clipped from: online.wsj.com   

Let the Sunshine In


Sick of high energy bills, our columnist investigates solar options
July 19, 2008; Page W10

This month, I've spent hours tramping across my roof with energy experts. We've measured its pitch, calculated how closely it faces true south and used high-tech tools to determine what times of day and which months the rooftop will be shaded.


The goal: to figure out how much the sun's free power can offset my home's hot-water and other energy needs.


[Go to enlarged image]

Powered by the Sun: Here's how a typical "closed-loop" solar thermal system for cold climates heats household water.