It’s rather surprising how drastically each state varies in solar incentive programs. Some, like California and New York, are very progressive, constantly initiating new incentive programs and resources. Others, like Alabama and Ohio, are still quite oblivious to the issue, and hardly have any incentives at all. Hawaii is one of those more progressive states, but some might argue that it’s gone a bit too far.

Lots of Solar Support

Just this summer, Hawaii became the first state to make solar thermal water heaters mandatory in all new homes built after January, 2010. The state is already quite supportive of solar systems, offering residents a 35% state income tax credit. This, in combination with the federal incentive of $2,000 and another $1,000 offered by utility companies, has led to the installation of 80,000 solar water heaters in about 25% of the homes on the islands. Hawaii must import most of its energy, one reason why it’s so important for the state to find alternative energy sources. (more…)

Historic buildings are loved, admired, and critiqued based upon their originality. As you stroll through the historical district of a city, you admire the beauty and majesty of the old-fashioned architecture. Whether it is the delicate trims or stately columns, old buildings are nostalgic and draw on our sentimental sides. Furthermore, unlike the many manufactured products that make up new home construction, these buildings are full of natural products from wood to various stones. With all of this classic beauty, it is easy to understand why some may object to placing solar panels on the roof. Although you can’t get much more natural than solar energy, the panels do tend to represent more of a modern contemporary appearance than a historical one.

Naturally, this topic draws a lot of debate and differing opinions. Most environmentalists and conservationists welcome more energy efficient fuel sources, but also appreciate the irreplaceable historical appeal of old buildings. They argue that there is almost always a way to disguise or hide the panels somewhere on the building – on a back roof, or high enough to not be noticed. (more…)

Ever hear the expression “hot as asphalt”? It is a well-known fact that black asphalt absorbs the sun’s rays; well what if there was a practical way to harvest that heat and transfer it into usable energy? Is it possible? Just imagine the possibilities with so many millions of miles of asphalt throughout this country!

Researchers in Massachusetts are developing a method to accomplish this. As they point out, all of those roads and parking lots are simply large solar collectors; and there must be some way to harness, store and transfer all of that heat into usable energy. Although they don’t yet have a workable plan of action, they propose installing a network of heat exchangers into the roads (this could be a major undertaking) and then using water pipes to transport the heat. (more…)