Booming Residential Solar in U.S.
Solar was long neglected by the government as a source of electricity due to its high cost and unsustainability. But for the last few years solar energy has gradually made for itself a name in the US power economy. Partially, we can blame it to climate change. Because of this serious matter, people across the globe organize various campaigns to shift into using renewable energy rather than non-renewable ones, which could only negatively affect the environment. But the worsening scenario in climate and environment is not the only reason why solar has dramatically boomed in US residences. Solar prices declined and now, it has become the cheapest substitute available to the consumers.
According to the latest report from Solar Energy Industry Association (SEIA), in the first quarter of the current year 74% of new electric generating capacity in the country came from solar. The Solar Market Insights Report for Q1 2014 further highlighted that since 2011, the average price of solar panel has dropped 60%. Compared to the same period of last year, the commercial solar costs also fell by 5.7%. Furthermore, the report stated that concentrating solar power (CSP) has become huge in the first quarter, and this year 2014 is anticipated to become the biggest year ever for this solar technology.
Just recently, Solar4America, announced that it is now offering electricity at under six cents per kilowatt hour. This is the lowest fixed price that is currently available to consumers nationwide. This campaign has been launched in Arizona and California. Additionally, it will be launched in Texas this October and in the first quarter of 2015, four states will also follow.
Solar4America’s CEO and founder, Jim Petersen, said, “Solar4America markets and sells American made solar energy systems to consumers at a rate that is so low that the net price over 30 years, with all of the tax rebates, yields a kilowatt hour rate at under seven cents in California and much lower in other states.” The campaign resulted to 1,000 new customers in Arizona that can enjoy the fixed rate of five cents for 30 years.
Going solar offers both cost-efficiency and environmental sense. When compared to other power generation sources, solar provides benefits of lesser pollution and cleaner environment. SEIA President and CEO Phone Resch said, “Solar is also providing a big boost for our environment. The 14,800 megawatts of solar currently installed in the U.S. can generate enough pollution-free electricity to displace 18 billion pounds of coal or 1.8 billion gallons of gasoline. That’s the equivalent of removing 3.5 million passenger cars off our roads and highways. For states trying to meet new, enhanced air quality standards, solar can be a real game changer.”
More positive news on solar energy indicates its healthy growth projections. These encourage not only residential owners but also commercial, municipal and industrial building consumers to embrace solar energy and look forward to more developments on solar projects.
