The author's second book is a hands-on book on how to install a solar electrical system. It covers, every aspect of a solar installation in great detail, including: electrical theory with emphasis on DC wiring, system design, electrical code, as well as components of a solar system down to quirks, nuts, and bolts. In its humorous language the book also looks at alternative energy politics, policies, and the industry through a critical eye.

"For home power systems"--Cover./Includes index

This easy-to-follow text is designed to take an extremely "non-technical" student with zero background in solar PV, and literally teach them how to design and install a variety of residential PV systems.

The Solar Electricity Handbook is a practical and straightforward guide to using electric solar panels. Assuming no previous knowledge of solar panels, the book explains how solar panels work, how they can be used and explains the steps you need to take to successfully design and install a solar electric system from scratch using photovoltaic solar panels. Accompanying this book is a solar resource website containing lots of useful information, lists of suppliers and on-line solar energy calculators that will simplify the cost analysis and design processes. Readers can also get in touch with the author directly to ask questions and get further support with their solar projects.

Want to take advantage of solar power in your home? Whether you’re looking to save on your energy costs by adding a few solar components or you want to build a solar-powered house from the ground up, Solar Power For Dummies takes the mystery out of this energy source and shows you how to put it to work for you! This friendly, hands-on guide is packed with tips for making your home more energy-efficient though solar power—and helping the planet at the same time. You’ll see how to survey your home to determine your current household energy efficiency and use, and evaluate where solar power would best benefit you. You’ll also calculate what the return on your investment will be before you make any decisions. Once you’ve decided on a project, you’ll see whether it’s best to hire a contractor or do it yourself. We leave no stone unturned—you’ll also discover how to: Choose and install your best solar system Handle small to large solar projects Heat and cool your house with solar energy Install exterior solar lighting Handle swimming pool, water heater, or ventilation solar projects Create greenhouses or solar rooms Build, buy, or sell a solar home Finance your solar investments Take advantage of tax rebates and incentives associated with solar power Avoid the worst solar mistakes Featuring ten of the easiest and cheapest do-it-yourself solar projects, Solar Power For Dummies is the fun and easy way to meet your energy needs with this clean power source!

The indispensable guide to solar electricity systems for homeowners, business owners, builders, and students Climate change and limits to fossil fuels compel us to find safer, more economical, and more sustainable ways to meet our needs for electricity. And, as more and more electric cars hit the road, we'll need to find a way to provide fuel that is clean, environmentally sustainable, and affordable. With Solar Electricity Basics, author Dan Chiras offers a concise and up-to-date guide covering all the essentials. It explores: How to size, cost, and choose the right system, including off-grid vs. grid-tied vs grid-tied with battery backup Where to mount a system for maximum performance What type of modules and inverters to buy How to install and maintain batteries Cost vs benefit for solar electric systems How to connect to the grid, and what type of net metering your area offers. Solar Electricity Basics is an indispensable guide for homeowners, business owners, builders, and students for figuring out solar electricity quickly and easily.