Environmental Benefits of Solar Energy Systems

Soteris A. Kalogirou. "Environmental Benefits of Domestic Solar Energy Systems." Energy Conversion and Management 45 (2004) 3075–3092, http://www.sciencedirect.com.ezproxy.mnsu.edu/science?_ob=MImg&_imagekey=B6V2P-4BT8D39-1-1G&_cdi=5708&_user=1822432&_pii=S0196890404000160&_origin=search&_zone=rslt_list_item&_coverDate=11%2F30%2F2004&_sk=999549981&wchp=dGLbVlz-zSkzS&md5=b630e8978a55074ec83125422d89970e&ie=/sdarticle.pdf.

This article discusses the need for sustainable resources for energy which means the resource "meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet


This article supports my research as a viable solution for renewable energy alternatives. This article discusses solar thermal energy and I would like to focus on PV for individual property owners. However, overall the effectiveness of solar and its ability to be an energy source with little harmful effect on the environment is effective for my needs.

Solar Absorption Cooling and Heating System in Different Building Types

Tiago Mateus and
949–957, http://www.sciencedirect.com.ezproxy.mnsu.edu/science?_ob=MImg&_imagekey=B6V1T-4TPF93J-2-K&_cdi=5683&_user=1822432&_pii=S0306261908002249&_origin=search&_zone=rslt_list_item&_coverDate=06%2F30%2F2009&_sk=999139993&wchp=dGLbVlz-zSkzS&md5=60359b9d3bed1041178cd574764a112d&ie=/sdarticle.pdf.

This article discusses integrated solar cooling and heating systems in various building types. Integrated solar systems use solar collectors and a hot water storage tank, with a gas boiler backup, to provide hot water; the hot water is either directly used for space heating or used to drive an absorption water chiller. The hot or cold water is circulated through fan-coils located in the conditioned space. The study compared feasibility testing for buildings in Lisbon, Rome, and Berlin. The study results showed that this system works best in single family homes and hotels but is not cost effective in anything larger.

This article did not support my research question very well. This was more in depth information than I really need for purposes of my research. It was difficult to understand how this system works which is most likely why the results did not support this system's use. Armando C. Oliveira. "Energy and Economic Analysis of an Integrated Solar Absorption Cooling and Heating System in Different Building Types and Climates." Applied Energy 86 (2009)

Solar Thermal Energy: The Forgotten Energy Source

Reuel Shinnar and Francesco Citro. "Solar Thermal Energy: The Forgotten Energy Source." Technology in Society 29 (2007) 261–270, http://www.sciencedirect.com.ezproxy.mnsu.edu/science?_ob=MImg&_imagekey=B6V80-4P00S49-1-9&_cdi=5856&_user=1822432&_pii=S0160791X07000255&_origin=search&_zone=rslt_list_item&_coverDate=08%2F31%2F2007&_sk=999709996&wchp=dGLbVlz-zSkzS&md5=8ed5efb2bdda790d58a081b3ec16b4a5&ie=/sdarticle.pdf.

This article discusses using solar power to heat water to really high temperatures allowing it to raise steam and drive turbines of electricity generating plants. This method can also be used to store the heated water in ponds and use as necessary for power source. The authors explain the effectiveness of this power source especially in terms of larger steam power plants. The authors concede this isn't the only solution but offer it as part of a larger solution involving more than one type of renewable energy. The cost is not high when compared to fossil fuels currently used. Furthermore, this technology can replace all but 16-20% usage of fossil fuels and other renewable energy sources can take care of that portion. The authors estimate using this technology would reduce use of fossil fuels by 55% by lowering usage of coal by 80%, oil by 50%, and natural gas by 50% reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 60%. And, oil imports would be eliminated completely.

This article provided good stats on the use of solar thermal power as part of an overall solution to conversion to renewable energy. It also showed that there is more use for solar than just solar panels making solar a cost effective choice.

Are People Aware of Health Benefits from Switching Homes to Solar Power?

Solar energy as an alternative power source interests me because of its availability to people. We hear people talk about the need for use of alternative power sources but most often they talk about government or corporations using it to cut back carbon dioxide emissions or our dependence on foreign countries for oil. However, people do not have to wait for government or corporations to make moves in this direction. Solar energy is a viable alternative energy source available to anyone. Many alternative energy sources such as wind turbines are not a realistic power source for the average person. Who is going to put a wind turbine in their front yard, especially if they live within city limits? Most likely no one. However, solar energy provides a solution for the average homeowner. Converting a 1500 square foot home to solar power is no more expensive than many home improvement projects, such as installing a new septic system. Converting a home to solar power reduces carbon dioxide emissions which have been linked to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. The United States is the second leading contributor to carbon dioxide emissions in the world. It is time individuals take action to reduce this ongoing health risk. Homeowners have significant power to change the amount of carbon dioxide being emitted in the United States but most are unaware of how easy it would be to convert, the savings they would receive in power costs, and the positive effect conversion would have on the health of Americans. The purpose of my research is to bring awareness about the health benefits from using solar power.