Frequently Asked Questions….
What is renewable energy?
Renewable energy comes from energy resources that are continuously replenished through the cycles of nature. Unlike fossil fuels, their supply will never become exhausted. The main sources of renewable energy are:
* sun (solar energy)
* wind
* water (hydropower, wave and tidal energy)
* heat below the surface of the earth (geothermal energy)
* biomass (wood, waste, energy crops)
What are the benefits of renewable energy?
• Renewable energy resources will not become exhausted.
• Unlike finite fossil fuels, renewable resources are continuously replenished and will not run out.
• Renewable energy resources are indigenous resources.
Renewable energy resources are clean sources of energy. They can be harnessed without damaging the environment, unlike using fossil fuels which release carbon dioxide (a greenhouse gas) and other harmful pollutants into the atmosphere.
How does renewable energy contribute to sustainability?
• Renewable energy is a supply-side solution for a sustainable energy economy.
• Renewable energy measures promote sustainability by increasing the supply of energy from sustainable sources.
• Energy efficiency measures promote sustainability by reducing demand and consumption of energy.
Which renewable energy options are relevant to me?
There are a number of options available to homeowners and businesses wishing to go the renewable route. Currently there are grants available for domestic users who wish to install solar panels and technology, wind turbines, and other energy efficient products. Information relating to these grants can be found on the www.dsireusa.org or email support@onestopgreen.com for further details.
Can solar panels and other renewable energy technologies provide heat for my home or building?
Yes. Off Grid Technologies starts by analyzing your current energy usage and will determine ways to reduce your energy consumption. After reducing your usage we will design a clean renewable energy system that can provide up to 100% of your energy needs.
What funding and support is available for renewable energy projects?
Various sources of support are available for project development and research/demonstration projects. DSIRE is a comprehensive source of information on state, local, utility, and federal incentives that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency. Information is available at www.dsireusa.org.
How much electricity can wind turbines and other renewable energy facility produce?
This really depends on the size of the configured turbine. In ideal conditions a 1 MW wind turbine or hydro plant could provide over 3 million units of electricity - enough for around 650 homes. The average American home uses about 4,600 kWh of electricity per year. Off Grid Technologies can design a renewable energy system that will meet your consumption needs.
How can I sell electricity generated from renewables?
Excess energy that is produced from your system is automatically directed to your local utility provider. When this happens your meter actually works in reverse. The excess energy directed to the grid provides you a credit to the utility.
What price will I get for electricity generated from renewables?
This really depends on the market and other varying conditions. Please feel free to contact us for further information about this topic.
Induction Lighting Frequently Asked Questions…
What is induction lighting and how does it work?
The NextLume inductively coupled electrode-less lamp uses magnetic-induction technology instead of an electrode at each end of a fluorescent tube to generate light. The absence of these electrodes allow longer lamp life.
What are the components of the NextLume Induction System?
The system is comprised of two components; the Patented IC ballast and the lamp.
Why Induction Lighting?
Induction lighting offers an incredible 100,000 hours of life making it virtually maintenance free. With 90+ CRI and a wide range of color temperatures from 2700-5000K this lamp delivers the most reliable source of light in an extreme operating temperature conditions or even “on” and “off” applications.
Can running a lamp interfere with computers or any other electronic devices?
NO! The NextLume systems complies or exceeds Low EMI Standards of FCC (47CFR Part No. 18 Non-Consumer) rules with non-interference under normal circumstances.
Will the lamp interfere with telecommunication equipment?
NO! The systems are certified FCC standards (47CFR Part No. 18 Non-Consumer) and are in place to protect navigation and radio communications. The systems will not interfere with portable or cellular phones.
Is the light output of a NextLume Induction System affected by low temperature? High temperatures?
With our proprietary amalgam technology and IC technology our lamps provide a stable light output over a wide range of ambient temperatures, marinating at least 90% of normal lumens from –30° F to 260° F and will start at temperatures as low as –40º F
Does operating position affect the output?
No! The universal operating position does not affect the performance of the NextLume Induction System.
What is the color shift of the NextLume Induction System?
This system operates like most typical fluorescents with the respect to phosphors and will not deviate over time.
Is the NextLume Induction System dimmable?
Yes! The 40 & 80-watt systems are dimmable down to 50% and available on special request.
Can the NextLume Induction System be used for a flashing beacon?
Yes! With the new IC technology generators constant “on” and “off” usage will have no impact on the life of the system.
Will the NextLume Induction System fade or damage materials?
The amount of ultraviolet light generated by induction is roughly equivalent to that of linear fluorescent lamps. The damage factor for materials is rated as a low 0.3 factor, so induction can be used in open luminaries without any front glass
Is NextLume Induction Systems vibration-resistant?
Yes! The fact NextLume Induction Systems have no electrodes, which makes it more reliable in high-vibration and gusty applications. NextLume Induction Systems have proven durability in bridges, tunnels and signage applications.
What if any, is the effect of voltage supply fluctuations on the performance of the NextLume Induction System?
Due to a pre-built conditioner in the HF Generator, which provides a well stabilized internal supply voltage (+/- 15% of the supply voltage) to the HF Generator, the light output , consume power and systems efficacy of the lamp systems varies less than 1% as a result to mains voltage fluctuations. There is no noticeable effect on the color performance or rendering outputs.
At the end of life, must all components be replaced?
Each item is separately replaceable, however since we supply everything as a system, even for re-lamping, the IC ballast is recommended to be replaced as well.
What needs to be recycled as hazardous waste?
Like it’s fluorescent cousin, the lamps and ballast should be recycled. But with a 5-10 times longer life, recycling costs will be greatly reduced.
Why are the NextLume systems worth more?
The NextLume induction system offers 5 to 10 times more life than Fluorescent and HID systems. Even at the two to three times the cost of these systems it easy to justify due to its high RETURN ON INVESTMENT in maintenance savings and, in the case of security lighting, reduction of liability.
For any other questions feel free to contact us at support@onestopgreen.com