Robert Flores, [senior scientist in the Advanced Power & Energy Program], a solar expert at the University of California, Irvine, said it’s smart to upgrade any old appliances before going solar. … Monocrystalline panels are generally considered the “best bang for your buck,” according to Flores. … Aso consider space … “The worst place would be to install on north-facing roofs, especially if those roofs have a high pitch.” For example, if the only place you can install is a north-facing roof with a 30-degree pitch, your cost of going solar will increase by 30% to 40%.

[UCI] scientists analysed the beetle's elytron – a hardened set of forewings that protect the more delicate hindwings underneath – to learn more about the miraculous material. … Using advanced microscopy, spectroscopy and mechanical testing, the authors observed a series of interlocked jigsaw-shaped joints at the middle of the elytra. Read More