Works Cited
Betts, Alan K. "Understanding Climate Change." Alan Betts: Atmospheric Researcher. N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Oct. 2014.
Alan Betts is serving as my research mentor in this capstone project. He is providing us with data from Green Mountain Power that we can analyze and determine various graphical relationships. Alan specializes in atmospheric research, but also has a passion for solar energy. His website discusses many of the issues behind climate change and also gives us a realistic picture of the future if nothing is done to preserve our planet. Alan's research with climate change ties directly to solar energy because solar energy is one of the ways that we can reduce our carbon footprint and therefore extend the life of Earth's well-being.
Alan keeps an accurate, up-to-date website explaining his past and current research projects. His intended audience is anyone interested in the realities that the world is facing with climate change. Alan has a BA and an MA in Natural Sciences from Cambridge University in England. He also has a PhD in Meteorology from Imperial College, University of London. There is contact information for Alan, and we have been keeping in contact via e-mail as I continue my research analysis. There are no biases on Alan's website, but it is full of important, realistic facts that portray the real picture of what is currently happening to the Earth. The purpose of Alan's website is to inform and educate people about climate change. It also serves as a place for him to document his research and share it with the rest of the world.
Bullard, Gina. "Are Vermont Utilities Limiting Customers' Solar Power?" WCAX. N.p., 18 Aug. 2013. Web. 24 Oct. 2014. <http://www.wcax.com/story/23140589/vt-utility-wants-to-limit-customers-solar-power>.
This article by the local news station, WCAX, explains the struggles that smaller utilities are having with the recent explosion of solar installations. Companies are worried that they will eventually be paying out too much money to people using net-metering, causing a loss of profit for the electrical companies. Some people are generating enough profit from their solar arrays to pay for customer service and efficiency costs as well as their actual electric bill. This means that electrical companies are not making any money from these pervious customers. Furthermore, companies are worrying that they may have to shift heavier costs over to non-solar users in an attempt to maintain their same profit margin.
This material was published about a year ago, so it is relatively up to date. The intended audience is anyone in Vermont who is concerned about their future electricity needs and costs. This is a news article, so the author can be contacted via WCAX. The article is reliable because it quotes one of the head members of Washington Electric Co-op who is discussing the issues behind net-metering. However, it is also a biased article because this person, Patty Richards, is speaking in favor of her company. The purpose of this writing is to inform the general public about some of the underlying issues with net-metering. It is most valuable because it discusses potential issues for electric companies in the future.
Edgerly, Jessica. "Building a House with Solar." Sun Common. N.p., 26 July 2012. Web. 21 Oct. 2014. <http://suncommon.com/building-a-house-with-solar/>.
This site serves as a basic guide for people interested in designing a home that is specifically oriented to be solar friendly. It provides a list of important considerations that must be taken into account when designing a solar home in Vermont. These include making sure that the roof of the house is as close to 35 degrees as possible. The roof should also be made out of either metal or asphalt shingles. Wiring should be pre run in the home to avoid having to take off siding and other materials when the panels are constructed. Landscapers should also not plant trees on the southern side of their house because it will decrease the sin exposure. Southern exposed roofs are best for solar. This website also provides contact information for people looking for guidance in the solar design and installation process.
This material was published in 2012, so it is current. The intended audience is anyone who is interested in designing their dream solar home in Vermont. There is limited background information available about the author of the article, but the company does provide contact information, so any questions about the information or solar in general can be directed at the entire company via the "contact us" link. There is no bias in this article. It is slightly basic, so many people will want more detailed information before they begin building their solar homes. However, it is clearly organized and readable. The purpose if this writing is to inform potential home builders and designers about the easiest ways to make homes solar friendly. It is most valuable because it is easy to read and it provides general knowledge that anyone can interpret and utilize.
"Environmental Impacts of Solar Power." Union of Concerned Scientists. N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Oct. 2014. <http://www.ucsusa.org/clean_energy/our-energy-choices/renewable-energy/environmental-impacts-solar-power.html#.VD6IyEu4lSU>.
This source discusses some of the key drawbacks to solar energy. It specifically discusses the environmental impacts of solar power, despite the movement of solar energy being classified as "green energy". Solar power has its drawbacks like any other form of electricity. Some issues with solar panels include taking up farmland to construct solar arrays, using water to construct the panels, and accounting for the hazardous materials found in solar panels. There is a price to pay in the production of all of these solar arrays. While my project focuses mainly on the analysis and benefits of solar power, it is important to realize that there are also drawbacks that come with this alternative form of electricity production.
This article has no published date, but the sources provided with the article indicate that it was created in the past couple of years. The intended audience is the general public that needs to know about the disadvantages of solar energy despite all of the publicity about their benefits. This website is a union of scientists, so some may be well-educated, but others may just be advocates against solar energy. There is no contact information for any authors on this site. This article does have bias because it is against solar power. However, the facts are backed up with reliable sources including laboratories and the Environmental Protection Agency. The purpose of this article is to address the other, less positive side of solar power in an attempt to make people think twice before they go and construct a solar array. This article is most valuable because it provides an alternative view on solar power.
"Grid-Tie Solar Electric Systems." Independent Power. N.p., n.d. Web. 23 Oct. 2014. <http://www.independentpowerllc.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3>.
This page about grid-tie solar electric systems discusses the benefits of installing a solar array. It explains that solar arrays can generate anywhere from 25% to 100+% of household energy requirements. This means that there is potential for the excess energy to be sold back to the grid for a profit. Solar energy is a long term investment, with most systems warranted for at least 25 years. Most experts state that solar panels can be productive for at least 40 years. The site then illustrates a diagram about how grid-tie solar works. Finally, it advertises that by going solar, you are also helping your neighbor be greener because any excess electricity that is created flows directly to their home.
This material is recent and the company keeps its website up to date. The intended audience is prospective grid-tie solar users who need basic knowledge about the benefits that await them after installing a solar array. There is no background information listed about the authors, but there is contact information for the company. This page predominantly included advantages to using grid-tie solar. It is trying to sell a product, so there is bias in favor of grid-tie solar. However, the information provided is useful information. The purpose of this page is to inform people about the opportunities with grid-tie solar, as well as to educate them about how it works. This page is most valuable because it gives a basic image of grid-tie solar energy.
Herrick, John. "Old Rutland Landfill Site of New Solar Microgrid." Vermont Digger. N.p., 13 Aug. 2014. Web. 30 Oct. 2014. <http://vtdigger.org/2014/08/13/old-rutland-landfill-site-new-solar-microgrid/>.
This article tells us about Rutland's newest major solar project. This project is underway at the old Rutland Landfill Site behind the Rutland High School. 7700 solar panels will make up this 2 megawatt solar facility. When complete, the site will provide backup power to Rutland High School because the school serves as a community emergency shelter. The site will have back up batteries totaling 4 megawatts, but the batteries will have to be replaced every 12 years. The Rutland Landfill site no longer emits biomethane, a common source for energy generation from landfills. Therefore, utilizing this empty space for solar is a great alternative option. This $10 million project is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and the State of Vermont Clean Energy Development Fund.
This article was published a couple of months ago, so it is up to date. The intended audience of this article is the people of Rutland County, specifically, the city, who will be benefiting from this solar array. People can also utilize this article to learn more about the potential energy opportunities that a landfill provides. The author of this article, John Herrick, is a University of Vermont Graduate who has a bachelor's degree in political science and a minor in Spanish. He does freelance writing for the Burlington Free Press. There is contact information for John Herrick. This information is clearly organized and readable. It has not been reviewed, however. It is free of bias. The purpose of this writing is to inform people about Rutland's major solar project.
"The History of Solar." U.S. Department of Energy. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Nov. 2014. <https://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/pdfs/solar_timeline.pdf>.
This timeline from energy.gov provides a useful resource to gain more detailed information on the history of photovoltaics. The site is set up as a timeline beginning in the 7th Century B.C.E. and continuing to modern times (2001). It discusses many of the different scientists behind photovoltaics, and it also explains many of the discoveries and achievements that were made to make solar panels what they are today.
This site is a reliable resource, but it is not completely up to date. The timeline needs to be extended 14 years to account for all of the modern advancements in solar technology. There is no background available on authors, but some dates are cited to other sources, so there is security knowing that the information can also be reached elsewhere. This site is ideal for anyone who wants to see the development of the solar industry and technology.
"How Do Solar Systems Produce Energy?" NW Wind and Solar. N.p., n.d. Web. 7 Oct. 2014. <http://www.nwwindandsolar.com/solar-power-in-seattle-and-the-northwest/how-do-solar-systems-produce-energy/>.
This website gives a good overview of the basic household solar setup. It starts by discussing the requirements for a successful solar setup. This includes where they are located, the ideal climactic conditions, and the necessary preparations needed to ready a site for a solar array. Then, it discusses the basic design of a solar panel. It also outlines the rest of a solar setup that is required in order to generate electricity for home use. This includes an inverter that converts DC electricity into 120-volt AC power that can be utilized in a household. Finally, it discusses how excess power can be returned to the grid to decrease the energy costs of the consumer.
This information is current because it is being provided on the website of a large solar company that is currently working to install solar arrays. The intended audience is anyone who is potentially interested in installing a solar array. It is also informative to any member of the general public who is interested in modern, alternative energy. There is contact information for the company, but there is no declared author of the article. The information is almost purely factual, but there is some bias in the last section where no disadvantages of solar are listed. The company is trying to sell solar arrays, so they are only describing the benefits of them. However, the company is knowledgable on the information directly relating to how solar panels work and how to install them. The purpose of writing this informative page is to educate potential buyers on how solar arrays work. It is most valuable because of its general overview on solar energy's big picture.
Knier, Gil. "How Do Photovoltaics Work?" National Aeronautics and Space Administration. N.p., 6 Aug. 2008. Web. 3 Nov. 2014. <http://science.nasa.gov/science-news/science-at-nasa/2002/solarcells/>.
This article from NASA discusses how solar cells work in great detail. The article begins by discussing the history of solar panels dating back to 1839 when French physicist Edmund Bequerel determined that certain materials had an electric current when they were exposed to light. Then, the article begins to discuss the panels in more detail. It explains that solar cells are made of silicon. It describes the cells as wafers with a positive and negatively charged side. When light hits the cell, the electrons are knocked loose from the semiconducting material. These electrons then move towards electrical conductors on both sides of the solar cell, creating an electrical current. This current is electricity.
The article was published in 2008, so it is relatively current. The basic design of solar panels has not changed since then. The intended audience of the article is anyone who does not understand how solar energy works. This article was published by NASA, so it is reliable. There is contact information for NASA, but there is not individual contact information for the author of the article. This article is free of bias. The information was reviewed by NASA before it was published. It is clearly organized. The purpose of this writing is to inform people about how solar cells work.
"Managing Energy Costs in Dairy Farm Facilities." Energy Right. N.p., n.d. Web. 4 Dec. 2014. <http://www.energyright.com/business/pdf/Dairies_ESCD.pdf>.
This paper published by Energy Right discusses many of the major energy costs that come with owning a dairy farm. It explains that milk cooling accounts for 25% of the electric bill on most dairy farms. Furthermore, this article outlines general maintenance procedures for keeping equipment clean so that it is more efficient. The article also explains ways to lower electricity costs of the farm by installing newer equipment and maintaining old equipment so that it remains in top notch condition. Ultimately, this article serves as a guide to provide basic data about energy consumption on farms while helping farmers by explaining ways to conserve more energy in their operations.
This material was published in 2010, so it is current. The intended audience is any dairy farmer who is looking to lower their energy costs by becoming more efficient. There is no information provided about the authors, but the information is sourced reliably. This article is free of bias. It is outlined nicely and it is clearly organized with easy-to-read subheadings. This information has not been reviewed. The purpose of this writing is to educate farmers about how to improve the efficiency of their dairy operations. It also serves as a guideline to the public to brief them about where their milk comes from and how much energy goes into making it. This source is most valuable because of the data that it provides about different areas of energy consumption on a dairy farm.
McFarlane, Sarah. "Solar Energy Could Dominate Electricity by 2050." Ed. David Holmes. Reuters. N.p., 29 Sept. 2014. Web. 3 Nov. 2014. <http://uk.reuters.com/article/2014/09/29/us-solar-iea-electricity-idUKKCN0HO11K20140929>.
This brief article explains the rapid growth that is occurring in the solar industry. Recent cost decreases in the expense of solar setups has led to an explosion of new solar facilities. By 2050, there is a prediction that solar energy could fuel up to 16% of the world's energy needs. Solar energy has been the most rapidly increasing form of alternative energy since 2000.
This article is current because it was published only a couple of months ago. This article is intended for a worldwide audience with the intention of informing them that solar is the future. There is no information available on the author other than the fact that she is a reporter. This article has been edited, but it has not been reviewed. There was evidence that the facts in the article were correct because the article quotes the International Energy Agency. The purpose of this article is to inform the world about how great the impact of solar can and will be on the generation of electricity for our daily needs.
"Off-Grid Solar Power." Independent Power. N.p., n.d. Web. 23 Oct. 2014. <http://www.independentpowerllc.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4>.
This webpage discusses the setup of off-grid solar arrays. It begins by explaining that off-grid solar homes have no connections to conventional utility power, making them independent from the electric grid. It then explains some of the benefits to going off-grid. The main benefit can be saving money in both the short term and the long term. In remote locations, it can cost up to $100,000 to extend an electrical line to a home. A solar array is cheaper, and as a result of the installation, the user is making their own electricity. Going off-grid is also a benefit to the environment because the user is getting away from nuclear energy and fossil fuel energy. Finally, the site explains the importance of efficiency in an off-grid setting because there is no grid energy to fall back on. It also explains some of the keys to a successful off-grid system.
This material is recent and the company keeps its website up to date. The intended audience is prospective off-grid solar users who need basic knowledge about where to begin their off-grid journey. There is no background information listed about the authors, but there is contact information for the company. This page included some advantages and disadvantages of going off-grid, so it lacks bias. The purpose of this page is to inform people about the opportunities with off-grid solar, as well as to educate them about how it works and what some of the difficulties might be when living off-grid. It is most valuable because it gives a basic image of off-grid solar energy.
"Potential Rutland Solar Development Sites." Green Mountain Power. N.p., n.d. Web. 7 Oct. 2014. <http://www.greenmountainpower.com/upload/photos/369Potential_Rutland_Solar_Development_Sites.pdf>.
This chart created by Green Mountain Power Company outlines the potential sites for solar farms/arrays in the city of Rutland, Vermont. It is purely an initial list of potential available sites. Therefore, not all of the sites will be used, but some of the sites are already being utilized as well. Sites include rooftop areas on large buildings in the Rutland area. These sites also include current recreational facilities and city properties. Private lands are also listed, but the chart states that not all owners of these properties have been contacted regarding the solar energy potential on their property. There is also a listing for the old Rutland Landfill Site which is currently under construction.
The material on this site is relatively current, but with the rapidly expanding set of solar projects in the area, some of the sites listed are already under construction. The intended audience is anyone concerned with the issue of renewable energy, especially in the Rutland area. This chart provides the people of Rutland with a brief look into Rutland's potential to be the Solar Capital of New England. The point of contact for this source is Green Mountain Power. The source lacks biases as it is purely a list of potential solar sites. It is organized well, and is readable. The purpose of this chart is to provide an overview of Rutland's solar potential by listing and briefly describing potential solar sites in the area.
"Solar." Renewable Energy Vermont. N.p., July 2014. Web. 14 Oct. 2014. <http://www.revermont.org/main/technology/solar/>.
This website discusses solar energy in more detail. It discusses a brief history of solar, followed by a discussion of solar energy in Vermont. It also provides a long list of FAQ's with detailed explanations for each answer. These include questions about solar heating, finding reliable installers, and net metering.
This material was last edited in July, 2014, so it is current. It is intended for anyone who is a potential buyer for a solar setup. There is contact information for the organization (Renewable Energy Vermont). The authors of the article represent Renewable Energy Vermont, so they have knowledge with solar applications. The detail of the website also exemplifies their knowledge. There is some bias in this website because the company is trying to get consumers to invest in solar energy. Therefore, there is no where on the website that states anything negative about solar power. The information is carefully organized, and the language is free of bias. There are just no facts about the negative side of solar energy. The purpose of this writing is to inform people about solar power and to ultimately sell more products as a result. This source is most valuable because of its detail and the FAQ section that provides answers to common misconceptions about solar energy.
"The Solar Capital of Vermont Project Plan." Green Mountain Power. N.p., 21 Aug. 2012. Web. 13 Oct. 2014. <http://www.greenmountainpower.com/upload/photos/369Rutland_Solar_City_Implementation_Plan.pdf>.
This document created by Green Mountain Power outlines the five year plan to make Rutland, Vermont the Solar Capital of Vermont. They include a timeline of their project goals, as well as detailed explanations of these goals and future plans for solar energy in the Rutland area. They also discuss potential solar sites and their "promise" for the plan that they are implementing.
This document was published in 2012 when the Solar Capital of Vermont Plan was created/implemented. It is intended for anyone in the Rutland area who are curious about the future plans with Green Mountain Power's Solar initiative. It is also available to anyone who is interested in seeing what Vermont is doing to become a more efficient, "green" state. The document was created by the Green Mountain Power Company, so it is accurate because it states their goals to improve peoples' energy options in Rutland County. It is clearly organized and free of bias. The purpose of this document is to outline and inform people about the solar setups being erected in Rutland County. It also serves as a guideline for people so that they know what to expect to see for solar advancements in the next five years.
"Solar Panel Temperature Measurement." Global Water. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Oct. 2014. <http://www.globalw.com/support/solartemp.html>.
This article on solar panel temperature monitoring discusses the purpose of measuring solar panel temperature. It explains that there is a direct relationship between solar panel temperature and energy output. Therefore, by monitoring the temperature of the panels, energy output can be predicted in advance. This company is advertising the WE710 temperature sensor, but it also provides information about how the sensors work and how they benefit a solar array.
This information was last copyrighted in 2011, so it most likely is slightly out of date. However, the information is still accurate. The intended audience is prospective solar buyers and companies who need to more carefully monitor energy output. There is contact information for the company. There is little bias in this article, as it purely states facts. The only bias occurs in the last paragraph where the article specifically states that the consumer should buy their temperature probe to monitor their panel temperature. The purpose of this article is to inform people of the importance of monitoring solar panel temperature. It also serves as a resource where potential buyers can learn more about the company's product. This source is most valuable because it explains the key idea of a direct relationship between panel temperature and energy output.
"Solar PV on a Dairy Farm." Vermont Food Atlas. N.p., n.d. Web. 9 Dec. 2014. <http://www.vtfoodatlas.com/assets/resources/files/Solar%20on%20a%20Dairy%20Farm_McKnight%20Farm_Final.pdf>.
This article discusses the experiences of an organic dairy farm in East Montpelier, Vermont who recently installed a solar array to support their entire energy consumption on the farm. It explains the ways that panels can be installed on a farm to accommodate lack of space, and to avoid eliminating valuable cropping land. It also explains modifications that can be made to solar arrays to make them livestock and equipment friendly. Finally, it explains that even though the cost of the project was large, there are ways to lower that cost through grants, and even with the high cost, the project can pay for itself within a short period of time.
This article is current because it was published after 2013 (it contains data from 2013). The intended audience is dairy farmers and anyone interested in making farming more sustainable and efficient. The paper was published by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Foods, and Markets, so it is reliable. It is free of bias, and it is also clearly organized. This information is supported by evidence that was directly obtained from the McKnight Farm. The information was reviewed by the state agricultural agency. The purpose of this writing is to inform people about the potential for solar power on dairy farms. This source is most valuable because it outlines the costs of a solar array on a medium sized dairy farm and it also explains ways to cater to solar without wasting cropping land.
"Vermont Solar." Solar Energy Industries Association. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Oct. 2014. <http://www.seia.org/state-solar-policy/vermont>.
This source provides facts and figures about solar energy in the state of Vermont. Vermont is currently ranked 24th nationally for installed solar capacity. The energy created from Vermont's current solar resources can power about 6,700 homes. This site also breaks down Vermont's 46 solar companies into categories including manufacturing, contractors/installers, distributors, and financing, engineering and legal support. Finally, the site lists some of the state's largest solar facilities, including the South Burlington Solar Farm that provides 2MW of electricity as well as SunGen1 in Sharon that powers over 500 homes with 3MW of electricity.
This site has data through 2013, so it is, for the most part, up to date. The intended audience is anyone who is interested in Vermont's solar figures. This may include the general public, solar companies, or even the government. There are no authors listed, but there is contact information available for the Solar Energy Industries Association, so any questions can be directed at the company. This web page is purely a fact sheet that provides up to date information about Vermont's solar progress. Therefore, there is no bias in the article. The information is clearly organized with subheadings, but it is not cited. There are links to various other Vermont resources that tie to solar energy, including the Vermont Public Service Board and the State Legislature. The purpose of this article is to provide basic facts about solar energy in Vermont.
Betts, Alan K. "Understanding Climate Change." Alan Betts: Atmospheric Researcher. N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Oct. 2014.
Alan Betts is serving as my research mentor in this capstone project. He is providing us with data from Green Mountain Power that we can analyze and determine various graphical relationships. Alan specializes in atmospheric research, but also has a passion for solar energy. His website discusses many of the issues behind climate change and also gives us a realistic picture of the future if nothing is done to preserve our planet. Alan's research with climate change ties directly to solar energy because solar energy is one of the ways that we can reduce our carbon footprint and therefore extend the life of Earth's well-being.
Alan keeps an accurate, up-to-date website explaining his past and current research projects. His intended audience is anyone interested in the realities that the world is facing with climate change. Alan has a BA and an MA in Natural Sciences from Cambridge University in England. He also has a PhD in Meteorology from Imperial College, University of London. There is contact information for Alan, and we have been keeping in contact via e-mail as I continue my research analysis. There are no biases on Alan's website, but it is full of important, realistic facts that portray the real picture of what is currently happening to the Earth. The purpose of Alan's website is to inform and educate people about climate change. It also serves as a place for him to document his research and share it with the rest of the world.
Bullard, Gina. "Are Vermont Utilities Limiting Customers' Solar Power?" WCAX. N.p., 18 Aug. 2013. Web. 24 Oct. 2014. <http://www.wcax.com/story/23140589/vt-utility-wants-to-limit-customers-solar-power>.
This article by the local news station, WCAX, explains the struggles that smaller utilities are having with the recent explosion of solar installations. Companies are worried that they will eventually be paying out too much money to people using net-metering, causing a loss of profit for the electrical companies. Some people are generating enough profit from their solar arrays to pay for customer service and efficiency costs as well as their actual electric bill. This means that electrical companies are not making any money from these pervious customers. Furthermore, companies are worrying that they may have to shift heavier costs over to non-solar users in an attempt to maintain their same profit margin.
This material was published about a year ago, so it is relatively up to date. The intended audience is anyone in Vermont who is concerned about their future electricity needs and costs. This is a news article, so the author can be contacted via WCAX. The article is reliable because it quotes one of the head members of Washington Electric Co-op who is discussing the issues behind net-metering. However, it is also a biased article because this person, Patty Richards, is speaking in favor of her company. The purpose of this writing is to inform the general public about some of the underlying issues with net-metering. It is most valuable because it discusses potential issues for electric companies in the future.
Edgerly, Jessica. "Building a House with Solar." Sun Common. N.p., 26 July 2012. Web. 21 Oct. 2014. <http://suncommon.com/building-a-house-with-solar/>.
This site serves as a basic guide for people interested in designing a home that is specifically oriented to be solar friendly. It provides a list of important considerations that must be taken into account when designing a solar home in Vermont. These include making sure that the roof of the house is as close to 35 degrees as possible. The roof should also be made out of either metal or asphalt shingles. Wiring should be pre run in the home to avoid having to take off siding and other materials when the panels are constructed. Landscapers should also not plant trees on the southern side of their house because it will decrease the sin exposure. Southern exposed roofs are best for solar. This website also provides contact information for people looking for guidance in the solar design and installation process.
This material was published in 2012, so it is current. The intended audience is anyone who is interested in designing their dream solar home in Vermont. There is limited background information available about the author of the article, but the company does provide contact information, so any questions about the information or solar in general can be directed at the entire company via the "contact us" link. There is no bias in this article. It is slightly basic, so many people will want more detailed information before they begin building their solar homes. However, it is clearly organized and readable. The purpose if this writing is to inform potential home builders and designers about the easiest ways to make homes solar friendly. It is most valuable because it is easy to read and it provides general knowledge that anyone can interpret and utilize.
"Environmental Impacts of Solar Power." Union of Concerned Scientists. N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Oct. 2014. <http://www.ucsusa.org/clean_energy/our-energy-choices/renewable-energy/environmental-impacts-solar-power.html#.VD6IyEu4lSU>.
This source discusses some of the key drawbacks to solar energy. It specifically discusses the environmental impacts of solar power, despite the movement of solar energy being classified as "green energy". Solar power has its drawbacks like any other form of electricity. Some issues with solar panels include taking up farmland to construct solar arrays, using water to construct the panels, and accounting for the hazardous materials found in solar panels. There is a price to pay in the production of all of these solar arrays. While my project focuses mainly on the analysis and benefits of solar power, it is important to realize that there are also drawbacks that come with this alternative form of electricity production.
This article has no published date, but the sources provided with the article indicate that it was created in the past couple of years. The intended audience is the general public that needs to know about the disadvantages of solar energy despite all of the publicity about their benefits. This website is a union of scientists, so some may be well-educated, but others may just be advocates against solar energy. There is no contact information for any authors on this site. This article does have bias because it is against solar power. However, the facts are backed up with reliable sources including laboratories and the Environmental Protection Agency. The purpose of this article is to address the other, less positive side of solar power in an attempt to make people think twice before they go and construct a solar array. This article is most valuable because it provides an alternative view on solar power.
"Grid-Tie Solar Electric Systems." Independent Power. N.p., n.d. Web. 23 Oct. 2014. <http://www.independentpowerllc.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3>.
This page about grid-tie solar electric systems discusses the benefits of installing a solar array. It explains that solar arrays can generate anywhere from 25% to 100+% of household energy requirements. This means that there is potential for the excess energy to be sold back to the grid for a profit. Solar energy is a long term investment, with most systems warranted for at least 25 years. Most experts state that solar panels can be productive for at least 40 years. The site then illustrates a diagram about how grid-tie solar works. Finally, it advertises that by going solar, you are also helping your neighbor be greener because any excess electricity that is created flows directly to their home.
This material is recent and the company keeps its website up to date. The intended audience is prospective grid-tie solar users who need basic knowledge about the benefits that await them after installing a solar array. There is no background information listed about the authors, but there is contact information for the company. This page predominantly included advantages to using grid-tie solar. It is trying to sell a product, so there is bias in favor of grid-tie solar. However, the information provided is useful information. The purpose of this page is to inform people about the opportunities with grid-tie solar, as well as to educate them about how it works. This page is most valuable because it gives a basic image of grid-tie solar energy.
Herrick, John. "Old Rutland Landfill Site of New Solar Microgrid." Vermont Digger. N.p., 13 Aug. 2014. Web. 30 Oct. 2014. <http://vtdigger.org/2014/08/13/old-rutland-landfill-site-new-solar-microgrid/>.
This article tells us about Rutland's newest major solar project. This project is underway at the old Rutland Landfill Site behind the Rutland High School. 7700 solar panels will make up this 2 megawatt solar facility. When complete, the site will provide backup power to Rutland High School because the school serves as a community emergency shelter. The site will have back up batteries totaling 4 megawatts, but the batteries will have to be replaced every 12 years. The Rutland Landfill site no longer emits biomethane, a common source for energy generation from landfills. Therefore, utilizing this empty space for solar is a great alternative option. This $10 million project is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and the State of Vermont Clean Energy Development Fund.
This article was published a couple of months ago, so it is up to date. The intended audience of this article is the people of Rutland County, specifically, the city, who will be benefiting from this solar array. People can also utilize this article to learn more about the potential energy opportunities that a landfill provides. The author of this article, John Herrick, is a University of Vermont Graduate who has a bachelor's degree in political science and a minor in Spanish. He does freelance writing for the Burlington Free Press. There is contact information for John Herrick. This information is clearly organized and readable. It has not been reviewed, however. It is free of bias. The purpose of this writing is to inform people about Rutland's major solar project.
"The History of Solar." U.S. Department of Energy. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Nov. 2014. <https://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/pdfs/solar_timeline.pdf>.
This timeline from energy.gov provides a useful resource to gain more detailed information on the history of photovoltaics. The site is set up as a timeline beginning in the 7th Century B.C.E. and continuing to modern times (2001). It discusses many of the different scientists behind photovoltaics, and it also explains many of the discoveries and achievements that were made to make solar panels what they are today.
This site is a reliable resource, but it is not completely up to date. The timeline needs to be extended 14 years to account for all of the modern advancements in solar technology. There is no background available on authors, but some dates are cited to other sources, so there is security knowing that the information can also be reached elsewhere. This site is ideal for anyone who wants to see the development of the solar industry and technology.
"How Do Solar Systems Produce Energy?" NW Wind and Solar. N.p., n.d. Web. 7 Oct. 2014. <http://www.nwwindandsolar.com/solar-power-in-seattle-and-the-northwest/how-do-solar-systems-produce-energy/>.
This website gives a good overview of the basic household solar setup. It starts by discussing the requirements for a successful solar setup. This includes where they are located, the ideal climactic conditions, and the necessary preparations needed to ready a site for a solar array. Then, it discusses the basic design of a solar panel. It also outlines the rest of a solar setup that is required in order to generate electricity for home use. This includes an inverter that converts DC electricity into 120-volt AC power that can be utilized in a household. Finally, it discusses how excess power can be returned to the grid to decrease the energy costs of the consumer.
This information is current because it is being provided on the website of a large solar company that is currently working to install solar arrays. The intended audience is anyone who is potentially interested in installing a solar array. It is also informative to any member of the general public who is interested in modern, alternative energy. There is contact information for the company, but there is no declared author of the article. The information is almost purely factual, but there is some bias in the last section where no disadvantages of solar are listed. The company is trying to sell solar arrays, so they are only describing the benefits of them. However, the company is knowledgable on the information directly relating to how solar panels work and how to install them. The purpose of writing this informative page is to educate potential buyers on how solar arrays work. It is most valuable because of its general overview on solar energy's big picture.
Knier, Gil. "How Do Photovoltaics Work?" National Aeronautics and Space Administration. N.p., 6 Aug. 2008. Web. 3 Nov. 2014. <http://science.nasa.gov/science-news/science-at-nasa/2002/solarcells/>.
This article from NASA discusses how solar cells work in great detail. The article begins by discussing the history of solar panels dating back to 1839 when French physicist Edmund Bequerel determined that certain materials had an electric current when they were exposed to light. Then, the article begins to discuss the panels in more detail. It explains that solar cells are made of silicon. It describes the cells as wafers with a positive and negatively charged side. When light hits the cell, the electrons are knocked loose from the semiconducting material. These electrons then move towards electrical conductors on both sides of the solar cell, creating an electrical current. This current is electricity.
The article was published in 2008, so it is relatively current. The basic design of solar panels has not changed since then. The intended audience of the article is anyone who does not understand how solar energy works. This article was published by NASA, so it is reliable. There is contact information for NASA, but there is not individual contact information for the author of the article. This article is free of bias. The information was reviewed by NASA before it was published. It is clearly organized. The purpose of this writing is to inform people about how solar cells work.
"Managing Energy Costs in Dairy Farm Facilities." Energy Right. N.p., n.d. Web. 4 Dec. 2014. <http://www.energyright.com/business/pdf/Dairies_ESCD.pdf>.
This paper published by Energy Right discusses many of the major energy costs that come with owning a dairy farm. It explains that milk cooling accounts for 25% of the electric bill on most dairy farms. Furthermore, this article outlines general maintenance procedures for keeping equipment clean so that it is more efficient. The article also explains ways to lower electricity costs of the farm by installing newer equipment and maintaining old equipment so that it remains in top notch condition. Ultimately, this article serves as a guide to provide basic data about energy consumption on farms while helping farmers by explaining ways to conserve more energy in their operations.
This material was published in 2010, so it is current. The intended audience is any dairy farmer who is looking to lower their energy costs by becoming more efficient. There is no information provided about the authors, but the information is sourced reliably. This article is free of bias. It is outlined nicely and it is clearly organized with easy-to-read subheadings. This information has not been reviewed. The purpose of this writing is to educate farmers about how to improve the efficiency of their dairy operations. It also serves as a guideline to the public to brief them about where their milk comes from and how much energy goes into making it. This source is most valuable because of the data that it provides about different areas of energy consumption on a dairy farm.
McFarlane, Sarah. "Solar Energy Could Dominate Electricity by 2050." Ed. David Holmes. Reuters. N.p., 29 Sept. 2014. Web. 3 Nov. 2014. <http://uk.reuters.com/article/2014/09/29/us-solar-iea-electricity-idUKKCN0HO11K20140929>.
This brief article explains the rapid growth that is occurring in the solar industry. Recent cost decreases in the expense of solar setups has led to an explosion of new solar facilities. By 2050, there is a prediction that solar energy could fuel up to 16% of the world's energy needs. Solar energy has been the most rapidly increasing form of alternative energy since 2000.
This article is current because it was published only a couple of months ago. This article is intended for a worldwide audience with the intention of informing them that solar is the future. There is no information available on the author other than the fact that she is a reporter. This article has been edited, but it has not been reviewed. There was evidence that the facts in the article were correct because the article quotes the International Energy Agency. The purpose of this article is to inform the world about how great the impact of solar can and will be on the generation of electricity for our daily needs.
"Off-Grid Solar Power." Independent Power. N.p., n.d. Web. 23 Oct. 2014. <http://www.independentpowerllc.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4>.
This webpage discusses the setup of off-grid solar arrays. It begins by explaining that off-grid solar homes have no connections to conventional utility power, making them independent from the electric grid. It then explains some of the benefits to going off-grid. The main benefit can be saving money in both the short term and the long term. In remote locations, it can cost up to $100,000 to extend an electrical line to a home. A solar array is cheaper, and as a result of the installation, the user is making their own electricity. Going off-grid is also a benefit to the environment because the user is getting away from nuclear energy and fossil fuel energy. Finally, the site explains the importance of efficiency in an off-grid setting because there is no grid energy to fall back on. It also explains some of the keys to a successful off-grid system.
This material is recent and the company keeps its website up to date. The intended audience is prospective off-grid solar users who need basic knowledge about where to begin their off-grid journey. There is no background information listed about the authors, but there is contact information for the company. This page included some advantages and disadvantages of going off-grid, so it lacks bias. The purpose of this page is to inform people about the opportunities with off-grid solar, as well as to educate them about how it works and what some of the difficulties might be when living off-grid. It is most valuable because it gives a basic image of off-grid solar energy.
"Potential Rutland Solar Development Sites." Green Mountain Power. N.p., n.d. Web. 7 Oct. 2014. <http://www.greenmountainpower.com/upload/photos/369Potential_Rutland_Solar_Development_Sites.pdf>.
This chart created by Green Mountain Power Company outlines the potential sites for solar farms/arrays in the city of Rutland, Vermont. It is purely an initial list of potential available sites. Therefore, not all of the sites will be used, but some of the sites are already being utilized as well. Sites include rooftop areas on large buildings in the Rutland area. These sites also include current recreational facilities and city properties. Private lands are also listed, but the chart states that not all owners of these properties have been contacted regarding the solar energy potential on their property. There is also a listing for the old Rutland Landfill Site which is currently under construction.
The material on this site is relatively current, but with the rapidly expanding set of solar projects in the area, some of the sites listed are already under construction. The intended audience is anyone concerned with the issue of renewable energy, especially in the Rutland area. This chart provides the people of Rutland with a brief look into Rutland's potential to be the Solar Capital of New England. The point of contact for this source is Green Mountain Power. The source lacks biases as it is purely a list of potential solar sites. It is organized well, and is readable. The purpose of this chart is to provide an overview of Rutland's solar potential by listing and briefly describing potential solar sites in the area.
"Solar." Renewable Energy Vermont. N.p., July 2014. Web. 14 Oct. 2014. <http://www.revermont.org/main/technology/solar/>.
This website discusses solar energy in more detail. It discusses a brief history of solar, followed by a discussion of solar energy in Vermont. It also provides a long list of FAQ's with detailed explanations for each answer. These include questions about solar heating, finding reliable installers, and net metering.
This material was last edited in July, 2014, so it is current. It is intended for anyone who is a potential buyer for a solar setup. There is contact information for the organization (Renewable Energy Vermont). The authors of the article represent Renewable Energy Vermont, so they have knowledge with solar applications. The detail of the website also exemplifies their knowledge. There is some bias in this website because the company is trying to get consumers to invest in solar energy. Therefore, there is no where on the website that states anything negative about solar power. The information is carefully organized, and the language is free of bias. There are just no facts about the negative side of solar energy. The purpose of this writing is to inform people about solar power and to ultimately sell more products as a result. This source is most valuable because of its detail and the FAQ section that provides answers to common misconceptions about solar energy.
"The Solar Capital of Vermont Project Plan." Green Mountain Power. N.p., 21 Aug. 2012. Web. 13 Oct. 2014. <http://www.greenmountainpower.com/upload/photos/369Rutland_Solar_City_Implementation_Plan.pdf>.
This document created by Green Mountain Power outlines the five year plan to make Rutland, Vermont the Solar Capital of Vermont. They include a timeline of their project goals, as well as detailed explanations of these goals and future plans for solar energy in the Rutland area. They also discuss potential solar sites and their "promise" for the plan that they are implementing.
This document was published in 2012 when the Solar Capital of Vermont Plan was created/implemented. It is intended for anyone in the Rutland area who are curious about the future plans with Green Mountain Power's Solar initiative. It is also available to anyone who is interested in seeing what Vermont is doing to become a more efficient, "green" state. The document was created by the Green Mountain Power Company, so it is accurate because it states their goals to improve peoples' energy options in Rutland County. It is clearly organized and free of bias. The purpose of this document is to outline and inform people about the solar setups being erected in Rutland County. It also serves as a guideline for people so that they know what to expect to see for solar advancements in the next five years.
"Solar Panel Temperature Measurement." Global Water. N.p., n.d. Web. 14 Oct. 2014. <http://www.globalw.com/support/solartemp.html>.
This article on solar panel temperature monitoring discusses the purpose of measuring solar panel temperature. It explains that there is a direct relationship between solar panel temperature and energy output. Therefore, by monitoring the temperature of the panels, energy output can be predicted in advance. This company is advertising the WE710 temperature sensor, but it also provides information about how the sensors work and how they benefit a solar array.
This information was last copyrighted in 2011, so it most likely is slightly out of date. However, the information is still accurate. The intended audience is prospective solar buyers and companies who need to more carefully monitor energy output. There is contact information for the company. There is little bias in this article, as it purely states facts. The only bias occurs in the last paragraph where the article specifically states that the consumer should buy their temperature probe to monitor their panel temperature. The purpose of this article is to inform people of the importance of monitoring solar panel temperature. It also serves as a resource where potential buyers can learn more about the company's product. This source is most valuable because it explains the key idea of a direct relationship between panel temperature and energy output.
"Solar PV on a Dairy Farm." Vermont Food Atlas. N.p., n.d. Web. 9 Dec. 2014. <http://www.vtfoodatlas.com/assets/resources/files/Solar%20on%20a%20Dairy%20Farm_McKnight%20Farm_Final.pdf>.
This article discusses the experiences of an organic dairy farm in East Montpelier, Vermont who recently installed a solar array to support their entire energy consumption on the farm. It explains the ways that panels can be installed on a farm to accommodate lack of space, and to avoid eliminating valuable cropping land. It also explains modifications that can be made to solar arrays to make them livestock and equipment friendly. Finally, it explains that even though the cost of the project was large, there are ways to lower that cost through grants, and even with the high cost, the project can pay for itself within a short period of time.
This article is current because it was published after 2013 (it contains data from 2013). The intended audience is dairy farmers and anyone interested in making farming more sustainable and efficient. The paper was published by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Foods, and Markets, so it is reliable. It is free of bias, and it is also clearly organized. This information is supported by evidence that was directly obtained from the McKnight Farm. The information was reviewed by the state agricultural agency. The purpose of this writing is to inform people about the potential for solar power on dairy farms. This source is most valuable because it outlines the costs of a solar array on a medium sized dairy farm and it also explains ways to cater to solar without wasting cropping land.
"Vermont Solar." Solar Energy Industries Association. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Oct. 2014. <http://www.seia.org/state-solar-policy/vermont>.
This source provides facts and figures about solar energy in the state of Vermont. Vermont is currently ranked 24th nationally for installed solar capacity. The energy created from Vermont's current solar resources can power about 6,700 homes. This site also breaks down Vermont's 46 solar companies into categories including manufacturing, contractors/installers, distributors, and financing, engineering and legal support. Finally, the site lists some of the state's largest solar facilities, including the South Burlington Solar Farm that provides 2MW of electricity as well as SunGen1 in Sharon that powers over 500 homes with 3MW of electricity.
This site has data through 2013, so it is, for the most part, up to date. The intended audience is anyone who is interested in Vermont's solar figures. This may include the general public, solar companies, or even the government. There are no authors listed, but there is contact information available for the Solar Energy Industries Association, so any questions can be directed at the company. This web page is purely a fact sheet that provides up to date information about Vermont's solar progress. Therefore, there is no bias in the article. The information is clearly organized with subheadings, but it is not cited. There are links to various other Vermont resources that tie to solar energy, including the Vermont Public Service Board and the State Legislature. The purpose of this article is to provide basic facts about solar energy in Vermont.