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Jacob Arroyos

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Using solar electricity more efficiently and effectively.

Living in Arizona, we have an abundent resource of sun. It shines down on us over 300 days a year, and for some reason companies still don't offer solar power at a price that is fair to their customers. I understand that solar panels are fairly expensive, but there has to be a way companies and the government could find the funds for sustainable electricity.

An idea that I have thought about is having apartments install solar panels on their property. Instead of having the electricity bill vary from month to month, the apartment complex will figure our the monthly price for each size of apartment (1 bed, 2 bed, etc.) and then just include that into their bill for their monthly rent (just like they do fro trash and sewer). I believe this is a great idea for complexes to take advantage of and could potentially provide a profit after a few years.

Topics: technology
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    edward long 100+

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    Nov 19 2012: Until new methods become as profitable or more profitable than current energy production and distribution systems they will remain secondary, alternate, comparatively costly methods. I am not saying solar cannot become our primary energy sytem, I am saying it is more costly than present technology. It's a tough sell to get someone to pay more for the same thing. Today's apartment designers and builders can increase their profits by using traditional, non-solar electrical systems. Convincing them to do otherwise is impossible. Follow the money. Thank you!

    • John Smith 30+

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      Nov 19 2012: "Until new methods become as profitable or more profitable than current energy production and distribution systems they will remain secondary, alternate, comparatively costly methods."

      Even when using the existing distribution system (hook your installation up to the grid and letthe utility company buy back your excess power) in sunny Arizona and even when you factor in all the tax cuts and subsidies fossil fuels and nuclear power receive? I sincerely doubt that.
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        edward long 100+

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        Nov 19 2012: You think there is some nefarious government plot keeping the world from enjoying cheaper, cleaner, infinitely more sustainable, and profoundly more environmentally friendly energy than what we are doing now? What possible motive could there be for government to hold-off on full-scale development of such a "perfect" scenario? I say there is only one answer to that question and it is Economic Inertia. When we have to go solar we will, but right now everything is running smoothly, lots of money is being made, and lots of taxes are being paid with no need to spend trillions reconfiguring the system. Follow the money!

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