| The reason why solar power is so expensive is | | | | Ideas like a spray on solar panel that could be used on |
| because of the raw material that is used in the | | | | the windows of skyscrapers. Essentially the windows |
| manufacturing process. The raw material that is so | | | | would be sprayed with a thin film that would generate |
| expensive is silicon, like the stuff they make microchips | | | | electricity and keep most of the windows properties, |
| from. Although silicon is a relatively common material, | | | | so it can still let light and heat in. Another idea that is |
| the process needed to make it pure enough for | | | | being researched is the use of organic material in solar |
| semiconductors requires a lot of energy. | | | | panels. Some organic materials have semiconductor |
| The factories that can provide this energy can cost | | | | properties, so they may be able to use those instead |
| millions to operate, which means that there are not that | | | | of silicon. |
| many factories that refine silicon. The limited amount of | | | | Hopefully in the near future some of these ideas can |
| factories create a limited supply of refined silicon, which | | | | be put to use to reduce solar power cost. Wouldn't it |
| increases the cost. Really it's simple economics, supply | | | | be great if the average homeowner could use solar |
| and demand, less supply plus more demand equals | | | | power for all of their energy needs. What about |
| higher cost. | | | | skyscrapers making their own energy, how much |
| As solar power technology evolves, new and better | | | | pollution would that save the planet. If we could make |
| ways to make solar panels should help reduce the | | | | a buildings energy needs self sustainable and we did |
| cost. Since the cost of silicon is one of the main | | | | this to buildings all across America, how much would |
| factors in the cost of solar panels if we can find ways | | | | that cut our dependence on foreign oil. |
| to use less silicon or even replace it with a cheaper | | | | We have the answers to our energy needs and it's |
| material, while keeping efficiency at the same level, | | | | time we became self sufficient as a country. Even if |
| solar power would be much more affordable for | | | | solar power is expensive it's time we started to think |
| everyone. Thankfully both of these options are being | | | | about our future before it's too late. If you could reduce |
| researched and some great ideas have come from | | | | your utility bill, add value to your home, and help reduce |
| this research. | | | | pollution, what would you do. |