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Why is solar power not more prevalent?

The sun is the natural source of the most abundant, reliable and pollution-free power in the world. However, problems with solar power, namely the expensive cost and inconsistent availability, have prevented it from becoming a more utilized energy source.

It is five to eleven times more costly to produce electricity from the sun than it is from coal, hydro or nuclear sources. The first problem with solar power is with the cost of the technology:

Solar panels use expensive semiconductor materials to generate electricity directly from sunlight. Semiconductor factories need 'clean' manufacturing environments and are expensive to build & maintain.

The efficiency of solar cells is only about 22%. The rest of the sunlight that reaches the panel is wasted as heat. More efficient photovoltaic cells have been discovered (up to 43% efficient) but these are still in their experimental phase and are expensive to manufacture.

The main problem with solar power that has stifled its use is the fact that energy production only takes place when the sun is shining. Large storage systems need to be developed to provide a constant and reliable source of electricity when the sun isn't shining at night or when there are clouds overhead.

The upside is that the harvesting of the sun’s rays is clean and safe. It produces no emissions, it’s practical, and may in the years ahead prove very economical. Residential solar energy systems can virtually turn your electric meter backwards. Because you are connected on a power-grid, the excess energy that your solar energy system produces will go to the electric lines to be used by other homes. As a result, any excess energy you give will be reflected on your bill. Your electric supplier will even pay for the electricity you supplied to others.

While the initial cash out for installing solar energy system at home is big, the device will pay for itself in the long run. Not only will you save money on solar energy systems, you also help the environment by not contributing to carbon emissions. In addition, solar energy systems are reliable and can last for a very long time.

PV cells last from 25 to 40 years. Many manufacturers of solar panels offer 25 years' product warranty. This is the assurance that solar panels are very dependable. In addition, solar panels require little or no maintenance and the can be installed on most places where there is sunlight throughout the year.

The good part of the solar energy quest is that technology is advancing very rapidly. Nano technology for solar power is being developed and may be available in the next couple of years.

Other breakthroughs in cell designs are also being developed that could, in the next few years, be a cost-effective way of generating energy without having to rely anymore on fossil and nuclear power.

If you are considering the option of solar powering your home or commercial property, your first step should be contacting a professional to answer all of your questions. At John's Electric, we are here for your peace of mind. Give us a call today.

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Welcome to the Neighborhood!

Tuesday, December 21, 2021

John's Electric Service strives to give the best possible service through:

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New homeowners should never ignore these electrical responsibilities.

Monday, August 9, 2021

Whether the issue is large or small, problems with electricity are often ignored until they become apparent.  It's easy to avoid thinking about problems that can occur in our appliances, circuit breakers, wall outlets, and even light bulbs. But often, ignoring issues while they are small leads to more significant problems and the necessity for the help of an electrician.

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About John's Electric

Linn Park Fountain, Birmingham, AL

John's Electric Inc. is a family owned and operated electrical contractor business that proudly provides electrician services in Birmingham, AL and the surrounding areas such as Hoover, Homewood, Chelsea, Vestavia Hills, Pelham, Alabaster, Trussville, and Mountain Brook. John's Electric provides residential and commercial electrical solutions at competitive rates. We have been in this line of work for 30 years, giving us not only experience but expertise as well. You can depend on us. We are a state licensed electrician (#03875) for your protection.

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What others say about John's Electric Service

What a pleasure it was dealing with Aubrey of John's electric! We had a breaker that would not reset. Aubrey arrived at our house at exactly the time he said he would. He had the problem diagnosed in under a minute and had us back to normal with all of our garage outlets in under 5 minutes. I know that all service calls can't go that quickly, but he sure found the problem right away and got it fixed immediately. I would strongly recommend this company.

Drew Simpson

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Aubrey and Jeremy were awesome! I have an old house with old wiring and needed to install a new Range and above Range Microwave. They worked very hard to run new wiring to the breaker box in the basement, installed new plugs, and installed the appliances with great care.

Steven T.

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Aubrey was here less than half an hour after I called, had the problem identified within 5 minutes and had the problem solved within 15 minutes. He was friendly and professional.

Richard Walston

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They were prompt, professional and honest in their work.

wreck61

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