Solar energy used to be considered the energy source of choice for the tree hugging, granola eating set. Since then the cost of fossil fuels has skyrocketed and virtually every major power supply conglomerate has raised the rates of supplying the public with electricity and other sources of energy.

Suddenly, solar energy is not looking so bad anymore and with the help of public pressure, solar energy investment trends now encompass the spending of not only the private investor by also the governmental backer.

I came across this and thought it was a rather unusual application of solar power.

Check out this short video about this innovative solar powered laundromat in Chicago.

A solar powered laundromat puts a new spin on cleaning up the planet.

This green solar powered laundromat is not only cost efficient, but eco-friendly as well.

Solar water heating is an important area for renewable energy development. Heating water is one of the basic needs in our everyday life. Solar hot water systems can be used to heat swimming pools and to provide hot water in homes and industry. You are strongly urged to design your own models by using the one given below as an example.

The procedure described above for building a solar cooker is also very similar for solar water heating. Instead of cooking food, you can heat water. The only additional material required is a large zip-lock bag filled with one gallon of water and laid flat in the bottom of the box.

Solar lighting is becoming increasingly common in landscaping across the country. There’s no reason not to take advantage of natural solar energy when lighting pathways, gardens, driveways, decks, porches, and pool areas.

Solar lighting is the safest and easiest kind of outdoor lighting to install. Each light fixture contains a scientifically design solar collector panel that converts daytime-sunlight into electrical energy. Solar lighting is now the choice for gardens, landscaping and lighting paths.

Accent solar lighting typically comes in sets of self-contained lights. Solar lighting is a great alternative to electric landscape lighting - you’ll save on your electricity bill, enjoy a very easy installation process, and help the environment at the same time.