Not only is the Sun the driving force behind all life on Earth, it is also a virtually endless source of energy. Unfortunately, this fact has been overlooked by generations of modern humans. Now, though, with oil prices continuing their unending rise, our nation is beginning to see our nearest star as a valuable powerhouse.
Many states are beginning to integrate solar energy on a larger scale than ever before. For example, Florida Power and Light recently announced their plan to build the nation's second-largest solar plant. The facility is to be built in Martin County, and will utilize 180,000 solar mirrors spread across 500 acres. The power generated at the solar plant will supplement Florida Power and Light's existing natural gas facility and produce enough energy to power 11,000 homes. Across the nation in Hawaii, the James Campbell Company is looking to build a 12-acre solar park, which could supplement electric power for 6,700 homes each year. Meanwhile, SAS, a leading software development company, is looking to reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by over 1,600 tons annually by created a solar farm at its North Carolina headquarters. In California, MMA Renewable Ventures is helping the state's universities develop solar facilities by financing the cost of construction in return for a favorable power purchase agreement.
While building solar plants can help supplement existing electricity demands, some developers are aiming even higher. In San Diego County, Open Energy is planning to develop a solar-powered condominium complex. Residents of the complex would purchase solar-powered electricity from Open Energy as part of their utility package. An even larger undertaking is being chaired by Actus Lend Lease, a military housing contractor. Actus is currently working with the U.S. Army to build the world's largest, sustainable solar community. The project would encompass approximately 8,000 homes and include ten community centers. Although the budget for this huge undertaking stands at $2.2 billion, it is hoped the community will save 18,000 barrels of oil per year.
For those homeowners who don't plan to move onto a solar commune, single-family homes can implement their own solar-powered generators. Right now, the cost for such an undertaking averages approximately $40,000, and this upgrade can take 7 to 12 years to pay for itself. Not ready to make such a large investment? You can still integrate solar power into your lifestyle. Check with your local power company to see if they offer some solar alternatives. Approximately 800 American utility companies have access to solar energy and will sell it to their clients. There are also consumer-ready products available to those who want to make use of the sun's energy without making a long-term financial commitment. For example, solar ovens can be bought or constructed from a simple kit, and solar chargers can power small electronic devices, such as cell phones and portable DVD players. In fact, MediaStreet has developed a 1GB mp3 player entirely run off the sun's rays.
Today, less than 1% of our nation's electricity comes from solar power. However, with new developments on the rise, this figure is likely to grow exponentially in the near future. Increasing our use of solar power will inevitably reduce carbon-dioxide emissions and mediate our dependence on expensive, non-renewable resources. Thus, solar power has the ability to improve our environment, and our wallets. So, watch for new developments, and make an informed decision regarding your energy needs.
