I just finished reading several posts saying solar
electricity isn't practical. In every case the main
argument was cost. This seems to be the opinion of most
people and is easy to understand. The components are
definitely expensive and appear confusing.
The exact opposite viewpoint can be found around here and in
the pages of HomePower magazine. I find utility power is way
too costly and small scale solar power much less confusing.
It all depends upon what criteria one uses to determine cost
and complexity.
>From an ecology standpoint the harvesting of local energy is
much better than building massive power lines and generating
plants. The fossil fuels impact on our environment is now
accepted by all but a few. It is clear that we are in the
process of global climate change and the cost impacts could
be huge.
The complexity of local electricity systems is probably less
than the car most people drive around. In fact a car has
many of the same components. The big issues with solar
electricity is that it is unfamiliar and is not packaged
conveniently like a car. The array of options is large and one
can mix utility power with solar power.
For the vast majority of people it is possible to combine
solar with utility power and add in a little conservation of
energy. The net result can be a cost savings. So.. the
only issues i see are: convenience, utility barriers, and
awareness of ecological costs.
The utilities are making it difficult to combine solar and
grid power in most areas. The technology is available and so
simple any child can install it. All we have to do is put up
the panels and plug them into the wall socket. That's it.
The conservation issue is even simpler. Our appliances
waste vast amounts of energy. Switching to efficient
lighting, refrigerators, motors, and low tech tools could cut
the average electricity bill in half. How can we complain
about the cost of solar electricity and not consider
conservation? Simple, the issue here isn't cost, it is much
more complicated and is cultural.
jeff
