This is the second in the series of 5 articles dealing with the solar industry, authored by journalist/entrepreneur/sustainable energy specialist, Carl Martens.

Right, we’ve all heard the cliché, “Timing is everything”…entirely too many times. How about changing that to “Timing is Mandatory.” It’s mandatory in the solar and sustainable energy industry due to the current insane state of affairs challenging our country/planet – and amazingly coinciding with the timing of the latest developments in solar advancement and awareness. Look what’s happening around the world. You’d have to be a member of the ‘walking dead’ not to be aware of the huge challenges facing our environment, on a global level. The BP debacle in the golf; our smog polluted cities; dangerous levels of chemicals and pollutants in water and the foods we eat. In most cases it’s getting worse, not better. OK, motor vehicle emissions have been cleaned up a bit, but that’s the tip of the proverbial iceberg. Iceberg? They’re disappearing you know – along with drowning polar bears – but that’s a whole other story…later…

So how does timing enter this discussion?

It’s time to find alternative power supplies – and fast. Oil dependency must cease. Coal and natural gas powered electric generation plants must be cleaned up or shut down. You’ve heard all this before. I know you have. But, for various reasons – many politically motivated – the transition is painfully slow. Like watching an oil drenched tortoise crawling painfully out of the muck…

Here’s where the timing comes in. We – individually – collectively – as citizens of the United States – as homeowners – have an unprecedented opportunity…something I would label as “Mandatory Timing!”…which will unlikely occur as propitiously again. Very simply, we really can all make a difference and there isn’t a better time to be proactive than now. It’s as if all the “energy gods” were convening at the same time – offering us something on a silver platter. Will we see it and take advantage of it?

Solar Power – or as the industry accurately refers to it as Photovoltaic (PV) Solar – has been in the development stage for decades. And you know, I do believe they’ve finally got it right. It was lead by a company we’re all familiar with – Sharp – having launched its first satellite in 1962 with solar panels (not able to generate all that much power with 40 watts, but still floating around up there somewhere and actually still functioning). Now, the new Sharp panel (one of the most advanced solar panels available), is generating well over 200 watts per panel – and is used extensively in residential applications. That’s as in “my house”…and “your house”…and “your neighbor’s house.”

Granted, there are some homes on which solar will not function, due to too much tree shade, or a totally North facing roof. However, it’s quite amazing how creative the professional solar contractor can be when challenged with other than optimum conditions. Please, do not pre-judge before contacting one. There are usually solutions, as long as the desire to play your part in this life-threatening drama is strong. It has to be, or we’ll sink back into the complacency of yesterday, and who’s going to suffer? Our kids, our grand kids, future generations.

One other timing factor is helpful. Uncle Sam actually wants to support your efforts to become more energy independent. He’s currently willing to give you a 30% tax credit – with no ceiling – for any PV solar installation. How does that work? It’s not merely a deduction on your tax return; it’s actually a dollar for dollar credit on your taxes. If you pay $10,000 in federal taxes – and 30% of the total solar job amounts to $9,000, you’ll be getting back that $9,000 when you file next year. These programs have limitations and (again) timing is everything. There are usually other financial incentives as well – like utility company rebates. Give Sungate a call and be certain to ask lots of questions. Our Energy Specialists are well trained and versed in all matters that can help save you money and provide cost effective renewable energy for your home.

Call, toll-free, 1 (888) 9 Sungate today!

We’ve got financial incentives, superb solar technologies, (many guaranteed for 25 years minimum), and the need for clean energy, NOW. I’d say that amounts to perfect timing. And ALL THE PLAYERS ARE READY!!!! Are you?

The next in the series of five articles will delve into “what really happens when you add solar to your home.” So, until next time – remember, the sun is our friend…and please, turn out the lights when they’re not in use.