The fact is that one of the most prohibitive aspects of alternative energy sources is cost. We see it every day. Whether it's buying a hybrid car, installing a more energy-efficient furnace, or harnessing solar energy for use in our homes, there is little doubt that many of us simply have "better things to do" with our money, especially in economic times like these. So I looked around trying to answer the question "How are other people doing it?".
One answer is the concept of what I call solar communities. It is where communities "pitch in" towards the purchase of solar panels & associated equipment, as well as attending workshops together. In doing so, these communities take advantage of their collective buying power to negotiate bulk discounts from suppliers, as well as getting group discounts from the installers. It's a good deal all the way around. If you Google the phrase "solarize salem" or click here, you will find the site of one such group in Salem, Oregon. Last I checked, I think they had about 40 homes signed up so far, with room for 60 more. Pretty cool, huh? And it appears to be spreading to other similar efforts across the state. If you think others in your community would be interested in something like this, I would contact these good folks and get some pointers!
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Related Links:
For info on making your own solar panels, click here.
Solarize Salem - solarizesalem.org
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