On (16 Nov 97) Tim Hutzler wrote to Shane Day...
 SD> Hi there I was wondering If someone could help me, I'm looking
 SD> to purchase a complete home powering system, Solar pannels
 TH> First, if you plan to use solar cells - you'll need a *LOT* of
 TH> money.
I beg to differ. I'm don't like over-selling solar, but I also don't
like under-selling it. Solar electric systems can compete dollar for
dollar with the subsidized grid if you are 1/4 to 1/2 mile off the
grid. 
Solar will NOT economically power the typical energy hogging
American home though.
 TH> Despite advancements, they are still way too expensive.
Compared to what? 
How about compared to the actual cost grid power, including cleaning
up the ground, air and water after coal-fired or nuke plants?
Solar electric systems are working for thousands and thousands of
families NOW. It's fun to dream of a time when they will be really
cheap, but I think that's pie-in-the-sky. The average home system
costs less than the average new car. I think new cars are "still way
too expensive". :)
                        Ian
... Solar energy - do the bright thing.                                       
 
... "Attitude...We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is
play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude."
--- PPoint 1.96
---------------