The world needs energy badly. With the rising demand of a growing population, there is a need to look for potential energy sources. However, most people are aware that generating clean and sustainable power isn’t easy. One of the best solutions to this dilemma is solar energy.
Most countries are turning to solar energy in the past years. In 2016, ten nations topped the charts in using clean, solar energy. Germany took the top spot with 38, 250 watts, and China coming in second at 28, 330 watts.
Australia comes 8th in the list with 4, 130 watts, and being a part of it shows that Australian citizens are turning to solar energy. The majority of Melbourne kitchens and bathrooms, Sydney, and other major cities are also adopting the same practice. In 2017, 3.5 million panels were installed, showing a 41% increase in installed renewable energy capacity from the recorded number in 2016. There is growing confidence that more Australians will switch to solar in the coming years.
What does dependence in solar energy mean for you? It means that you can use clean energy for your home. If you’re renovating your house, consider adding appliances which utilize solar power. If you’re not familiar with these devices, read on to get ideas for the machines that you can get for your home.
Kitchen Appliances
If you’re committed to saving energy, replace your usual appliances with power efficient or solar-powered ones. There are some models of these on the market, and you won’t have any trouble finding some to fit in your home.
● Refrigerator
A refrigerator is an essential appliance in your kitchen, and buying an energy-efficient one will help you save money spent on electric bills. The daily energy use ranges from 13 amp-hrs .17 kWh to 23 amp-hrs .28 kWh. You can buy a direct current (DC) fridge for $2860, and alternating current (AC) fridge for $2751.
● Oven
Are you fond of baking, cooking, boiling, and steaming? Don’t worry; there’s a new thing that you can use – a sun oven solar cooker. It uses solar energy in its raw form, meaning you can cook food using the sun’s heat. It weighs twenty-one pounds, and it comes with reflectors and a leveling tray to prevent your food from spilling over.
You can adjust the oven in nine different positions so you can catch the best angle where you can capture the most heat. It can reach a temperature of 300-400 degrees Fahrenheit. The best part is that your food won’t burn or dry out due to some of the oven’s features.
● Lights
Solar-powered lights aren’t solely for outdoor use, but it can also function inside other rooms like the kitchen. You can install under your hanging cabinets to illuminate your countertops, or along the walls to brighten your kitchen. There are also lights with motion sensors which you can mount near the sink or the door.
Bathroom
The bathroom can also benefit from solar energy. Check out these appliances which you can install during a renovation to upgrade your bathroom and add it during the renovation
● Water heater
Who doesn’t like taking a bath with hot water on a cold day? However, on some days you might choose not to because heating water takes up too much energy. Installing a solar hot water system can give a solution to your dilemma. Purchase a solar water heater with a ground tank for $2,500.
● Lights
Solar-powered lights are useful for your bathroom. Larger solar panels mean that your device stores more energy for later use. Some of these lights even come with a motion-sensor, turning on whenever you need to take a bath. Add some of these lights to your bathroom during the renovation.
● Shower
Some people love taking their time when taking a shower. However, it’s more comfortable if you’re showering with hot water, right? If you do this while using a regular shower, it’ll cost you around $70 a month, for ten minutes worth of shower time. Longer showers also increase your carbon footprint.
You can achieve your regular, hot showers without hurting the environment by getting a solar-heated shower. A cistern stores the water, and it’s painted black to absorb the maximum heat. In the summer, the temperature inside the reservoir can reach up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
You can also save money by going solar. You don’t need electricity or gas, just the natural heat of the sun is enough. If you’re willing to invest in an excellent solar shower, get one during the renovation that you can use in summer and winter.
Takeaway
Solar energy is the answer to the world’s growing demand for clean and renewable energy. Help reduce your carbon footprint by installing solar panels and adding solar-powered appliances during the renovation. Collective efforts by individuals will have a significant impact on the environment.
Author Bio
Phoebe Jones is a writer by passion. She writes for a variety of topics but mostly focuses on home improvement. She also advises on energy-efficient tips for her readers. On her free time, Phoebe takes her golden retriever for a walk along the beach.
