Source: Energy Information Administration
According to the US Energy Information Administration’s latest forecast, the US is about to head into a period of increased consumption of non-hydro renewable energy sources – solar and wind power being two of the most highly recognized, renewable, sustainable sources of energy.
It is, however, painfully obvious by looking at the lines on this graph that the US has a long ways to go in using more of these renewable energy sources than the more environmentally damaging and non-sustainable sources such as fossil fuels. Why is it taking so long to take advantage of the sun and the wind for solar power energy production when they can be so beneficial to our planet, our homes, and our finances?
Because, as is often the case, “the good stuff don’t come cheap”.
That’s right – those “free” sources of energy actually cost more than the environmentally filthy regular fuel we use to churn our appliances and electronics. Money talks, and consumers follow.
Check out this solar calculator: http://www.findsolar.com/index.php?page=rightforme
Enter your zip code, the percent of solar electricity you want to replace in your home, and your current average kWh usage from your last electric bill. Press GO and find out what a professional installation of such a home solar panel system will cost you LESS the energy credit.
For a home using 2000 kWh per month wanting to replace 100% of their current electricity with solar powered energy – it would cost $72,450.22. (I love the 22 cents!). Better yet, the break even point (found under Savings in the calculator) is just a hair under 20 years.
So – who is going to pay $72,000 and not really see free electricity for another 20 years?
How then, is it expected that solar energy consumption, among other renewable sources, is expected to rise in the US? Mostly through commercial and utility installations. Until the cost of professional solar panels and installation comes down, solar energy power for homes isn’t going to become attainable for most homeowners unless they’re handy enough to build their own solar panels.
