10 Reasons Why The World Should Go Solar

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

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Guys, what's up? 7K+ people in this amazing group of News lovers and climbing! So proud to be connected with all of you. We have a better way! 

You’ve probably heard of it; Solar Power. The way to go green by using the sun for electricity and much, much more. 

If you take a serious look into all the possibilities that solar power has to offer, you are going to wonder why the whole world is not running on it yet. Here are the 10 reasons why the world should go solar:

1. It saves you money

One of the things that make Solar Power stand out is how on the long haul you are going to save money. Sure, getting them might be a bit expensive, but after a few years your wallet is going to thank you. Money saved can go up to $2400 a year (for homeowners) and up to $6000 a year (for business owners). You could take the family to Disney for that money. 

2. Solar energy is a way to escape the hold countries have on other countries

A lot of natural resources like oil, coal and gas are imported into our country from other countries. This means that when something happens in those countries, like lets say a war, we could potentially be cut off from supplies. Solar Power does not face that problem as it is possible in any country anywhere. 

3. It’s better for the climate 

Critics have pointed out that by making solar panels certain chemicals are released into out atmosphere that form a bigger danger than carbon dioxide. What they fail to mention is that more carbon dioxide is released into the air per day from all over the world than the chemicals used to make solar panels. For solar panels this is a one time thing, once it’s made it’s made and no chemicals are released anymore and that’s better for the climate than your car ever will be. 

4. Jobs 

If there is more solar power used there will also be more jobs for people out there. Especially in this economy those are needed, as unemployment rates are still on the rise in almost all of the countries across the globe. By creating a bigger market for solar power you will also be creating more jobs for more people. 

5. The sun isn’t going to run out of light 

Another of the pros of solar power is the fact that the sun won’t be running out of light anytime soon. However we will be through natural resources like oil and gas eventually. 

6. It has many purposes 

Solar power can be used in an infinite number of ways. The only thing that’s limiting us is our creativity. Currently there are satellites in our inner and outer atmosphere completely powered by solar power. Cars that break speed records are powered by solar power. In Africa water is being distilled by solar power.. Well, isn't that awesome?!

7. It’s easily integratable into your home or community 

Your house probably already has a roof where you can place solar panels, but even for those of us who live in apartment buildings there are great options available. By placing a field with solar panels inside a community, or outside a town when you need more space, you can easily generate enough energy for a whole neighbourhood. Which brings me onto my next point..

8. It’s usable everywhere 

Any country and any person in the world could live off of solar power. It could easily change the world and save a lot of people who are currently dying because of the lack of electricity, heating or drinkable water. 

9. Solar powered roads 

Not that long ago a huge online fundraiser for solar roadways was held. They got way more than their original goal of $1 million and no wonder. Solar Roadways are freaking awesome and here’s why; They will make driving safer for people and for animals, because they light up when anything walks over them, heat up in cold areas so the roads are not snowy and more. Plus they are very durable and take way less maintenance than those asphalt roads. Want to know more about this amazing project? 

Check them out here.

10. Low maintenance

Solar Power is low maintenance. Did you know that solar panels only have to be cleaned a few times a year? With everything you get out of them that’s just a small price to pay. Once your installation is up, there is almost nothing to do to maintain the installation.

The Bottom Line is: Solar Power has the power to change the world and it’s all up to us whether or not we take all the opportunities it has to offer to make this world a better one. 

SEE ALSO: CNETTV : Robots Pivot Solar Panels to face the Sun by QBotix

Have a nice week! If you liked this post please leave your good comments in the box below.

*by andreascy*

Do the Benefits of Oil Rig Jobs Outweigh the Risks?

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

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Do the benefits of working on an oil rig outweigh the risks? That depends on the person. Those who enjoy a physically challenging job, travel, adventure, team work and a large paycheck would likely enjoy working on an oil rig. 

However, those who do not wish to be away from home for long periods of time, don't want to endure extreme working conditions or live in the middle of the ocean would be miserable.

Benefits

The benefits of working in the oil industry are appealing. Jobs are plentiful since the demand for energy is increasing. One does not need a degree to begin, and there is plenty of room for advancement. Oil companies prefer to promote from within to save money on training costs. The pay for an entry level worker can be over $1,000 a week, with skilled and professional workers making two or three times as much. Food, board and travel expenses are paid for by the company. Many companies offer excellent benefits, including medical, dental and life insurance, 401(k) programs and profit sharing. Living conditions are reputed to be excellent, even comparing to 4- and 5-star hotels. Opportunities for rest and leisure are provided, and may include satellite TV and phones, updated selections of DVDs, video games, an Internet connection, gyms, saunas and more.

Oil rig employees work long, often 12-hour days but in rotating shifts. For example, in two-weeks-on, two-weeks-off increments or fourteen days on and twenty one days off, meaning employees work only half the year or less. Workers are needed in countries all over the world, including Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, Russia, Norway, Venezuela, China and Scotland. Employees eat, sleep and work with a diversity of people.

A variety of skilled laborers are needed, including welders, scaffolders, medics, radio operators, painters, electricians, maintenance supervisors, crane operators, caterers and mechanics. There are even different kinds of rigs to work on, such as semi-submersible, platform, jack up, drill ships, flotels, and floating production and storage units. 

Oil companies do their best to insure safety and provide safety boots, glasses, hard hats and coveralls. A medical staff is on board at all times. Bonuses and higher pay may be available for working in the harshest conditions.

Risks

Disasters are infrequent on oil rigs, but when they do occur they can be devastating. In the event of a disaster, the Coast Guard will respond but may take time to reach the rig. Survivors must wait in life boats or rafts for rescue. There's no denying the risk of death and serious injury while working on an oil rig. Employees are constantly working around heavy machinery and combustible materials, and gas leaks are common. Conditions can be harsh, ranging from sweltering heat to below freezing. The work is stressful and physically demanding. The sea is unpredictable, and workers may even have to weather hurricanes on the rig. Fatigue can be a problem, and the machinery is complex, it's easy to make a fatal mistake. Workers must be alert and work as a team at all times. Rules are strict; employees must follow orders to ensure safety. The oil rig is isolated, and workers may feel lonely and worry about the emotional stress put on their families. It is an environment not unlike the military.

Working on an oil rig can be an exciting and financially rewarding experience. However, it's a high-risk setting that requires strength and fortitude. If you have some years of experience working on oil refineries, we'd be glad to use your knowledge and educate people about your industry.

*by andreascy*

4 Effective Tips for Reducing Your Electricity Bill

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

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These days it's way too easy for the typical American household to have an enormous electricity bill. Between home appliances, televisions, video game systems, computers, and phone chargers we consume a lot of electricity. 

Thankfully, it is entirely possible and actually very simple to live a comfortable life without a huge electricity bill. Here are four simple tips that will help lower your electricity bill. 

1. Use Your Air Conditioner Wisely

Using an air conditioner can add a lot to your electric bill. Instead of turning up your air conditioner and wondering why your energy bill is so high, try keeping it at 78 degrees when you're home. If that isn't cool enough for you, there are other things you can do to keep your home comfortable in the summer. Ceiling fans can help a home feel cooler even if they don't actually cool the surrounding air, and closing the blinds on your windows can give your home some much-needed shade. 

Using an air conditioner wisely also means keeping it in working order. Check the filters at least every thirty days, and clean or replace them as needed. Schedule a maintenance check with an air conditioner repair specialist every season. A good central air conditioning system will last for years, but if it isn't maintained it will be forced to work harder and cost you extra on your energy bill.

2. Invest in Fluorescent Light Bulbs

Fluorescent light bulbs may be initially more expensive than incandescent light bulbs, but they last about ten times longer and are much more energy efficient. Overall, a single incandescent light bulb costs as much to operate as six fluorescent light bulbs. With this type of inefficient light bulb Invest in fluorescent if you really want to save money on your electricity bill.

3. Pick the Right Oven

Microwaves consume 90 percent less energy than an electric oven, so you should be using your microwave more often if you are trying to save money on your electric bill. If you would rather not use a microwave for your cooking, there are other energy-efficient options available. For example, a toaster oven is perfect for baking or roasting smaller items, and it still uses less energy than a conventional oven. A convection oven also cooks food 35 percent faster than a conventional oven. 

4. Make Sure Things are Turned Off

Turning off the lights in a room before you leave should be a no-brainer, but these days people leave their computers and video game systems on all the time, even when they aren't using them. Even in standby or sleep mode, electronics are still using electricity. Many of these devices require an extra step to actually shut them down completely. If you're not going to use them anytime soon, take that extra step to make sure they aren't wasting electricity.

For your needs we recommend to seek a professional help from a home renovator or a DIY specialist who can offer you specific energy efficient solutions. Let us know about the details and we'll guide you step by step how to achieve it.

*by andreascy*

What You Should Know About Oil and Gas This Summer

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description :

Oil and gas prices are known to rise significantly in the summer, and this summer appears to be no exception. Have you ever wondered why oil and gas prices continue to rise, despite increased levels of production and a booming oil industry?

This article argues that governmental policies have restricted the development of US-based oil production, keeping prices high for the average American. The good news is that prices are expected to drop in the near future due to lowered demand and increased supply. 

Rising Prices and Policies

Former President George W. Bush and President Barack Obama have created policies that force major car manufacturers to design more efficient cars that provide a higher miles-per-gallon, which may help lower demand and gas prices in the long term. However, the government has also blocked American energy companies from obtaining the land access they need to produce oil and gas on US soil. This causes America to be subject to prices set by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), even though the US has enough oil shale to last two centuries or more.

Oil and Gas This Summer

The demand for oil and gas is likely to soon fall. This is because the temperature this summer is expected to be cooler, and fewer utilities are being switched from coal to gas. In spite of this fall in demand, natural gas prices will rise this summer compared to 2012. 

Gas production will also be far higher this summer, according to Natural Gas Supply Association. New processing plants and pipelines are being constructed to carry natural gas from previously inaccessible regions, like the Marcellus Shale. Governor Rick Perry in Texas and the State of North Dakota are leading the effort to expand pipelines in the US. 

A Plunge in Oil and Gas Prices in the Future?

According to the International Energy Agency, we are about to witness a period of exceptionally low gas prices. The period will last for five years, and estimates for the plunge vary. The relief will be the result of a higher spare capacity and an increased number of oil fields. The current spare capacity is 3,000,000 barrels a day across the planet, and it is expected to increase to about 7,000,000 barrels a day by next year. It will continue to grow in the future. The current demand for fuel is equally balanced by supply, but in the next few years, supply will likely outpace demand.

According to Citigroup, we may witness oil prices of $80 a barrel through 2017, when the price could drop to less than $50. 

Certainly, governmental policies bolstering US-based gas production infrastructure would likely have prevented the oil crisis we have suffered since the early 21st century. With an increase in production, however, coupled by a projected fall in demand, this crisis may soon be righted, relieving the pressure on many American families who rely on oil and gas every day.

SEE ALSO: Do the Benefits of Oil Rig Jobs Outweigh the Risks?

We recommend doing more research and keeping yourself up to date on issues with oil and gas. Subscribe on our RSS feed and follow us on Twitter and Facebook and we'll manage to serve you well!

Thanks for visiting! 😍

*by andreascy*

The Newest Eco-Friendly Apartment Building Trends

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description : 

The importance of conserving the Earth's limited resources finally seems like it's gotten through to mainstream culture in recent years. People are beginning to understand how crucial it is to find more efficient energy alternatives.

As of late, the use of environmentally friendly construction materials is on the rise. Many of these "green-living" ideas are implemented in today's modern apartments. When looking for a new apartment, here are some of the most popular ones to look for:

1. Strategic Orientation of a Home to Maximize Sunlight

Building an apartment in a location that receives a lot of sunlight is an ingenious way to save money on heating and lighting. Many engineers and architects are figuring out ways to design buildings that can take advantage of sunlight as much as possible. The orientation of the building makes a huge impact on how natural light is able to come through the windows, so strategic positioning is definitely an eco-friendly way to light up and heat up a place.

2. Exclusive Use of LED Lights

LED lights are a great choice for any apartment, house, business, or any situation where lighting is needed. Why? LED lights are not only brighter than the typical incandescent light bulbs, they are far more energy efficient too. Most LED lights give off a pleasant, white glow and only use about 20% of the energy that standard bulbs use. Renters can easily cut their electric bills in half after replacing all incandescent bulbs with LEDs.

3. Roofs Made from Copper

Metal roofs, especially copper roofs, are becoming a stylish choice in the world of apartments. First, they are quite inexpensive to purchase and install, and they also require very little maintenance. Secondly, they look great when paired with the right architecture. Copper roofs have a very long life span, with up to a century of use. Finally, they can be recycled with ease. What's not to like?

4. Rainwater Collection Units

If people have survived on rainwater for countless years, why can't we make use of it today? Rainwater collection units are set up in strategic locations around the apartment to collect the runoff. This water can then be used for watering the lawn and garden and general cleaning use.

5. Counter Tops Made from Easily Accessible Wood Sources

Granite counter tops have been popular for many years, but it seems that cheap, wood counters are spreading like wildfire through many apartment complexes. What's the appeal of wooden counter tops? Aesthetically, they obviously look good. More importantly, wooden counter tops that come from rapid growing trees like bamboo do much less harm to our forests and environment. When slow-growing trees are used for wood, the environment takes a much bigger hit because animal homes are lost and oxygen production is halted for a much longer amount of time.

6. Water-Saving Toilets

Using the restroom is something that all civilized people must do, flushing the toilet is an unavoidable consequence. Compared to standard toilets, those designed to conserve water can cut water consumption by 20%. These efficient systems can significantly decrease your water bill and put more money in your pocket.

7. Electric Stove Tops

Induction stovetops are much more eco-friendly than gas versions because far less energy is lost when turned on. Heat transfer through physical contact is a better alternative to turning on a flame that burns your money away with every use.

YOU MIGHT LIKE: Tips On Making Your Office Greener

As always you can send your questions to us by email.

*by andreascy*

Tips On Making Your Office Greener

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description : 

As we are all members of this planet, it is our duty to do our part to keep it looking beautiful. In an office setting, it could be difficult to keep this in mind while completing your daily tasks.

License: Creative Commons

But being a little bit greener is not difficult and should not have to inconvenience you or your workers at all. Simple changes, like conserving electricity, using recycled office supplies, and cutting waste, are just a few ways you can do your part in healing the Earth.

Conserve Energy When Possible

One way to make an office greener is to conserve the use of energy when possible. Obviously, with computers as part of our every day lives, electricity is vital, but it can be minimized. Installing motion sensors on the lights in offices is a great way to cut electricity uses. This way, if someone forgets to turn off a light in their office, after a while, it will automatically shut off. Furthermore, urging everyone to turn off their computers at night could drastically reduce energy consumption. If possible, installing solar panels will substantially reduce energy use and also save money.

Use Recycled Office Supplies

As the world has yet to go completely paperless, it's impossible to stop your office from using natural resources, but things can be done to reduce the collective carbon footprint of the office. The easiest way is to use recycled office products, namely, recycled printer paper. But it does not have to stop there. There are other recyclable office materials that can not only save you money, but also, help save Mother Earth. For example, aftermarket toner is a recycled form of toner that is cheaper and greener, and it is an easy change to implement in your office.

Cut Waste

Cutting waste is an important part of going green, but sometimes waste can sneak up on you in aspects that you wouldn’t think about. Does your company have a water cooler? If it does, consider making the switch away from disposable cups. Instead, persuade your employees to switch to refillable plastic or metal bottles, maybe even hand them out as a gift. It would also be helpful to educate them on what can and cannot be recycled. Some times, the greatest ally you can have in trying to be conservative is knowledge, so a quick seminar about where to put certain materials could save time, money, and especially, the environment in the long run.

Check us out on Twitter (@andreaschriscy, #officialandreascy) to see what else we have to say!

*by andreascy*

Why A Solar Set-Up Is A Good Idea

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description : 

It’s no surprise: In today’s world, we use a lot of excess energy and power. With so much technology, we stretch our resources to the limit to power our convenient lifestyles. We also emit a lot of pollution into the atmosphere. But who ever said that in order to have convenience, you have to forget about the Earth and what’s best for the environment? 

Fortunately, there’s an alternative – for your house, anyway. It is called a Solar Set-Up, and it can do a lot for you, as you do a lot for the environment. What are the advantages to having one for your home? Here are the positive features of a solar set-up:

Saves On Utility Costs

When you invest in a solar set-up, you actually save money overall. How? Your utility bills can decrease by as much as 20 to 30 percent each month. That is money that really adds up over time, amounting to over thousands of dollars, so you can actually end up saving a lot of money over the years.

Protects the Environment

By getting a solar set-up, you can really do your part for the environment. Using solar panels, a solar set-up converts DC power into AC power, which is then used to generate your household electricity. In addition, a solar set-up reduces the amount of CO2 emitted into the atmosphere. The average American home emits more than 16,000 pounds of CO2 annually, so switching to this set-up really does drastically reduce pollution and does its part for the environment.

No Large, Upfront Investment

If you’re thinking “That sounds great, but I just don’t know if I could afford it,” you’re in luck. While some companies make it so expensive that you have to finance your solar set-up, others work to make it more affordable. Companies like Vivint make it affordable because they don’t have these large, upfront costs. For example, Vivint uses a Power Purchase Agreement, or PPA. A PPA is an agreement where you buy the power your system produces. And it’s at a lower rate than you would otherwise pay on your utility bill.

Professionally Trained Installers and Complete In-House Management

Companies like Vivint also have professionally trained installers and complete in-house management. Basically, this means the homeowner doesn’t have to worry about whether or not the system is set up correctly. For example, Vivint’s installation staff completes rigorous training in order to provide quality service. And unlike some providers, companies like Vivint manage the entire process in-house so that good service and customer satisfaction is a guarantee.

RECOMMENDED: 10 Reasons Why The World Should Go Solar

Bottom Line? Going green really is more of a reality than a lot of people think. It is efficient and affordable. And it can really end up saving a lot of money in the long run. In addition, it does a lot for the environment without requiring you to give up anything at all. In the end, these positive features of a solar set-up really make it a win-win situation.

*by andreascy*

Create the Future with SunSaluter and Galaxy Note 10.1

Posted by Andreas Christodoulou

Description : 

The SunSaluter is a technology that enables the automatic rotation of solar panels to follow the sun throughout the day (just like a sunflower) to increase their energy generation - without using any electricity to do so. 

The technology was created by Eden Full and is being developed by her company Roseicollis Technologies.

It has been deployed in two pilot projects in Kenya. Fascinated by biomimicry, Eden Full aims to power a whole village on SunSaluters in Peru and southern India -- by 2013.

The SunSaluter won the Mashable/UN Foundation Startups for Social Good Challenge and was awarded the runner-up prize at the 2011 Postcode Lottery Green Challenge.

"Good technology is something that is simple, something that anyone whether you are 5 years old, a university professor or a farmer in Tanzania, you'd be able to look at it and get it."

Currently in active development, the Roseicollis Technologies website claims that the SunSaluter is :

• Cheaper: It is constructed from locally-sourced and recyclable materials rather than electronic components.

• Simpler: Almost anyone can assemble and maintain it because of its intuitive design.

• Flexible: It can be installed underneath any existing solar panel with a few minor adjustments.

Watch on the video below how the Galaxy Note 10.1 plays a part in creating the future with Eden from SunSaluter.

In order to preserve our planet and encourage societies to adopt renewable energy resources, we need to lower the cost of solar energy so it is more affordable for individual families and their homes and villages. The SunSaluter is a contribution to tackling energy infrastructure growth and climate change.
Read also: Robots Pivot Solar Panels to face the Sun by QBotix
Learn more about Galaxy Note 10.1 and discover other interesting Solar related topics. Subscribe for straight updates to your inbox or your favourite feed reader.

*by andreascy*