The solar industry has taken off in the U.S in recent years, particularly in Massachusetts. There are many different solar companies helping the state become more environmentally friendly in terms of reducing emissions through the use of the clean energy. The problem is that many people are not aware of the benefits that solar could have for them. Many people see roofs across the state with solar panels and wonder if they would go well on their houses. However, it might just be a passing thought as they see it as too complicated or too expensive, without really knowing anything about the process.
Enter MyHelios. Helios was the Greek God of the sun. Our app allows anyone to see how much power they can generate from Helios, or the Sun. The app shows how users can take advantage of this clean energy source through Solar Voltaic and Solar thermal technologies. By simply entering your zip code and estimating the size of a system you would have on your roof (1 through 10 kilowatts, with information provided for accurate estimates) you can find all the information you need to decide if this solar system is right for you. The solar voltaic information consists of kilowatt-hours produced on a monthly and annual basis, the monetary value of the total kilowatt-hours, the pounds of CO2 emissions avoided, and time to return on investment.
The solar thermal side of the app takes into account the number of people living in your household, making an estimate on your hot water usage. It then calculates your monthly and annual savings from not paying for natural gas, and how many pounds of CO2 emissions are avoided.
The user might just begin using MyHelios for fun or out of curiosity, but once they realize how beneficial the solar technologies are, they become much more likely to purchase a system. It is also a valuable first tool for people who are legitimately considering getting a solar thermal or solar voltaic system installed and just need a little background on the way it all works.
MyHelios is a fun, interesting and effective way to market the different solar technologies to people who would otherwise be in the dark.
This project was idealized and implemented during the 2015 Boston Clean Web Hackathon.
For more detailed information, check our Android App that will have a demo today!