Solar Energy

Solar Energy Solar energy is by far the most widely used alternative energy source. With the increased production of solar cells and panels the prices have dropped by more than a third and will continue to do so unless politicians change the course. This article by a Wall Street journalist highlights some of the benefits that are evident.



 June 18, 2012 THE JOURNAL REPORT: INNOVATIONS IN ENERGY The Enlightened Classroom School districts are using solar power to cut their energy bills—and cope with budget cuts By JIM CARLTON Solar power has long been touted for its environmental impact. But now it has a new role: saving teachers' jobs. More in Innovations in Energy School districts across the country are turning to solar power to cut their electricity costs. With the money they're saving, they are able to retain more teachers and programs in the face of budget cuts. As a bonus, some schools are using solar installations to teach kids about renewable energy. More than 500 K-12 schools in 43 states have installed solar panels, many of them over the past three years as solar-power costs have fallen by more than one-third, according to estimates by the Solar Energy Industries Association, a trade group in Washington, D.C., and GTM Research, a Greentech Media Inc. unit in Boston. "It really is one of the fastest-growing markets and probably will have the most impact in our society, because it will put money back into more teachers and expand education," says Rhone Resch, president and chief executive officer of the Solar Energy Industries Association.

 More at:http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303674004577433930635426386.html

 Solar energy is a valuable alternative to grid-tied electricity and is becoming more attractive as prices decrease. Check out your local area for prices and installation.