The Future of Free Energy is here now!

Speelgoedmannetje said:
Meanwhile in China, as the government there isn't controlled by the oil industry, but by themselves, the energy consumption relies less and less on oil, and their economy is getting up and up.
As for 2007, 17% of China's energy consumption comes from renewable energy
They don't want to be so dependent on foreign (like Russian or Arab) supplies.
I really think you should be more patriotic. I mean it.
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metalman said:
Solar is only economically practical for remote locations (10 mi off grid) used with wind and diesel generators
or where only small amounts of power is needed and trenching is required to bring in power

For an on-grid home, solar panels are just buying indulgences from the church of the Gaia.
It makes much more economic sense to upgrade the efficiency of your appliances, install a solar hot water heater or install a water loop heat pump, increase your attic insulation, install a radiant barrier, all of which have a payback of 7 years or less.
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I have to respectfully disagree. If I had the money up front, I'd install an on-grid solar and would have a payback in 10-15 years (depending on any state or federal rebates). Of course, I live in Florida where we get a ton of sun. Off-grid is the dream, I hate my electrical utility, but battery technology is not there.

-edit-
I should also point out there are hidden benefits to installing solar in South Florida. Cooling costs are by far the biggest contributor to my electric bills. Mounting solar panels on our roof would create shade and reduce the thermal load to my home, thus reducing cooling costs. This would have a very real effect. The lifespan of my shingles would go up too.
 
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