Mini Panels on the roof for lights , computer

[greenzone100]

I once saw a video on youtube or somewhere where someone had a very small panel on their roof and they hooked it up to their bedroom and it ran everything in their , computer, lights, and I believe a power hungry air conditioner. Anyone know where you can find out more about smaller projects like this? Any conversation appreciated.

[geodome]

There's loads of stuff on the web about solar panel projects, my advice would be to start with a small experimental system to find your feet. I started with a 1.5watt panel and a 12v alarm battery. I used it to charge my mobile phone, PDA and LED torch. I learned loads about getting the most from solar power, most people overestimate how much power their system will produce, it's much better to run 12v stuff rather than 240v through an inverter because the inverter uses around 20% of your hard earned electric to convert the voltage.

[spadlet]

If you are living in the UK there are various centres that demonstrate and promote small scale renewable technology use. For example:

http://www.syec.co.uk/ - South Yorkshire Energy Centre is a refurbishment of what used to be an end terrace. I'm pretty sure they have a little solar pannel.

http://www.alternativetechnology.org.uk/ - The Alternative Technology Centre in Hebden Bridge promotes projects for members of the public.

http://www.cse.org.uk/cgi-bin/page.cgi?7 - The Centre for Sustainable Energy in Bristol covers the South West of England.

The websites may not be that useful, but they've all got connections with small scale projects, or know people that have. It might be worth emailing them or going to visit if you live nearby.