Beat the heat: How solar panels can cool your home cost-effectively

hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/art-culture/beat-the-heat-how-solar-panels-can-cool-your-home-costeffectively-101720251509576-amp.html

July 6, 2024

Scorching hot temperatures can be made bearable by switching on the air conditioning — which is energy intensive and costly. That's why installing eco-friendly solar panels could be key. Sweltering summer temperatures are increasingly common, especially in cities where closely packed buildings and paved surfaces trap heat. When temperatures climb above 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit), it can be a serious health hazard, especially for the elderly and sick.

Residents in South Korea installing solar panels beside their air conditioner.(YNA/dpa/picture alliance)

And while drawing curtains to block out the sun during the day and ventilating homes during the night when its cooler may help, many turn to power intensive air conditioning units. Fortunately, the sun itself can help us to stay cool. Given that the sun generally shines for extended periods during the summer, solar power is ideal for producing the large volumes of electricity needed to cheaply run air conditioning that help make extreme heat more bearable.

How many solar panels are needed to cool a home?

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This depends on the energy efficiency of the cooling system and the number of sunshine hours. But to given an example, for a well-insulated apartment of around 40 square meters (430 square feet), a small air conditioning unit requiring less than 1,000 watts would be enough.

A standard solar panel of around 2 square meters can generate up to 400 watts of electricity in direct sunlight, although on cloudy days it may only produce around 30% of that amount. But generally speaking for the small flat, electricity from three to four solar panels should be enough to run an air-con unit.

If, however, the home is poorly insulated or there are several devices such as computers running, it will heat up more and therefore require a bigger cooling system with higher power demands. In this case more solar panels could be installed.

How much does solar cost?

Solar energy has plummeted in price, with panels now costing only a tenth of what they did in 2005. In cities, they are often installed on rooftops or balconies. To run a small air conditioning system, a so-called balcony power station which has four panels (1,600 watts) and costs around €1,000 ($1,080) in Europe, is usually sufficient. The solar power is simply fed into the grid via a normal socket.

Larger roof systems — which are installed by professionals — are more expensive. For a system with 25 panels (10,000 watts), homeowners in Germany can expect to pay between €13,000 to €18,000. A solar panel of 400 watts which faces the midday sun generates roughly 400-800 kilowatt hours per year. With a service life of 30 years, this results in a solar power price of less than 10 euro cents per kilowatt hour (kWh), which is usually significantly cheaper than electricity from the grid.

Do they still work at night and during power cuts?

Cooler night temperatures often remove the need for cooling systems and the energy required to power them. But those who do want to use solar power at night will requires a battery unit. A battery with 5-10 kWh for roof solar panels currently costs between €3,000 and €8,000 in Germany, including the price of installation. Since solar energy is generally fed into the grid, a home unit is no safeguard against power cuts. Except with the addition of a special control system that comes with a price tag of at least €1,000.

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Impressive educational journey of Sunita Williams from India to NASA

timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/parenting/moments/impressive-educational-journey-of-sunita-williams-from-india-to-nasa/articleshow/111508124.cms

etimes.in / Updated: Jul 6, 2024, 09:50 IST

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Sunita Williams, Ohio-born astronaut on September 19, 1965 to Dr. Deepak Pandya, married Michael J Williams, logged 322 days in space. With degrees from trusted institutions, she piloted NASA's Starliner, facing a Boeing mission delay. Honored with awards including Padma Bhushan, she set a female spacewalk world record while conducting numerous ISS experiments.

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(Image: NASA)

Sunita Williams needs no introduction! The Indian origin woman is a distinguished astronaut born on September 19, 1965, in Ohio, USA. Sunita was born to Dr Deepak Pandya and Bonnie Pandya.

Sunita Williams has served in various space missions, notably as a flight engineer on the International Space Station (ISS), where she conducted numerous experiments and spacewalks.

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Her career spans over 322 days in space, making her one of NASA's most experienced astronauts.

The veteran of two space missions, Sunita Williams stepped into the world of space in 1998. "She is currently serving as the pilot of the Crew Flight Test mission aboard Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft – the first crewed flight for that vehicle – and her third mission aboard the International Space Station," NASA says.

Sunita Williams EducationSunita finished her high school education in 1983 from Needham High School, Needham, Massachusetts. Needham, Massachusetts, located southwest of Boston, is known for its suburban charm and vibrant community.

After this she obtained a graduate degree in Physical Science from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1987. In 1995, she obtained a Master of Science in Engineering Management, from the Florida Institute of Technology.

Her first journey to space was on December 9, 2006. Expedition 14/15, which happened from December 9, 2006 to June 22, 2007, Sunita Williams served as Flight Engineer. "While onboard, she established a world record for females with four spacewalks totaling 29 hours and 17 minutes," NASA says.

Her second space mission began on July 14, 2012 and Expedition 32/33 lasted till November 18, 2012. "Williams spent four months conducting research and exploration aboard the orbiting laboratory. She landed in Kazakhstan on November 18, 2012, after spending 127 days in space. During their Expedition, Williams and Hoshide performed three spacewalks to replace a component that relays power from the space station’s solar arrays to its systems, and repair an ammonia leak on a station radiator. With 50 hours and 40 minutes, Williams once again held the record for total cumulative spacewalk time by a female astronaut (has since been overtaken by Peggy Whitson with 10 spacewalks)," as per NASA.

On June 5, 2024 Sunita Williams went onboard on the Boeing Starliner. The mission was initially for one week but has now been extended as the Starliner experienced helium leaks, and because of this it remains docked at the International Space Station.

(Image: AFP)

She has received several awards recognizing her talent among which are Padma Bhushan, Honorary Doctorate from Gujarat Technological University, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Vishwa Pratibha Award.

Sunita is married to Michael J Williams, a federal marshal in Texas.

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Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, is poised to become the next Prime Minister of Britain after defeating Rishi Sunak. Learn about his background, education, and career as a human rights lawyer before entering politics.

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(Image: Reuters)

Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, is all set to become the next Prime Minister of Britain defeating Rishi Sunak. “The change begins right here, because this is your democracy, your community and your future. You have voted. It is now time for us to deliver,” he said, after being re-elected to his seat in north London.

Here are a few things to know about Keir Starmer as he is set to become the new prime minister of Britain.

Keir Rodney Starmer, born on September 2, 1962, grew up in a small house on the outskirts of London. Coming from a working-class background, he frequently emphasizes his parents' professions: his father as a toolmaker and his mother as a nurse.

His mother suffered from Still's disease, which is also known as Adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD). Adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) is a rare inflammatory condition characterized by high fevers, joint pain, rash, and systemic inflammation. Its exact cause is unknown, and it predominantly affects adults under 45. Treatment often involves medications to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms, but the disease's course can vary widely.

At school, he was classmates with musician Norman Cook, Andrew Cooper and journalist Andrew Sullivan.

He studied Law at the University of Leeds and graduated with first class in 1985. He was the first in his family to become a graduate.

He is a graduate from Oxford University with a Bachelor of Civil Law.

He has been issued with 6 honorary degrees from University of Essex, University of Leeds, University of East London, University of Reading, University of Worcester and London School of Economics.

As per reports, Keir Starmer is a pescatarian, which means his diet mostly comprises seafood.

Before joining politics, he was a human rights lawyer and public prosecutor where he oversaw high-profile cases in the likes of phone hacking scandals.

Swami Vivekananda, born on January 12, 1863, was a key figure in India's spiritual renaissance. He founded the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, emphasizing service, education, and spiritual upliftment. His 1893 address at the Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago highlighted universal tolerance, the unity of religions, and the importance of self-realization. Vivekananda's teachings, advocating for compassion, strength, and interfaith dialogue, continue to inspire all across the world. He passed away on July 4, 1902, and remains a revered spiritual leader.

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Swami Vivekananda, born on 12 January, 1863, was a profound spiritual leader and key figure in India's spiritual renaissance. His teachings emphasized the harmony of religions and the potential for self-realization. He founded the Ramakrishna Math and Mission to propagate his ideals of service, education, and spiritual upliftment. Vivekananda's philosophy inspired generations with his call to harness inner strength and work for the welfare of all.

He remains a revered figure for his vision of a harmonious, enlightened world.

Vivekananda's historic address at the Parliament of the World's Religions in 1893 introduced Vedanta philosophy to the West and promoted universal tolerance and unity.

On September 11, 1893 Swami Vivekananda delivered one of the most powerful speeches of all the time. The content of the speech delivered by him in Chicago at the first World’s Parliament of Religions remains germane to this day. The speech is one of the most talked about and referred to speeches worldwide.

Parents vs. Dreams? Sadhguru's advice on handling conflict

Before delivering the speech, Vivekananda bowed to Goddess Saraswati, the Hindu Goddess of Learning. Goddess Saraswati holds immense significance in Hinduism as the deity of knowledge, wisdom, arts, and learning.

Universal Tolerance: Swami Vivekananda emphasized the importance of tolerance and acceptance of all religions. He spoke against fanaticism and religious bigotry, advocating for a world where different faiths can coexist peacefully.

• Unity of religions: He highlighted the underlying unity of all religions, stating that different religions are merely various paths leading to the same ultimate truth.
• Respect for all beliefs: Vivekananda urged respect for all religious beliefs and practices, encouraging people to look beyond superficial differences and appreciate the common spiritual goals.
• Self-realization: He stressed the importance of self-realization and inner spiritual growth, urging individuals to seek truth and enlightenment within themselves.
• Compassion and service: Swami Vivekananda underscored the value of compassion and selfless service to humanity. He believed that serving others is a direct way to worship the divine.
• Strength and fearlessness: He encouraged people to cultivate strength, courage, and fearlessness in their pursuit of truth and righteousness.
• Spiritual unity of mankind: Vivekananda spoke about the spiritual unity of all human beings, transcending national, racial, and religious boundaries.
• Education for all: He advocated for the spread of education as a means to empower individuals and promote social and spiritual progress.
• Interfaith dialogue: Swami Vivekananda emphasized the importance of dialogue and understanding between different religious traditions to foster mutual respect and harmony.
• Inner peace and outer action: He taught that achieving inner peace through spiritual practices is essential, but it should be complemented by active efforts to improve society and help others.

Few more inspirational lines from his speech:

The present convention, which is one of the most august assemblies ever held, is in itself a vindication, a declaration to the world of the wonderful doctrine preached in the Gita: “Whosoever comes to Me, through whatsoever form, I reach him; all men are struggling through paths which in the end lead to me.”

“As the different streams having their sources in different places all mingle their water in the sea, so, O Lord, the different paths which men take through different tendencies, various though they appear, crooked or straight, all lead to Thee.”

"...I fervently hope that the bell that tolled this morning in honour of this convention may be the death-knell of all fanaticism, of all persecutions with the sword or with the pen, and of all uncharitable feelings between persons wending their way to the same goal."

Swami Vivekananda breathed his last on July 4, 1902. This year marks his 122nd death anniversary.

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The TOI Lifestyle Desk is a dynamic team of dedicated journalists who, with unwavering passion and commitment, sift through the pulse of the nation to curate a vibrant tapestry of lifestyle news for The Times of India readers. At the TOI Lifestyle Desk, we go beyond the obvious, delving into the extraordinary. Consider us your lifestyle companion, providing a daily dose of inspiration and information. Whether you're seeking the latest fashion trends, travel escapades, culinary delights, or wellness tips, the TOI Lifestyle Desk is your one-stop destination for an enriching lifestyle experience.

Visual Stories

A viral video sheds light on the challenges parents face with summer vacation homework. The video highlights the need for tasks that match students' abilities without parental intervention. With over 730K views, the discussion on the relevance of holiday homework continues among parents and educators.

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Every family looks forward to summer vacations. From spending time together to enjoying one whole month without following a particular routine, summer vacation is the perfect time to break monotony.

Summer vacation in India spans from late April to early June for schools, offering a much-needed break from academic routines. It coincides with the scorching heat, prompting families to seek cooler climates or coastal retreats.

Children eagerly anticipate this time for outdoor activities, travel, and cultural experiences. It's a period for relaxation, family bonding, and exploring India's diverse landscapes and heritage sites.

For families, it's a time to rejuvenate and create lasting memories, making summer vacation a cherished part of the Indian educational calendar.

However, summer vacation these days are no less than a nightmare for parents, especially those who send their kids to private schools.

Curious to know why?

A video is going viral on social media and this video is a testimony to the plight of all those parents who spent their entire summer vacation completing the holiday homework assigned to their kids.

In the video, the woman expresses her displeasure in the kind of homework teachers assign during holidays. "Many teachers assign homework and projects that require adult assistance, which can overwhelm children. It's crucial for teachers to assign tasks that match each student's ability, ensuring they can complete them independently, without parental intervention," she says in the video.

In the background we can see several homework projects being done.

The video was shared on social media platform X.com on June 30 and has more than 730K views.

Parents vs. Dreams? Sadhguru's advice on handling conflict

"Parents are a child’s first teacher- holiday homework is given so that parents and children can come and learn together. I believe schools can do a better job of communicating the same to parents and students so that they understand the rationale also relevance of the work given can be discussed during the same dialogue. I believe most of the schools are missing out on this important step," writes one user on X.com. "Pointless assignments which doesn’t add anything to a students learning," writes another.