Progress Energy and Palm Harbor Homes Team Up

Energy efficiency is one of the best reasons to choose a new Palm Harbor home. Now we're exploring a way to make it even better.

Progress Energy has teamed up with Palm Harbor and the Florida Solar Energy Center to study the operation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in manufactured homes.

Initially, we're choosing six new Palm Harbor homes. Wiring, roof mounts and other pre-installation components will go in place at the factory, and the PV systems will be installed once the homes reach their sites. Then, Progress Energy will monitor each system for a year or longer.

Just What Are Solar Photovoltaics?

Basically, PV systems convert sunlight directly into electricity. Commonly known as "solar cells," these systems already power more than 1 billion handheld calculators, as well as millions of watches, portable lights and battery chargers. Larger, more complex systems provide electricity to pump water, power communications equipment, light homes and operate appliances.

Researchers believe that PV is potentially one of the most useful of all the renewable energy technologies.

How Does it Work?

The heart of a PV system is a solid-state cell made of semiconductor material like that used in microelectronics. It's usually silicon, the basic ingredient in common beach sand.

The cell's semiconductor "wafer" is specially treated to form a positive electric field on one side and a negative field on the other, and electrical conductors are attached to both sides.

When sunlight strikes the cell, it knocks loose electrons, which are captured in the form of electric current.

Why is PV Such A Bright Idea?

The most obvious advantage of using a solar PV system is that the electricity it provides is absolutely free! Of course, conventional sources of electricity are still necessary after dark, because PV relies on sunlight. But it can still make a noticeable difference in your power bill.

And you would have the satisfaction that comes with knowing you're helping to protect the environment.