Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Jobs In Solar: Territory Sales Manager-AEE Solar (Dallas TX-Southern Region)

Date: 2011-11-29, 7:37PM CST
Reply to: see below

AEE provides everything needed to design, install, upgrade and maintain renewable energy power systems. We sell solar, wind and micro-hydroelectric systems and equipment, including hard-to-find parts nobody else carries. We continually search the world over to bring our customers items and prices that no other distributor can match.

This position can be located in a home office in Colorado, New Mexico, or Texas.

Territory Sales Manager (TSM) is responsible for the performance of their identified geographical sales territory, with a primary focus on developing new deal accounts and maintaining existing dealer accounts. TSM will be responsible for developing and executing a territory sales strategy, including customer acquisition strategy, sales goals, customer communication, reporting, etc. TSM's receive some leads from the company and are also responsible for generating their own leads and developing new dealers. The TSM should be able to combine knowledge of alternative energy technologies and installation with the entrepreneurial skills and people skills necessary in an outside sales environment. TSM's will also participation in Ad-Hoc work teams, process mapping, systems and skill training, personal development and master an understanding company strategy and goals. TSM's maintain a (remote) home office and travel to meet with existing and potential dealers.
Responsibilities include:

40% Develop new dealer accounts: Contact new dealers within the territory, assess their potential, and follows up appropriately according to the potential of the dealer.
30% Develop and Maintain Existing Dealers accounts: Monitor the performance of all dealers and respond to changes in dealer performance accordingly. Send end-user referrals to dealers, tracking the success of the referral. Respond to the needs of the dealers.

10% The TSM is responsible for the performance of the territory as projected in the sales portion of the annual budget. TSM to consistently monitor actual performance vs. budget and to respond appropriately to the results

15% Attend internal and external sales meetings and dealer conferences.
5% Participate in Ad-Hoc work teams, process mapping, systems and skill training, personal development and master an understanding company strategy and goals.

Requirements:

· Three to five years of previous solar sales experience and knowledge of solar industry. Computer experience required, experience
· Degree required, though one in a relevant field is not mandatory.
· Proficient with computer software programs such as the full Microsoft suite, ERP software (oracle a plus).
· Must be able to work in a fast paced environment, communicate to external and internal professional individuals and organizations, multi-task, self-starter, work with little supervision, and uphold a professional demeanor.
· Candidate must be a self-starter and work with little or no supervision, this position requires continual analytical research methods, precise calculations and the ability to "think outside of the box", as well being prepared for continual change. Should possess excellent organizational and self management skills.

Essential Physical Functions

Physical- typing on a keyboard, data entry, filing, may require lifting heavy boxes
Visual- reading and or research on a computer screen
Audio- inbound and outbound telephone calls
Travel

Additional Comments

Incumbent must be a self-starter and work with little or no supervision, this position requires continual analytical research methods, precise calculations and the ability to "think outside of the box", as well being prepared for continual changes

APPLY ONLINE HERE: http://tbe.taleo.net/NA5/ats/careers/requisition.jsp?org=RECSOLAR&cws=4&rid=1233

  • Location:  Dallas TX-Southern Region, home office
  • Compensation: Base+ Commission
  • Telecommuting is OK.

NHTSA Has Chevy Volt Under Microscope

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says they have been conducting fire safety tests on the Chevy Volt. They've been simulating crashes where the coolant line has been ruptured to see what would happen. They've conducted three tests during this past month aimed at studying the Volt after a crash.

Using three different Chevy Volts the results show that if a crash occurs and the coolant line ruptures the battery pack begins to spark and smoke almost immediately following the simulated crashes. The car showed signs that if left unattended they would catch on fire.

 The NHTSA says because of these test results there will be a formal investigation. Other electric cars use the battery packs and more than likely they'll all be scrutinized for defects after simulated crashes.

The NHTSA said there's no concern about the Volt catching on fire if it hasn't been involved in a serious crash. It's not suddenly going to go up in flames by itself, these tests are aimed at simulating very serious crashes.

GM is countering the negative news and publicity by offering current Volt owners a free "loaner" vehicle while it works with the NHTSA to fix the problem. GM has sold over 5,000 Chevy Volts this year through October at the $40K price point.

More details at Automotive Discovery.

Loaner Car details at Bloomberg.


Saturday, November 26, 2011

DIY: Build a Simple Solar Powered Toy Car

Here's a step by step tutorial on how to build a simple solar powered water bottle toy car. You might get some of the supporting parts from other model toy car kits.


Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Jobs In Solar: SOLAR SALES CONSULTANT (Antelope Valley, CA)

Date: 2011-11-23, 3:20PM PST
Reply to: see below

Header
Company Overview:

VERENGO leads the way in providing solar solutions to homeowners; we are currently ranked #1 in California, #4 nationally, and a member of the INC 500. We install only the most intelligent, energy-efficient and dependable products available while providing unsurpassed customer service and workmanship. PLUS, in addition to solar panel installation, Verengo offers a range of other energy-saving products--to help you conserve the energy that your solar system generates.

Due to growth, we are currently seeking Solar Sales Consultants to join our Sales team.
Compensation: Draw vs. Commission- At Quota: $150K+/Annual Earnings Target


We are looking for candidates who are committed to bringing our values to life:
  • Trust -- we build trust with every interaction.
  • Responsibility -- we do good and we do well.
  • Uncompromising -- we deliver what we promise.
  • Smart -- we learn from experience and find ways to improve.
  • Team -- we rely on each other to succeed.
  • Enthusiastic -- we love what we do and have fun doing it.
  • Dynamic -- we drive and embrace change.

    General Summary:

    Solar Sales Consultants are responsible for driving the growth and profitability of the company through customizing the design of each customer's solar system to meet that customer's unique needs.
    Essential Job Functions:
    • Conduct 1 -3 In-Home Solar Consultations per day.
    • Build trust and rapport with prospective customers.
    • Conduct accurate in-home needs assessments and corresponding analysis.
    • Engineer compelling energy solutions that Save Energy, Save the Environment and Save Money.
    • Deliver outstanding presentations that create a high sense of urgency to act now.
    • Resolve concerns and eliminate obstacles to going solar.
    • Follow-up on post-sale logistics.
    • Follow-up on sales pipeline.
    • Generate additional revenue through networking and referrals.
    • Attend company and departmental meetings as directed.
    • Participate in ongoing training, development and certifications.
    • Partner with cross-functional departments to accomplish mutual objectives.
    • Communicate and share best practices.
    • Other actions and assignments as appropriate.

    Requirements:
     

    Experience and Education
    • 5 years of achievement in a consultative sales environment.
    • Previous solar sales experience is NOT required; however, previous solar education is helpful.
    • Professional appearance and effective interpersonal skills.
    • Strong organizational skills and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
    • High urgency, high energy, positive, enthusiastic, self-driven.
    • Collaborative style with internal and external customers.
    • Ability to work a variety of hours, including nights and weekends.
    • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
    • Competency in Microsoft Office applications, especially Power Point and Excel.
    • Competency in Internet navigation, the use of Webmail and CRM (ACT!).
    • Reliable vehicle and insurance.
    • Clean DMV record.
    Preferred Experience:
    • 3-5 years of experience as a successful first-time closer.
    • 1-2 years of success with in-home sales.
    • Comfort and confidence in the sale of financial and/or professional services.

    Working Conditions:

    This is a 'road warrior' position -- which means that almost all of your time will be spent traveling to, from and at customer appointments and events.

    To Apply:

    Qualified candidates are encouraged to email their resume immediately. Please reference "Solar Sales Consultant -- Antelope Valley" in the subject line.
    For more information, please visit us at: www.VerengoSolar.com
    Watch video to learn more:
    MSNBC/CNN/NBC
    Verengo is an Equal Opportunity Employer

    CSLB# 935263
    NJSLB#13VH06163900
  •  
    Location: Antelope Valley, CA
    Compensation: Draw vs. Commission-At Quota: $150K+ Annual Earnings Target

    MIT - Collecting Solar Energy on Cloudy Days

    ABC News Reporter Bill Weir interviews MIT energy researchers including an eco-architect. This idea of building vertical shapes to catch ambient light is similar to the model the Tel Aviv researchers are pursuing from the article below.

    In this video the researchers tell how using taller vertical shapes can catch ambient light. Applying solar cells to vertical structures makes them more effective and efficient at absorbing and re-emitting light even on cloudy days. The complaint/problem about solar power only working on bright days is being worked on by discovering which shapes work best for light collection and absorption.

    Vertical structures wouldn't be acceptable on homeowners roofs but these models are for solar energy collection in city hubs that would be distributed to surrounding buildings. They could also be placed in neighborhoods where homeowners could tap into the more efficient collectors and not have to install solar roof systems. This is already going on in some states but using regular shaped small solar arrays not these vertical models.


    Sunday, November 20, 2011

    Nano-Antenna Solar Panels from Tel Aviv University

    Tel Aviv University Department of Physical Electronics team lead by Professor Koby Scheuer are researching and developing a different type of solar panel. The panels they are experimenting with will be made of a plastic material with "nano-antennas" imprinted on them using a microfabrication type of printer called a nano-imprinting lithography machine. The goal being how to create a cost-effective plastic-based panel using the small metallic antennas.

    The team is taking advantage of their new research lab at the Renewable Energy Center to find out how efficient small metallic antennas (nano-antennas) are at collecting sunlight and then re-emitting wattage. These very tiny nano-antennas work best when their fabricated at differing lengths because light has a very short wavelength. The current results show by differing the lengths of the small aluminum and gold antennas they absorb and re-emit light very efficiently. In fact initial results show that 95% of the wattage that goes into each antenna comes out with only 5% being wasted. No semiconductor can handle the broad spectrum of light that these nano-antennas can pick up. The variable antennas absorb and re-emit more efficiently than semiconductor material according to their findings.

    The team has come up with the first new solar panel prototype which is made of a large sheet of plastic imprinted with nano-antennas of varying shapes and lengths. Further, they are trying to see how electromagnetic energy converts to an electric current and how that process can be improved. Their large plastic panel with the gold and aluminum antennas needs to be refined to reach parity with the cost of cheap semiconductor material.

    More details about the nano-antenna solar panels at Tel Aviv University.

    Saturday, November 19, 2011

    GM Takes Cautions with Chevy Volt Batteries

    The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration will be conducting safety tests on lithium-Ion batteries. Three weeks after conducting a crash test on the Chevy volt on May 12th of this year one of the cars caught on fire.

    Chevy thinks that something sharp like a piece of steel pierced the battery and coolant leaked into the battery causing the fire. Their tests show if steel penetrates the battery the temperature will rise and catch on fire making the volt go up in flames.

    GM has been tackling the problem and Jim Federico, GM's chief engineer for electric cars, says a process is in place to drawn down power from the battery after a crash. He wrote on ChevroletVoltage.com that the fire occurred because the battery didn't completely discharge after the crash test. GM developed their battery depowering process after the U.S. NHTSA test. As a result, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has given the Volt it's top crash rating.

    Another spokesman for GM Doug Wernert said the Volt has been tested extensively and never had a car catch on fire. They also conducted a joint crash test with the NHTSA to try and recreate what happened after the May 12th test and the Volt passed the safety test.

    However, there's been criticism from car safety groups saying GM should've never released the car to the public without giving the battery depowering procedure out to firefighters, mechanics and salvage workers. First responders at a car accident need to know how to disconnect or discharge the lithium-ion battery. Chevy would send out their engineers to check out the Volt after an accident and if needed discharged the battery. But, they dropped the ball by not alerting the public and auto industry pros who need to know this information.

    GM says there's a mechanism to disconnect the 16-kilowatt-hour battery from the car. They place the battery in the center of the Volt which they say is the safest placement.

    By contrast, Nissan encases it's Leaf battery in steel.

    GM engineer Federico said the Volt is safe. There's always a risk of fire after a serious crash whether the car is electric or gas powered.

    More on Federico's statement at chevroletvoltage.com.

    Thursday, November 17, 2011

    GM Charging Vehicles with a Tracking Solar Tree

    Hovering over GM's Vehicle Operations Facility in Warren MI is a solar charging canopy called "Tracking Solar Tree." The tracking canopy built by Envision Solar will produce up to 30,000 kilowatt hours of solar power per year and charges 6 electric vehicles.

    The Tracking Solar Tree uses a hybrid multi-axis tracking design which allows the entire canopy to turn and tilt into the best position to absorb the rays.

    These solar tracking trees made by Envision Solar are so popular that Envision says it's received over $1,000,000 in new orders since the 2nd quarter of 2011 for it's patented EnvisionTrak Solar Tree structures. It's received orders from the U.S. government for these solar tracking structures.

    The company has been fabricating and designing a "Mini-Tracking Solar Tree" for single car use and shipped the first one produced to a site in northern California. Envision Solar reported a profit for the 2nd quarter of 2011.

    More on Envision's Solar Tracking Tree Structures at Envision Solar.

    Jobs In Solar: Agriculture & Manufacturing Salesperson (Maryland)

    Date: 2011-11-15, 8:54AM EST
    Reply to: HR@flsenergy.com

    FLS Energy, Inc.
    Agriculture & Manufacturing Salesperson Job Description

    POSITION

    FLS Energy Inc. is a solar energy generation company that is looking for an experienced Agriculture & Manufacturing (A&M) Salesperson in the Maryland area. She/he is responsible for solar business development in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors. The A&M Salesperson will report to and work closely with the Sales Manager. S/he will be responsible for all aspects of the business development including lead and demand generation, proposals, and contract negotiation. S/he must be able to adapt to a continually evolving environment and thrive in an autonomous and deadline-oriented workplace.

    Qualifications

    The Agriculture & Manufacturing Salesperson will have the following experience and attributes:

    • Bachelor's degree, an MBA is a plus.
    • At least 5 years of commercial/B2B sales experience, preferably in agriculture and/or manufacturing sectors.
    • Strong selling skills, with exceptional analytical, organizational, and communication abilities.
    • The ability to problem solve and work independently.
    • Demonstrated past success exceeding sales targets, and increasing share of segment in the assigned territory/segment.
    • Strong computer skills including knowledge of MS Office and CRM Software.
    • Highly organized and disciplined.
    • Strong interpersonal skills.

    For further information on our company please visit our website at www.flsenergy.com

    Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

    Location: Maryland
    Compensation: To Be Determined

    Wednesday, November 16, 2011

    FastRunner-High Tech Robot

    FastRunner the high tech robot being developed by MIT and the Florida Institute of Human and Machine Cognition is not currently powered by solar energy but anything in the high tech world is possible.

    This "bot" "FastRunner" is one of the fastest and most agile robots to date. It's movement is based on how ostrich legs work. The bot's legs sport a motor and springs that store energy then release that energy (similar to solar energy storage?) for sustained quick movement. Using minimal battery power, the bot can zip up hills and climb up and down stairs as well as around obstacles at a fast pace while carrying heavy gear.

    The bot will eventually be able to carry any type of payload that it's locking and unlocking legs can carry. They are envisioning all sorts of military and non-military uses for these bots as well as the creation of "humanoid" bots. 

    Here's the movement of FastRunner in it's current developmental stage:




    Dr. Russ Tedrake of MIT says FastRunner can hit 27 mph currently and they hope to see it speeding away at over 50 miles an hour at some point.

    More details about FastRunner at Wired.

    Tuesday, November 15, 2011

    Jobs In Solar: Solar System Designer (Hopkinton, MA)

    Date: 2011-11-11, 4:54PM EST
    Reply to: see below


    Are you looking for a rewarding role where you can leverage your experience and knowledge?
    Are you seeking an environment where you can increase your design skills?

    Then, we want to hear from you!

    Astrum Solar
    (www.astrumsolar.com) is a rapidly growing company whose goal is to spread solar power to rooftops across the US, targeting residential customers. We aim to innovate in the sales and marketing of solar to consumers and to make it easy and exciting for homeowners to go solar. We are looking for reliable, hard working, and detail-oriented candidates to design residential solar power systems in Massachusetts. Areas of activity will include the Boston metro area and may include western Massachusetts.


    Solar System Designer

    As the talented Solar System Designer, you will measure system locations, complete estimates of solar exposure and perform shade analyses of system locations. Design will be completed through a combination of field work and computer modeling. This job requires getting on roof tops -- candidates must not be afraid of heights -- as well as visiting system locations, taking roof top measurements, solar trajectory, shading and learning to use solar equipment (Pathfinder or Suneye).

    The ideal candidate will possess the following:
    • Bachelor's degree
    • Familiarity with Google SketchUp, as system designs are presented using SketchUp
    • Excellent computer skills
    • Good communication skills and the ability to interact in a team environment
    • Efficient time management in order to handle multiple projects simultaneously including prioritizing, organizing and planning effectively to meet all deadlines
    • Company transportation will be provided for travel to job sites, but applicants should have their own form of transportation for other travel to/from office
    • Training provided by company

    Benefits:
    We value our employees' time and efforts. Our commitment to your success is enhanced by our competitive compensation of $32K annually and an extensive benefits package including paid time off, medical, dental and vision benefits, 401(k), and future growth opportunities within the company. Plus, we work to maintain the best possible environment for our employees, where people can learn and grow with the company. We strive to provide a collaborative, creative environment where each person feels encouraged to contribute to our processes, decisions, planning and culture.

    To Apply:
    Please submit your resume to: http://www.astrumsolar.com/careers

    EOE
    Location: Hopkinton, MA

    Andrea Rossi Explains His Energy Catalyzer

    Here we have Mr. Rossi explaining how his catalyzer works filmed a few months ago.


    Sunday, November 13, 2011

    California Reaches One Gigawatt of Solar Power

    Environment California, a California based renewable energy advocacy group reports that the state of California has hit it's goal of 1 gigawatt of rooftop solar installations. That's 1000 megawatts of solar panels which is the rough equivalent of two coal-fired plants and produces enough energy to charge up 750,000 homes across the state.

    “Getting to one gigawatt is a fantastic marker of the momentum towards California's clean energy future,” said Danny Kennedy, President of Sungevity, who hosted today’s event. “Riding the exponential curve of growth, which is akin to the mass adoption of cell phones or satellite TVs, will create many more good jobs and great opportunity for the Golden State.”

    "With the Million Solar Roofs program, California made a strategic decision to invest in real solar market transformation—to lay the groundwork for significant cost reduction and the long-term growth of a new industry,” reflected Adam Browning, Executive Director of Vote Solar. “Now at the program's halfway point we see that investment delivering on its promise.”

    In 2011 alone - 205 megawatts of solar power was installed much of it fueled by the California Solar Initiative which provided $3 billion in state incentives.

    The report also pointed out that 20% of all U.S. solar power companies operate out of California. That's 3,500 solar businesses that employ over 25,000 people. The installation industry has doubled since 2007 providing jobs for individuals who have trained to be a part of the organic growth.

    California Solar Industries Association Executive Director Mignon Marks said more than 100,000 solar rooftop systems have been installed since the Million Solar Roofs program began.

    Marks noted “We’re thrilled that our members have benefited from this program, yet our focus remains building the market for the long term.”

    More details at San Francisco Chronicle.

    Wednesday, November 9, 2011

    Jobs In Solar: Solar - Patterning Cell Technician (Thornton-Denver CO)

    Date: 2011-11-08, 10:22AM MST
    Reply to: job-qvuwg-2691695960@craigslist.org

    We are a growing company who produces solar panels and are currently looking for someone who has a passion for renewable energy who is interested in working a 3rd shift position. If you have the following skills, please send your resume for immediate consideration!

    Responsibilities

    • Troubleshoot and repair laser equipment; first level maintenance as required depending on the process equipment assigned
    • Operate laser roll-to-roll processing equipment; perform precision work required in the processing and assembly of solar films
    • Operate or execute process steps using a mix of processing equipment, manual processing, test equipment and metrology tools
    • Will interact closely with peer technicians, engineers, and scientists to effectively produce high quality modules
    • Execute production runs and experiments under the guidance of engineers and/or production management; provide critical feedback to engineering on process deviations
    • Support the handling of hazardous waste material in accordance to federal, state and local regulations; individual will be trained (upon hire and annually) for the requirements of safe handling and proper disposal of any material deemed to be hazardous and the proper use of PPE for this activity

    Requirements

    • Associate's Degree in a technical field (electronics, chemistry, physics, or related discipline) is preferred, but recent 2 to 4 years related work experience is acceptable
    • Must be detail-oriented and work autonomously with minimal direction
    • Basic knowledge of SPC and how it is used in a manufacturing environment
    • Ability to read and interpret drawings
    • Possess understanding of laser systems, mechanics, electronics and/or electromechanical as well as general troubleshooting skills
    • Good capability to learn and execute defined procedures and processes carefully and accurately
    • Experience with and capable of production processing involving hazardous chemicals
    • Experience in operating, trouble-shooting laser and UVP equipment
    • Good understanding of safety protocol working with and around toxic/hazardous materials
    • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment

    Location: Thornton-Denver, CO
    Compensation: $14-$18 per hour / Benefits available right away including medical and dental

    Tuesday, November 8, 2011

    Accenture Survey Finds Utilities Must Adapt to Increased Solar Power Use

    Global management and technology company Accenture has a new study out showing a rise in residential and commercial solar installations as well as large scale solar distributors. Unfortunately, a lot of utilities aren't ready for the extra power being fed into their part of the grid.

    Thirty-eight percent of utility executives who responded to Accenture's survey found that their utilities are going to have to upgrade or deal with operational problems. Challenges such as needing to provide power and voltage support, more interconnection requirements as well problems with grid stability when islanding occurs.

    Survey found that 51% of solar panel systems are customer owned, 34% are owned by utilities and 15% are owned by a non-utility developer or distributor that sells large amounts of generated electricity to utilities or on the wholesale market.

    David M. Rouls Accenture's managing director of Smart Grid Services said that solar power has great potential to be a source of renewable energy because of the cost of panel production coming down but utilities will have to adapt and change to accommodate the coming large scale solar electricity supply that will be feeding into their smart grids.

    Read more survey finding by Accenture.

    Monday, November 7, 2011

    DIY: How to Use Solar Power for an Electric Fence

    Editor:  Use caution when using electric fencing. Legitimate uses include protecting people from wildlife, airport protection, controlling dangerous wildlife, etc. Non-lethal electric fencing is more common and typically used by auto auctions, military bases, freight carriers, prisons and warehouses.

    Using Solar Power With Electric Fencing
    By P. Savory

    The decision to use Electric Fencing situated in remote areas has been at a disadvantage due to the necessity of a regular power source normally supplied by a 12v recyclable battery. When using the larger 6 joule energisers drawing up to 500 mAmps this may be as frequent as every two weeks. Even then, as the voltage in the battery drops so does that in the fence as the energiser is a complex transformer converting the 9v to the running 6000+ volts. During recent years the development of advanced solar collection systems has changed the attitude of suppliers to this form of energy. In the past a panel could convert less than 5% of the energy available. However the efficiency of the modern monocrystalline panels run at nearly 20% and are better able to convert ambient light as well as direct sunlight to electricity. As a result a panel is no longer only suitable in the summer months and may now be used in the winter period as well.

    Solar powered electric fences work by first collecting and then converting natural sunlight through special paneling named solar PV panels. This energy is then diverted to power packs (batteries) ready to be released when the energiser draws power. The arguments for installing a solar electrified fence.

    1. A solar powered electric fence is able to run without access to mains electricity, this allows you to erect fences where it would usually be tough or not worthwhile. Isolated areas such as mountaintops or meadows can be contained without needing to struggle up and down every few days to replace the battery. A solar panel will energise the battery by day and the battery will provide energy to the electric fence all the time.

    2. Solar electrified fences are transportable Solar powered fence energisers are easy to move if you intend to relocate your fence to a different plot. This is particularly useful should you decide to relocate cattle to graze in different areas. Unlike mains charged fences which need to remain near to a power source, Solar powered electrified fences can be taken down and re-built anywhere they are needed.

    3. A battery will last longer by not being constantly drained of its charge. A battery who's charge is maintained will last longer than one that is constantly being drained and recharged.

    4. Another common problem with energisers are power surges between the main source of energy and the fence system. Solar powered chargers just do not fail this way. They can't because they are not hooked up to the main electrical energy source.

    5. The longer the section of fence you want to energise, the stronger the energiser you will need. These larger energisers will create a greater draw on the battery so a larger solar panel will be required.

    When selecting a place in which to use your solar powered electric fence it is important to put thought to where to put the solar panel for the best exposure to the sun's rays. The rest of your fence can be blocked by cloud but the panel must have access to as much direct sunlight as possible. Once you have decided on the placement of your PV Panels stop and ask yourself whether this panel will have sunlight year round or could a switch in season stop its access to sunlight. For this reason it is also advisable to check your panels once a month to ensure that they are constantly angled at an appropriate angle. In order to insure that an Electric Fence will remain functioning during the long winter months it is suggested that a larger than required panel is used. All modern panels protect the battery from over charging. A reasonable rule of thumb would be a 10 watt panel for energisers under 3 joules, a 20 watt panel for energisers over this.

    There are tricks available to increase the output of a solar panel. A mirror placed so that it reflects suns rays on bto the panel will boost output. Care must be taken as it is possible to burn out the panel. Agrisellex Electric Fencing has been installing and consulting on Electric Fencing systems and solutions for over 30 years.

    Saturday, November 5, 2011

    Jobs In Solar: Field Solar Position! (Los Angeles CA)

    Date: 2011-11-03, 10:47AM PDT
    Reply to: see below

    Verengo is changing the way Americans think about solar. We have quickly grown to be the largest residential solar integrator in Southern California by focusing on innovative ways to attract customers and deliver a fantastic customer experience. Verengo grew by 75% in 2010 and plans to double in size in 2011 by growing in Southern California and expanding into new markets across the nation..

    Due to growth, we are looking for Electricians, Foremen, Solar Technicians, Roofers, and Serviceman.

    Please apply at: www.VerengoSolar.com/careers

    Location: Los Angeles, CA
    Compensation:  Based on experience

    Wednesday, November 2, 2011

    Jobs In Solar: Experienced Electricians and Plumbers (Chicago IL area)

    Date: 2011-11-01, 1:59PM CDT
    Reply to: job-bnzxf-2679978143@craigslist.org

    Experienced, licensed and insured electricians and plumbers are needed to install solar hot water heaters for a solar energy company.
    Growing industry with great opportunities and good payment.
    Experience with solar energy industry is a plus.

    Please email resumes and contact the project manager Landis Beckett at Solar One Shop at 773-844-2603.

    Location: Chicago, IL area

    Tuesday, November 1, 2011

    Wind Turbines 101

    The wind turbine industry has a way to go to become economical as do most of the alternative energies. Problems associated with Wind Farms include birds being killed by the blades and finding economical ways to store the energy produced by nighttime wind.  If the energy created at night is not stored in an efficient way it's wasted as most homes and businesses draw the energy during daylight hours.

    The energy output is often very uneven and plans are in the works to develop technologies to tackle that problem.

    Here's a 101 on how Wind Turbines work to capture energy: