Solar power isn't just for going off the grid anymore. More and more homeowners are finding solar panels are a great option to supplement their existing power source and lower utility costs.

If you have the cash to make the up-front payment, installing solar panels can be a smart long-term investment. They last for up to 30 years with minimal maintenance. By generating your own electricity, you can reduce or even eliminate your power bill to the electric company. Furthermore, there are federal and state tax credits that can reduce your initial installation costs, making it an even better deal. At the same time, you will be reducing your carbon footprint and reliance on fossil fuels, making your own contribution to the health of the planet.

How It Works

Your solar system will hook right into the power grid. On sunny days, when you generate more electricity than your house needs, you will actually send the excess out along the power lines. Then at night or on overcast days, you will draw conventional energy from the grid. If your conditions are favorable enough, you can make a profit by creating more electricity than you use overall.

The panels can pay for themselves in saved electricity costs in anywhere from two to 15 years, depending on how much energy you create and your state's incentive programs. Many companies also offer financing options so you don't have to come up with all the cash up-front.

Solar isn't a good solution for every homeowner, however, so consider the following factors when making your decision:

The Next Steps

If you think your house is a good prospect, the next step is to contact reputable solar installation companies and get some estimates. Their experts can help you go over the costs and savings and make the decision that is right for you.

Commercial enterprises tend to have a number of heavy-duty appliances and equipment including data processing installations and communications equipment. Hotels and restaurants have various appliances that rely very heavily on electricity too.

When you start looking for a commercial electrician for any scheduled maintenance, a major installation or even any replacement or repair work, you know that you will need a professional that would provide reliable and high-quality electrical services. Here are some tips to hire a commercial electrician in Sydney:

When it comes to electrical work, a poor job can be extremely dangerous to people and property. The commercial electrician you hire should be able to provide services that are in-line with Australian Standards; they should also provide guarantees for their work and this is an indication that they are confident about their own workmanship. Apart from this, you can be assured they will tackle the job in a competent and professional manner.

When any electrical emergency arises, you need to be sure that the company will be able to quickly send out a licensed and insured electrician to your location within the shortest possible time. You also need someone who would be able to meet project deadlines. Any downtime on electricity can have a major impact on the working at a commercial establishment and it impacts their revenue as well. This is why you need to hire professionals that will use the latest technology and complete the job quickly and efficiently.

Only a company that is professional and careful about maintaining its reputation in the field will ensure that every single aspect of their business is in place. They should have well-trained, qualified, licensed and insured commercial electricians on their team. Apart from this, the company should also have the necessary worker’s compensation as well as professional indemnity. They should also ensure that all their personnel undergo regular training; this helps them keep their skills sharp and knowledge current.

Before you decide which commercial electrician you are finally going to hire, it’s a good idea to get quotes from multiple electrical companies. Look for one that will be able to provide you long-term value. It’s not always about hiring one that provides the lowest quote, but they should be able to provide solutions such as energy-efficient installations etc. It’s important that you ask the companies to provide detailed quotes based on your specific requirement; check what’s included or excluded in the quote.

It’s best not to be hasty with making your final decision about a commercial electrician in Sydney. However it’s something you shouldn’t be putting-off to later date either, as you never know when you would urgently need the services of an electrician on your premises. Look for a company that’s local to your area, as that will ensure you get quick and efficient services exactly when you need them.

It’s best to call in an electrician, discuss your electrical requirements and get them to assess what the cost of the various services will be and what kind of preventive electrical maintenance plans they provide. For more information, simply speak with the experts at Allround Electrical and take their advice on various aspects of commercial electrical solutions.

We are extremely professional in our approach to our work and provide customized solutions that are right in line with your needs. The number to call is 1300 169 263. You can also write to us at this email address and we will respond within the shortest possible time.

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A 9-year, $3.8 billion study conducted at The Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee in collaboration with the Institute for Natural Medicine and Prevention at Maharishi University found “a 47 percent reduction in the combination of death, heart attacks, and strokes” in those who practiced transcendental meditation daily. Does pretending to breath in light still sound weird?

I also encountered a study found that “Meditation provides a good starting point for learning and creativity.” The researchers assert that “There are strong pedagogical reasons for including meditation as part of the daily experience of pupils of all ages and abilities.” The study concludes that “Meditation is a proven means for stilling the mind, encouraging mindfulness, and providing optimum conditions for generative thinking and reflection.”

I’m sold. But, you know what? I’m also “sold” that drinking kale juice every morning would be great for me. That doesn’t mean I do it. Meditation, I’m convinced, is GREAT for you and for everyone. I really believe that. But how does one meditate? And when? And what will people think of me if I stare into the dark center of a candle’s flame daily?

For me, the benefits of meditation outweigh any concerns, and using the candle light solved the problem of how to meditate. I think it would be cool to stare at the dark center of a flame for a few minutes per day. Better mood? Increased focus? Better thinking and reflection? Less risk of heart disease? Yes, I think I’ll sign up.

You know, it goes without saying, but light is truly amazing.

Choosing the right size depends on the level of energy independence that a renewable energy owner wants. It may simply boil down to what you can afford. These levels range from 100 percent or completely off the grid (the most costly), to a simple energy backup for emergencies.

100% energy independence or completely off the grid: this requires a huge investment in terms of generation and storage. In addition, it may require other power sources such as fossil fuels or wind generators.

High energy independence: This requires a solar system with enough batteries to last a few days or even through the winter. PV systems are sized to enable the owner to have surplus energy to store during summer and be self-sufficient through winter without relying too much on the grid. The customer will still rely on the grid for backup just in case there are prolonged days of bad weather.

Summertime independence: Customer installs just enough panels and storage capacity to get through a normal summer day but will have to draw power from the grid during the winter.

Peak time independence: Battery size should be large enough to supply power during peak times when electricity rates are highest.

Reduced reliance on the grid during peak times: Some customers cannot afford to install enough storage to cover their entire peak time usage. In such a case, some will install a system that will enable them to at least reduce part of their grid usage during these times.

Emergency power backup: This requires smaller energy storage, enough to cover a short power outage. Some customers use this together with fuel generators. Battery storage is only required for the short duration from the time grid power goes out, to when the alternative power becomes available.

Even though a solar energy system is a great investment that reduces your electricity bills, it is not possible to completely get off the grid without investing in large storage systems. However, adding modest battery storage to a grid connected to solar systems is a better way of increasing your independence from the grid without spending too much.

Most marketers have online tools that can help you get the right size battery based on various factors. However, it is advisable to consult professionals for the best advice.

Customers with solar systems are increasingly adding battery storage to reduce their electricity costs or become independent from the grid. With better technology and prices getting lower every day, battery storage is becoming an appealing component to many solar power system owners.

This type of storage allows the customer to charge their batteries during the day and then discharge them when there is no generation. This permits homeowners and businesses to have a backup power source and save on electricity bills. In addition, you can sail through cloudy periods or other times when power generation is low.