Solar Panels

[DrGonzo]

Has anyone ever experimented with using solar panels as supplemental power. Aquarium lighting puts out energy can be recycled. I would think that solar panels could reduce energy costs and well as reduce one's carbon footprint. Any thoughts?

 

[ming]

I thought about this and although it'll be a huge investment, there are tax incentives and rebates for getting it. It'll also increase the value of your home. Also, do not confuse this with a power generator. Your power will be out when there is a blackout because it hooks up to the electrical grid. You'll be using your solar panels when its sunny, and using the electrical grid when its not. If you don't use up your electric, your meter will slowly turn backwards and you'll actually get paid because you're feeding ConEd. Also, even though we don't get as much sun as down south, our electric is more expensive then down south so it still makes solar panels a good investment.

Check out this site for more information about rebates and good incentives
http://www.dsireusa.org/library/includes/map2.cfm?CurrentPageID=1&State=NY&RE=1&EE=1

 

[DrGonzo]

Solar

I was referring to smaller panel that can perhaps be place like a tank background and use the energy from the aquarium lights. I understand that it can not provide all of the power needed to run the system. I just figure it can supplement it.

 

[ming]

That would be inefficient because the sun light is many times stronger, might as well put a black piece of plastic on the back of the tank and put the panel outside like a regular solar panel. Or better yet, if you can use geothermal cooling to cool the tank in the summer, use the sun light as your lighting, and you're using minimal energy! And must house in a green-house type of environment to keep warm in the winter.