Renewable Energy Alternatives | University of Maryland Extension

Updated: January 31, 2024

Working on Solar Wiring and Fusing (EB-2023-0676)

This publication explores some of the essential considerations for wiring a solar PV system, including important requirements for voltage, ampacity, voltage drop, and circuit length. Safely size wires and overcurrent protection devices for proper system design. Author: Drew Schiavone, Ph.D., Title: "Working on Solar Wiring and Fusing" (EB-2023-0676)

Updated: December 7, 2023

Solar Grounding

This resource is part of the Solar-Clips series which explores various tips and tools for working with solar photovoltaics. An overview is given on the safe and effective grounding of solar electric systems. You will gain an understanding of the basic function and purpose of a grounding system by reviewing this resource.

Updated: September 1, 2023

Solar Inverter

This resource is part of the Solar-Clips series which explores various tips and tools for working with solar photovoltaics. An overview is given on the function and integration of an inverters for solar electric systems. By reviewing this resource, you will be able to select, size, and install an inverter for a solar electric system.

Updated: September 1, 2023

Battery Backup

This resource is part of the Solar-Clips series which explores various tips and tools for working with solar photovoltaics. An overview is given on integrating battery backup for a solar electric system. By reviewing this resource, you will be able to size, design, and install a battery backup system.

Updated: September 1, 2023

Solar Array

This resource is part of the Solar-Clips series which explores various tips and tools for working with solar photovoltaics. An overview is given on connecting solar panels in series and parallel to form a solar array. By reviewing this resource, you will be able to design and connect solar panels to form a solar array that meets your voltage, current, and power requirements.

Updated: September 1, 2023

Solar Module Guide

This resource is part of the Solar-Clips series which explores various tips and tools for working with solar photovoltaics. An overview is given on how to assess solar module output using multimeters, as well as how the tilt, orientation and shading of a solar module effects its output. By reviewing this resource, you will be able to assess the voltage, current, and power of a solar module, as well as, provide proper siting and orientation for solar modules to achieve optimal performance.

Updated: June 28, 2023

Working on Solar Panels and Power Output (FS-2022-0646)

This fact sheet demonstrates how the average consumer, with a simple set of tools, can calculate the real-world capabilities of a solar panel. These skills are particularly important when identifying a defective solar panel and/or confirming the output of a solar panel when its output parameters are unknown. Author: Drew Schiavone, Ph.D.; Title: Working on Solar Panels and Power Output (FS-2022-0646)

Updated: January 20, 2023

Solar Panels are an Increasingly Common Sight on Urban and Rural Properties Across Maryland (EB-455)

In this report, we explore the historical trends, current status, and potential growth of Maryland’s solar photovoltaic (PV) market in terms of market share, use sectors, and current investments. Author, Drew Schiavone. Title: Solar Panels are an Increasingly Common Sight on Urban and Rural Properties Across Maryland (EB-455)

Updated: August 22, 2022

Branching Out - Spring 2017

Twenty-five years of "Branching Out" - read how it all started. Plus, read our "Woodland Wildlife Spotlight" and "Invasives in Your Woodland," and take the Brain Tickler challenge. This and much more inside this issue.

Callery Pear flowers. Photo by Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org

Updated: April 28, 2022

Manure as a Natural Resource: Alternative Management Opportunities (EB-420)

A new publication (EB-420) is available from University of Maryland Extension. Manure as a Natural Resource: Alternative Management Opportunities is written as an overview of some existing technologies. Many new ideas are proposed for the region, and understanding the science behind them is imperative to deciding which option you may want to follow. Manure, as a source of organic matter and plant nutrients, is an excellent conditioner for soils. It is a component of agronomic production, cycling nutrients between soils, plants and livestock. However, in areas where limited land is available for application, excess soil nutrients can lead to water quality issues. Local restrictions on manure application necessitate finding alternative uses. The simplest method is to transport manure to nutrient-deficient land. Manure can be composted into a higher-quality fertilizer or have the nutrients extracted and sold separately. Manure also has an energy value, and where feasible, anaerobic digestion, pyrolysis, or gasification could be options.