What My Friends Think of Solar Power

I am blessed, as I think most of you are, with great friends who have great minds that both support and challenge me. As for solar power, perhaps the best way to summarize what my friends think of it is to note how much I talk about it. Now I don’t mean that I run down the street wearing a “Solar Power is Coming!” sandwich-board sign. I refer to how often I am asked about solar energy.

And it’s not just my friends. Nearly every day I am engaged by friends and strangers who are eager for more information about solar power and the entire range of renewable energy options. Many see it as an alternative to fossil fuels. Many see solar power as common sense.

But even more still see solar power as a dream…a possibility…a “someday” option. This is unfortunate, but largely true. The affordability of solar power – which is a concrete possibility for free energy – is still the predominate issue in the industry and among consumers. Many of my friends are renters. Some are homeowners. Most are surprised by how affordable solar is actually becoming.

Thanks to the extension and revision of federal solar tax rebates, 2009 promises to be a big year for the solar industry. This provided the economy holds out. Still, as I explain the promise of a 30% tax credit from the feds and many aggressive state rebate and incentive programs, I hear a lot of exclamations like “Wow” and “Really?” And now, more and more, my friends are coming to me to discuss solar power, not just ask about it.

In other words, they are moving beyond thinking about it and into acting on it. And that’s what I encourage them – and you – to do. Research solar energy in your area. If it’s not yet affordable for you or other homeowners in your area, then call and encourage your local, state and federal governments to do more. Most want affordable, customer-distributed, rooftop solar power systems.

It’s not just solar power either. Renewable resources have a wide variety of applications. Clean energy has a wide variety of sources and all deserve a fair chance.

Oh, and when my friends are ready, I always encourage contact with local solar contractors. The sun will be up tomorrow. Why not harness its warm, friendly, and clean power today?

Posted on November 6th in Going Solar by Dan.