Alternative energy. What are your thoughts?

[ghoulslime]

nkb wrote

GS,
Since you're in the business, maybe you can lend some insight.

I've been toying with the idea of getting solar cells on my house, for all the obvious reasons.
While looking around on the web, I noticed that most companies offer solar roof shingles, along with the old-style panels. How efficient are those (or is that what you're talking about)?

None of the websites gave me a clear understanding of what the cost and efficiency for these shingles was.

I wish I had known about these a few years ago, when I had all my shingles replaced due to hail damage. I probably would have ponied up the extra money to get solar.

If you want to get some solar power equipment for the nobility of it, then I’d say go for it. The industry could use support. But at this point, solar power is not quite profitable. I think if you take it very cautiously, solar power is at the break even point financially. The best solar panels don’t go to the consumers. Most of the stuff on the market seems over-priced and not very efficient. About a 20-25% conversion ratio is the point where this technology starts to pay off. Right now, the best stuff is just over 20%. Most of the shit they sell to consumers is probably 8-14%, regardless of what they claim.

If you can afford it, I’d get one solar panel, hook it up, and start playing with it. As far as shingling your house with them…I’d hold off a bit longer. Another 5 years or so and we will be there.