The solar panels on the roof…

The solar panels on the roof of our house supply as much electricity as we consume in the house and for our electric hybrid car, a Volt.  With sufficient battery storage we could be independent of the power grid.  However, as it is, we provide carbon-free power primarily at peak demand time.

We are only seen, however, as contributors to higher power charges in spite of the fact over the 20 year contract we will cost the government and thus society no more than if we had invested the same amount of money in Provincial savings bonds.  The win-win of course is there is slightly less pollution, including carbon, due to our panels.

This highlights the real need - education/information programs to make the populace aware of the realities of climate change and the potential contribution of technologies like solar panels and wind to mitigate those changes.  The populace must also be made aware of the underlying factors that will modify our day to day lives as our society weans off oil and oil-based products from perfumes and beauty treatments to plastics and various consumed products.  There is a need for people to understand these changes will occur whether we accept them or not and by taking action the effects on our lives can be minimised.

[Original Comment ID: 205207]