Solar thermal power plants

Solar thermal power plants also use various methods to concentrate the sun’s energy as a heat source. The heat is then used to boil water to drive a steam turbine that generates electricity. It works in much the same fashion as coal and nuclear power plants, supplying electricity for thousands of people across the power grid.

Passive solar technology

Other solar technologies are passive, but can also lower electrical energy costs significantly. For example, big windows placed on the sunny side of a building will allow sunlight to shine on heat-absorbent materials installed on the floor and walls. These surfaces then release the heat at night to keep the building warm. Similarly, absorbent plates installed on a roof can heat liquid in tubes that supply a house or commercial structure with hot water.

Solar energy surge

Solar energy use in homes and businesses has surged at about 20 percent a year in the past 15 years, thanks to rapidly falling prices and improvements in solar technology. Solar is now the heart of the thriving “green” industry, and Japan, Germany and the United States are the major producers and markets for the latest, most efficient solar panels, cells and energy conversion systems.

Solar in Santa Clarita and the Santa Clarita Valley

When it comes to solar in Santa Clarita, in Southern California’s Santa Clarita Valley, state and federal tax incentives and rebates have brought the out-of-pocket cost down. A new solar energy system from Eclipse Solar Services, voted the best solar installer in Santa Clarita for a home or commercial building, available for $0 down, can often pay for itself in five to 10 years. With a properly installed solar system, providing renewable energy, you save money, add value to your home and help the environment all at the same time.