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Affordable, effective solar energy still not here yet

Saltair - As well-meaning as Mr. Dix may be, he is talking about a pipe dream. Affordable, effective residential solar energy is at least a decade or a generation away at the coast - perhaps even much more.

In response to three questions, a local authority on solar energy answered thusly: Q1: Because we experience heavy, multilayer cloud cover at the coast, is solar energy practical?A1: It probably is, given advances due to NASA technology although connection to the Hydro grid for low productivity periods would be required.Q2: How many solar panels would be required for a residence to effectivelyaccess solar energy?A2: To achieve good results, a considerable number of panels [in Mr. Dix's words, a "solar farm"].Q3: What is the amortization period if one were to utilize solar energy?A3: 25 years.So, as surely as water runs downhill, our coastal location significantly reduces our ability to rely on solar energy and the cost of switching to it would take 25 years to amortize - not to mention the cost of the ever-predictable upgrades as well as the continued reliance on Hydro.To Mr. Dix, no thank you. To Messrs. Kent and Lefebure, you should be doing your due diligence.Pat MulcahySaltair