solar pannels

Yes, solar panels are expensive, but I disagree with your statement that they do very little. Solar technology is advancing every day, and it is no longer a fantasy that homes will be powered by the sun in the near future (at least in warmer climes).

Also I think (or at least I hope) that government programs will continue to mitigate the cost of solar with tax incentives. I've also seen programs, both public and private, that provide loans to purchase home solar panels. If the home is in a suitable location for solar power, these loans tend to be low risk because they can be funded each month with the money that would have gone to the electric company.

an even better option for solar panels saves the up-front cost. RENT THEM!

http://renu.citizenre.com/

These folks know their stuff.

visit sharp's calculator to figure your solar panel cost and out-put

http://sharpusa.cleanpowerestimator.com/sharpusa.htm

Their system seems surprisingly affordable. It even helps you calculate paying for panels with a home equity loan.

Yes, solar panels are not as energy efficient as say wind or hydro power, but they are certainly the right things to do. I will also say that solar hot water is more efficient than solar PV. That said, why is cost a stumbling block? When you bought your last pair of shoes was cost the only consideration? When you bought your last car, did you buy the most economically efficient model? I think most of us would answer probably not. So why use this criteria as the sole analysis device with solar panels? Think with you heart a little bit and do something good for the planet and yourself!

Bob Ferris
Executive Director
Yestermorrow Design/Build School