I have Solar Panel Envy...

I have Solar Panel envy.

I remember back in the 70s when Solar Panels first started popping up in Reston, VA.  The community was fairly liberal  at the time, so I expect that there were a fair number of political statements being made with this early technology. There was, in fact, an entire neighborhood was built in the 80's,Solaridge , that incorporated solar technology. Even in a community that embraced the idea of recycling and energy conservation, the Solar Panel did not catch on in any sort of definitive way. The next community built in Reston by the builder of Solaridge, used the same floor plans, but left out the solar technology.

Fast forward 40 years and solar technology has not developed the following that might be expected. To be sure, there are plenty of people who have firmly embraced the technology. There are many more who would be interested, but don't want to undertake the time and expense to convert their homes. Particularly in the Washington, D.C. area where many folks are somewhat transient, the initial capital outlay to install and retrofit the current system can be a deterrent. Because any investment takes time to recoup, most who undertake this kind of project intend to stay put to reap the benefits.

As with any technology, as the science improves and the technology becomes more widely accepted, the costs go down.  Still, there seems to be a general reluctance on the part of many homeowners to step up and add solar panels to their home.

Personally, I would love to have solar panels.  Why don't I? The initial cost and the process to install are the main objections. If I were to build a house from scratch, I would definitely consider including Solar Panel technology in my plans.

The White House has recently announced that they will be adding Solar Panels to the White house, see Solar Panels at White House give a boost to alternative energy options

It makes you wonder if this is being done as part of a comprehensive plan or more as a symbolic gesture. As far as I know, and I watch this kind of thing pretty closely, there has been no reported Energy Audit done to the White House.  Personally, I applaud the effort either way, but as a homeowner who has to watch my investment dollars, I would advocate an Energy Audit as the first step in the process.

After all, as the author of the article referenced above, Solar Panels at White House give a boost to alternative energy options, Brain Palmer, quotes Brian Uher of Amicus Consulting Services as saying, "Installing solar panels turns your drafty, uncomfortable house into a slightly cheaper, drafty, uncomfortable house.'

If you live in the D.C. metro area, this is a great time to schedule a whole house Energy Audit. Ardently Green serves Virginia, D.C. and Maryland and can provide you with a cost effective plan to make your house more comfortable this winter.

Just know that if your plan includes Solar Panels, I will be very envious!