Brand new. Is there any benefit to letting it sit in the sun if I am not using it? Do the solar panels store energy?

Solar energy is becoming very quickly recognized as one of the best alternatives to fossil fuels It is an abundant and renewable natural resource. It can be used to save energy in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Solar technologies will use the sun's energy to provide heat, hot water, light, electricity, and cooling, for homes, businesses, and industry.

Many major advancements have been made in the solar technology fields over the recent years. Solar air heating is becoming more attractive than ever before now that it is becoming lower in cost and more efficient. Solar energy is easily the cleanest and most inexhaustible of any of the known energy sources. The many variations in energy prices have fueled interest in alternative fuels such as solar energy. Demand for solar energy has been increasing exponentially as heating, cooling and many other energy costs continue to skyrocket.

Solar air heating and solar water heating are two examples of solar thermal technologies which produce heat, but not electricity. Solar air heat is best suited for installation in new construction and existing houses. Solar panels for any type of heating should be placed on a south-facing pitched roof, free of shade. The angle should be between 20 and 50 degrees. They may also be mounted on an angled frame on the ground or on a flat roof. Solar air collectors (the devices that heat up the air using solar energy) can directly heat individual rooms. They also can potentially pre-heat the air passing into a heat recovery ventilator or the air of an air-source heat pump. Solar heating panels can be one of the most cost effective ways to reduce your utility bills. This will make a positive contribution towards a better environment. Solar air heating systems often use large bins filled with rocks that store heat (although this method is becoming rare due to problems associated with controlling moisture and mold growth in the rock).

Energy Policy Act has implemented a 30% tax credit for consumers who chose to install solar water heating systems. State and local government programs are now being put in place to encourage the use of solar energy. Cash incentives are available for those that integrate solar energy technology as an alternative energy source. The Department of Energy (DOE) is working to design even more cost-effective solar heating systems and to improve the longevity of the materials used in those systems. Other incentive programs now include offering homeowners tax credits for solar panel installations and for solar heating systems. With solar power you will save money, increase your property value, help protect the environment and help to create a more secure America by reducing our dependence on foreign energy fuel sources.

A great solar heating system will save energy, reduce utility costs, and produce clean energy.