Present scientific technology allows us to harness the power of the sun in basically four ways.

Solar Photovoltaic Power - Solar Photovoltaic power is from a process termed Photovoltaic. This process is used to convert the sun's rays into electricity through the use of solar panels. Specially treated silicon will generate a current when hit by light particles called photons. Solar cells which are comprised of these special silicon wafers are tightly arranged together into a solar panel. The energy generated is based on the amount of Sun an area receives. This is the most common of all the solar energy used.

Concentrated or Concentrating Solar Power: CSP is a type of solar power where parabolic mirrors are used to focus sunlight on a central point or plane. In parabolic through systems, the heat is captured and later converted to current through a steam generator. In a parabolic dish system, the sunlight is focused on a special solar cell, which converts the concentrated sunlight into power.

Solar Thermal Power - Solar Thermal energy uses the Sun ray's to heat our homes and water. Instead of using oil, gas and electricity, the system uses solar thermal collectors which collect the heat energy and disperse it through the water in our heating and plumbing systems. Solar thermal power is frequently used to heat pool water whereby the sun heats special chemicals which intern heat water which is piped through it.

Passive Solar Energy - Passive solar energy is where direct sunlight heats ambient air and fixtures. This is created and enhanced by architecturally designed homes, offices or building. Window placement and sunroom design type features are specifically located so that the sun does the heating without the need for collectors as in the other solar energy processes.

History and Progress of Solar Energy

Solar energy has been used by human since the beginning of time and all of our other natural energy resources are certainly a result of the sun energy as well. The photovoltaic process, the most common solar energy systems today, wasn't discovered until 1839 by the French physicist Edmond Becquerel. He found that an electrical current in certain materials could be increased when exposed to light. In 1905 Albert Einstein furthered our understanding when he described the photoelectric effect. In 1921 Albert Einstein received a Noble Prize for his theories describing that effect.

AT&T labs during the 1950's developed a 6% efficient silicon solar cell but production was still expensive. Then in 1960 Hoffman Electronics increased the efficiency to 14%. Scientists began using solar panels on satellites and in the space program but the technology was still too costly to be of practical use. Major gains were seen in research carried out in the 1970's due to the increased interest in alternative energy during the energy crisis and oil embargos at that time.

Today the prices have become very reasonable and federal, state and local incentives, rebate and tax credit programs now place solar power well within the reach of most home and business owners.

Interesting solar facts and goods reason to convert to solar

-The sun provides us with 174 petawatts (174,000 terawatts) of energy, of which half (89 petawatts) reaches the Earth surface. Since humanity consumes ‘only’ an estimated 15 Terawatts (2005 figure) of power, we only need to convert a tiny fraction of this free solar energy (~0.00016%) in order to fulfill the energy needs of the global population.

-Solar power is completely emision free. A 1-kilowat peak solar pv system can save up to 992lbs of emitted co2 each year.

-According to a 2009 US census - % of electricity use by source

1. Hydroelectric Conventional 6.9%
2. Other Renewable 3.6%
3. Petroleum 1.0%
4. Nuclear 20.3%
5. Natural Gas 23.4%
6. Coal 44.9%

Is Solar power right, now?

Today, having solar power installed in your home is the best investment for your money and it help to preserve our environment. In time you will not only receive your investment back but a solar system increases your homes value and sale price. California in making it easier to install solar power on your home now with "The California Energy Commission's New Solar Homes Partnership (NSHP )." This partnership is a comprehensive statewide solar energy program, known as the California Solar Initiative. The NSHP provides financial incentives and other support to home builders, encouraging the construction of new, energy efficient solar powered homes that save homeowners money on their electric bills and protect the environment. There are many incentives and even tax credits that can reduce the cost of your solar system by up to 50%. To read more about California New Solar Home Partnership Click here...

Our Promise to You

Solar by Milholland Electric Promise:

No High Pressure Sales No Part of Our Work is Sub-Contracted 10 Year Full Warranty, 25 Year Limited Warranty Custom Design and Installation