Solar power is a clean energy source that utilizes the rays of the sun to generate electricity. Though simple to understand in concept, the installation of roof-mounted solar power systems for residential use is both complex and costly, starting at around $10,000 and easily topping $40,000 for systems that provide all of a home’s power needs. In most cases, a contractor specializing in solar power must be hired to handle the installation. The entire process requires a significant commitment in terms of time and funds—a limiting factor for many consumers who would like to go green but can’t yet afford to.Seattle-based green tech company Clarian Power hopes to change this situation very soon. The company is developing a relatively affordable, turn-key solar appliance for home use called the SunfishTM that is, quite simply, “plug and play.” Explains Clarian President Chad Maglaque, “You bring it home and plug it in, just like a refrigerator, and it will cost about the same [starting at $599].”
The appliance works through the use of a patented micro-inverter, by which the Sunfish is plugged into any outlet (typically outside). Up to five solar panels can then be attached to the device, generating as much as 150 kilowatt hours per month. Though a typical home requires an average of 920 kilowatt hours to be self-sufficient, the Sunfish fills a vital niche for consumers who desire to reduce their carbon footprint within their budget limitations. Applauds Dave Cavanaugh, a senior analyst with Pike Research, “Products like this are a good first step to get people to use less energy from the grid and begin thinking about how they can use energy more efficiently.”
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