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An expanded Web version of segments seen on CNN Solar restaurant serves up energy savings
January 8, 1998
Web posted at: 8:44 a.m. EST (1344 GMT)From Correspondent Ann Kellan
SALISBURY, North Carolina (CNN) -- If you think your home-heating costs are high, try running a restaurant.
The hot water and electricity that restaurants use to keep their customers comfortable and dishes clean can add up to some amazing utility bills.
The operators of one restaurant in Salisbury have found they can save money and help the environment by using the sun's energy to generate power and heat water. The system combines existing solar technology into a new package to do two jobs.
CNN's Ann Kellan reports
1 min. 45 sec. VXtreme video
Using solar energy to heat water and generate electricity
960K/18 sec./160x120
QuickTime movieMichael Nicklas, president of Innovative Design, says the idea of merging the two technologies into one product is unique. (
65K/6 sec. AIFF or WAV sound)
The solar panels collect sunlight and convert some of it into electricity to be used at peak hours or if there's a power outage. At the same time, heat builds up behind the panels.
The collected heat is used to preheat the restaurant's water, and components on the electrical side can provide power.(
Part of the water-heating system The solar system was built into the greenhouse section of the Applebee's restaurant as it was constructed. Its solar panels aren't attached to the roof -- they are the roof.
This approach saves money, since it's more expensive to build a full roof and then add the panels later.(
The system is nonpolluting and designers say it pays for itself within a few years, partly because both North Carolina and the federal government offer tax credits for solar technology.
Designers believe a home version of the system could provide even more savings, since houses use less electricity and hot water than restaurants.
Officials with the Applebee's chain will watch how well the system works in Salisbury before deciding whether to use the technology in future restaurants.
Related sites:
Note: Pages will open in a new browser window
- American Solar Energy Society - dedicated to advancing solar energy technologies.
- Index - Solar Energy Resources - design of solar energy systems and links to other information.
External sites are not endorsed by CNN Interactive.
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