In this scheme, at least 51% of the annual energy supplied has to be Renewable Energy. The balance would then be drawn from thermal power sources.The generator, which will have the option of selecting the type of RE and mix and decide upon the usage of Energy Storage System (ESS). The tariffs for RE will be quoted by bidders as a composite single tariff for bundled energy. The scheme is the need of the hour for state-owned DISCOMS because they are drowning in debt. They are delaying payments to renewable energy companies. MNRE has said that the scheme will enable them to purchase power at competitive rates to meet their deficits. 

What is the grid-tied solar system?

The impact of the bundling scheme cannot be viewed alone but in conjunction with other schemes. The bundling scheme was introduced to facilitate grid-connected solar power generation. A grid-tied solar electrical system is a network of power lines connecting users of electrical energy and producers of electrical energy. The home solar panel system is linked to the local power utility company’s electrical grid. Grid-connected projects could be ground-mounted PV or rooftop PV.

India aims to increase solar usage up to 100 GW by 2022. It is essential to take important steps to achieve this. There is a huge need to convert solar and bundle into usable electricity through panels. The infrastructure requirements for solar parks and the transmission of this power into the national grid must be met.

Manufacturing of solar panel systems is also extremely poor in India. In 2018, the government made a significant policy to impose the Safeguard Duty of 25% on Solar Imports for two years, after which it would be phased down. This was meant to encourage Indian companies of solar energy involved in manufacturing. But it was not as effective as hoped. Imports did drop due to slower capacity building in India, but not because of a rise in domestic sales. Indigenously made solar panels and cells constitute just 15% of Indian solar projects. A manufacturing solar company in Delhi, or elsewhere faces stiff competition from Chinese and Malaysian manufacturers despite the safeguard duty. Therefore, even though bundling has attempted to push the usage of solar while diminishing the need for expensive thermal, the Indian solar companies still have to bear the brunt of expensive machinery. 

Solar partnering by DISCOMS is a part of solar push by the government. Rooftop owners are licensed, and developers are chosen through a competitive bidding process that is done by DISCOMS. For usage of their rooftop, solar panel system owners are given a monthly rent or credit on their electricity bill. A three-way agreement between DISCOMS, rooftop owners and solar developers are made for a period of 20-25 years. The developers would own and operate the solar panel system while roof owners will to host the solar panels. The DISCOM agrees to buy the power at a fixed rate. All owners have to do is to calculate the estimate of the power generated using a solar rooftop calculator.

The solar partnering model is good for consumers who want roofless solar or have to subscribe for a monthly fee. They get part of their electricity at the predetermined solar tariff. The government has also announced a capital subsidy on rooftop solar installations. This means that the solar system for home price would be considerably reduced. This is already applicable for many solar home systems in Haryana. 

Conclusion

A policy where users can feed the electricity back into the grid will make solar penetrate at the grassroots levels. It would also be a positive move for the solar companies listed in India. Greater accessibility of solar would mean an increase in demand. Bundling would solve the issues of irregularity, since solar is not always reliable, and yet solar companies will be making a profit from this hybrid scheme since the push for solar has only just begun and will continue to grow. 

Rooftop Solar Solar Energy

Why would you want to make your home a Solar Home

December 23, 2019 No Comments
Pergola

Our decisions and actions as humans have completely changed the demography of the environment today. Most activities have brought about direct implications at an unprecedented rate in the depletion of natural resources. The earth has become 1.62 degrees hotter since the 19th century, all as a direct result of greenhouse gases leading to global warming.

With hotter temperatures, melting glaciers and rising sea levels concerning us all, more and more people are finally switching to an eco-friendlier way of living by choosing effective and sustainable options for themselves and the environment.

Combating climate change has made its way through to our consciousness. Awareness is spreading at a more grassroots level, and what better way than to start with our own homes. While saving water, reducing waste or managing it effectively is important, it is highly essential to switch to a lifestyle that consumes lesser energy and is more friendly to the environment.

Solar-powered homes bring about a good change when it comes to fighting the climate crisis. To begin with, installing solar panels in home is not only affordable as an alternate source of energy but are also powerful tools while looking for sustainable options.

How does solar energy for homes work?

As sunlight falls onto a solar panel, it is absorbed by the photovoltaic cells on the panel. The cells comprise of silicon semiconductors that convert solar energy into electric energy. The generated electric energy is in the form of DC, which charges the solar power battery, which also acts as a storage box to store electricity when there’s no sunlight. The generated DC is then converted into AC using an inverter, which is then directly supplied into the mains of a house.

Benefits of solar energy

Environmentally viable

A solar-powered device uses a natural and renewable energy resource, that is the sun, unlike other regular electricity-powered devices running on fossil fuels. Burning of fossil fuels depletes non-renewable energy sources, adds to air pollution and can also turn out to be quite expensive.

Even if you’re using hydroelectricity to generate power, water is present in the ecosystem in a scalable amount; exploiting or overuse of water can lead to scarcity of water overall. Solar homes fit the bill perfectly in this context by not being harmful to the environment and also not exploiting the earth’s already diminishing resources.

Reduces expenses and convenient

Solar power plants works best during the summer months when the sun is at its peak. Also, summer months indefinitely use more electricity to power air coolers or air conditioners. Think solar-powered air conditioners- an option that not only lets you save on the massive figured electricity bill but also does not get affected by power cuts that are so frequent in India during the summer months.

Though currently, solar powered energy accounts for only 1 per cent of electricity generation. However, according to NASA, almost 27 per cent energy will be generated using Solar power by 2030.

Has a positive social impact

Switching to solar power in your house can be quite innovative in a society where people are not fully aware of the adverse effects of climate change or the rapid depletion of natural resources. Not only can you create awareness but also “be the next big thing” among your family and peers by setting an example for others to follow.

Importance of solar homes in India

A staggering 240 million population of the country still lives without 24/7 supply of electricity; power consumption, however, is only on the rise regardless. Choosing green energy and alternate options to power villages, towns or cities is now the way to go for millions of people in India.

The climate of this country makes solar energy a very viable option; India has almost 300 days of sunlight which makes it appropriate for direct sunlight to be converted into consumable forms of energy. Solar energy seems to be the ideal way forward to bring in growth and sustainability at the same forefront, thus, making India one of the trendsetters in this innovative field.

Solar power system is ideally suited for private homes. While converting houses into solar-powered homes, various factors that must be kept in mind, which includes the geographical terrain of the area, the region of your house, the location and direction where solar panels can be fit, the panel efficiency, and so on.

Power generation from 1KW solar system

A 1KW solar panel can produce around 3-4.5 KWh of electricity in a day, which of course depends on the number of hours of sunlight, the season or other relevant weather conditions. This number varies depending on what time of the year it is, however on an average the number can go up to 1100-1600 KWh of electricity in an entire year.

Area required for 1KW solar system

A 1KW solar panel requires about 80 to 100 sq. ft of area for installation within a non-shadow area to receive maximum exposure to the available sunlight.

Conclusion

Solar power not only converts but also stores energy. In the upcoming years, this will play a significant role in making renewable energy a substantial source of power while also reducing the costs. The future holds not only solar-powered homes but also vehicles that depend on renewable forms of energy. The changing infrastructure of how we use energy and what defines as a smart, environmentally friendly choice will lead to a growth in the same. As the world hopes to become more sustainable to save this planet, support of the governments is the boost needed. Letting developers and innovators in this section find visibility to share their ideas is essential. At the same time, government-led projects must have a transparent process in place with a definite pipeline which encourages people to adopt solar energy even further.

Rooftop Solar Solar Energy

How to Improve Unsteady Target Growth of the Rooftop Solar System in India?

December 11, 2019 No Comments
solar pergola

India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. The country has a huge potential and the opportunities are ever-expanding. Being a populous country, the electricity consumption is ever increasing, but electricity has been one of the major hurdles for the country’s progress. The government and some private companies of solar energy are taking the initiative to produce electricity within the Indian territory. Being India the world’s third-largest electrical producer, the country is still struggling to provide electricity to every part of the country.

If we talk about the production of electricity in term of percentage, 65% of the electricity consumed in India is generated by thermal power plants, 22% hydroelectric power plants, 3% by nuclear power plants and remaining 10% from other alternative sources like solar, wind, biomass, etc.

The production of electricity with solar is less than 10%. Solar has a huge potential and can be used to produce energy equivalent to thermal and hydro. The world is changing and maybe it’s time to look at things from a different perspective. The country has huge potential but only if they make use of all the resources.

Rooftop Solar Trend in India

The solar trend of the west is slowly entering the Indian market. The government and the people of the country have finally started realizing the potential of solar power. The government of India has set a target of 175 GW of installed renewable energy by 2022 of which solar alone is expected to be the single largest component at 100 GW.

There are multiple things to improve and a lot of work to be done in different areas of energy production and energy consumption. To improve the unsteady target growth of the rooftop solar power system in India, people should be educated about solar.

Educate people about Solar Power

Educating people about solar is highly essential. They must be aware about the industry and the government support to the industry. A number of myths that have settled in the minds of the consumers have to be removed, the importance of a greener future to be explained and the number and amount of subsidies available to them to be told, only then will they be willing to go for solar.

Benefits

It is important to inform people about the following benefits of solar.

  1. A cost-saving secure investment with low maintenance cost.
  2. You get government support for the installation of solar power systems.
  3. It increases access to energy.
  4. You are making the world a better place by using renewable energy and reducing carbon footprints.
  5. Solar is suitable for the Indian climate.

Educating people will allow them to know more about the benefits, as well as the various procedures, enabling them in the process of mounting a solar panel.

Government Support

With India signing the Paris Agreement and pledging to reduce global climate change, the need for Solar has increased. The Solar industry has now started receiving ample of support from the government, in the form of subsidies and policies. Self-sufficiency in energy is the need of the hour and steps to achieve the same are being taken.

A higher push gradually, will further help the industry to flourish.

Conclusion

A renewable source of power supply, Solar, has great potential in a country like India. If used and implemented properly solar can the best power generating medium. With the correct government support and awareness, solar has a long way to go.

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