I finally have the opportunity to build. I have just purchased two buildings in Bangkok (Of all places) and am interested in being creative. I know that i can purchase solar panels etc, but i am curious if there is any new technology out there that i can incorporate into my building with out me purchasing expensive and costly equipment?
Does anyone know how i can make electricity…?
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The cheaper way to go MAY be to prevent energy from being wasted. See what you can do with motion sensing lights, insulation (keep that AC in!), maybe a green roof to keep the heat down, tinted windows, etc…
Beyond that, solar cells get more expensive. What about wind turbines? Is it windy in Bangkok???
I don’t know the size or scope of your buildings, but the use of shade, reflective (white) roof and insulation helps in the minimizing of power. Use solar absorption panels for hot water, but they need backup in the rainy season. Solar voltaic panels are relatively expensive and provide a relatively small amount of power that needs backup. Solar absorption panels may also be used for Air Conditioning directly, and this could be meaningful. You will need consultancy for any of these projects as they are relatively expensive, and there are definite limitations. Wind generators of any significance seem unlikely in the middle of a huge city. Even the systems mentioned (including a white roof) may be limited by local regulations as well.
Finally, if you just need to increase the power provided in the building the most common solution is a diesel generator. However the running costs are high. Consider 0.55 pounds of fuel per horse power per hour, or something like 0.36 liters per KWh. One other practical system used for building power supply is fuel cells, and these are less likely to cause noise and exhaust fumes.
Solar Panels are the famous way to go. They work, they are classy, and they will annoy a passerby. A three in one Package.
There is also wind energy. It depends on the size and area of your buildings. If it has enough room to build a windmill, go for it.
If you want it to be effective, just use normal electricity or Solar Panels.
You may also want to add in energy saving lights and water things. Motion Sensing lights are one possibilty. They turn on when you enter, and turn off when you leave. Automatic sinks are water savers. Now they even have automatic Soap depensers, but lets not get off topic. You can add automatic toilets too.
The Ideas are endless, and much more vast then the small minds of Yahoo answers. Ask around, ask professionals in Green and electricity. Have fun with the buildings, and mostly, good luck.
@Ecko, you mentioned white roof. What does it have to do with it?