Austin is becoming more and more interested in solar energy. The City has been proposing tax-cuts to residents interested in investing in solar power, and/or breaks on solar panels. This topic has been under a great deal of discussion at my building, as we are considering going Solar. The problem is always money, the cost of the panels, and installation.
On March 6, the Austin Chronicle article by Katherine Gregor, "Cool City: Solar Subtleties" Solar Power in Austin is further discussed.
The city has proposed a $250 million solar-power-purchase agreement which is to be "the first step toward becoming a partially solar-powered municipality, as required by the City Council-mandated Austin Climate Protection Plan."
Presently, Austin is trying to lock-in a fixed low price for solar energy. Solar power is expensive, but is getting more reasonable. One of the most expensive attributes will be the start-up contract price, which may raise energy rates overall. In numbers, a non-green home pays about $37 per month, whereas a green home could end up paying about $155 per month. Residents like Robert C Duncan criticize the plan, preferring Austin adopt a "nuclear-power-purchase agreement" instead. The council mandate seems very clear about using "solar power by 2020."
Local is on its way, but presently, panels are produced in China, and Gemini Solar (whom Austin is negotiating a plan with) is based in San Francisco.
Overall, it's clear Austin is firm about attaining solar energy. Austin wants to start using solar energy now as a means to learn more and become most efficient in harnessing it. Why you should read this article? This may effect your future energy costs, and way of life.
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