| The debate on the use of solar energy advantages is | | | | form of incentives to award this form of pro activity. |
| intensifying as the dangers of traditional energy | | | | As far as the pros are concerned let us consider the |
| sources are exposed on a daily basis. There are | | | | following facts: |
| however two main factors to consider when it comes | | | | - No drastic steps are needed initially. You can start |
| to making a choice on the sustainability of the | | | | with solar powered products. |
| "green"alternative and it all boils down to emotions and | | | | - The only raw material required is the sun which of |
| economics. | | | | course is free and generally in abundance. |
| The unfortunate BP Gulf disaster has stirred up a lot | | | | - Costs will keep on coming down as technology |
| of emotions around the issue of the dangers and | | | | matures and improves and rebates and incentives |
| long-term effects of fossil fuels on the environment. It | | | | start kicking in. |
| would however be dangerous to make important | | | | - Sunlight is an inexhaustible source. |
| long-term decisions based on emotional grounds only. | | | | - Solar power is clean, efficient and maintenance is low |
| The old adage of "count to ten first "not only applies in | | | | mainly because there are no moving parts. |
| our day to day experiences but also when it comes to | | | | - You can start small by electrifying certain aspects of |
| decision making of this nature. | | | | your home like your hot water system first. This |
| It would thus be wise to do a little research on the | | | | system is traditionally one of the biggest consumers of |
| economic impact the use of renewable solar energy | | | | electricity in our homes. |
| would have on your life on short, medium and | | | | - Installation of solar energy has become a very |
| long-term basis. Let us start by drawing up a solar | | | | popular and relatively inexpensive DIY project in many |
| energy pro and con list and as they say in the classics, | | | | homes. |
| let us start with the bad news first: | | | | You do not have to be an activist or rich person to |
| - Solar energy can only be produced during the day | | | | own a solar energy home and embrace the green |
| time hours and in effect only when and where the sun | | | | effect and truly contribute to the long-term health of |
| shines. Living in Antarctica will make the decision a | | | | our planet. There are some short term financial |
| no-brainer! | | | | sacrifices one will have to make, but these are |
| - Solar panels installed by contractors can be | | | | dwarfed by the long term financial and environmental |
| expensive | | | | benefits that would be generated by embracing the |
| - Authorities are slow in setting up structures in the | | | | concept of renewable solar energy advantages. |