PV Gap

Eugene Said:

Why is solar energy important in Arizona?

We Answered:

The intensity of solar energy is greater in Arizona than most areas of the US as much as 8 kilowatt hours of energy per day. A kilowatt hour is about the energy put out by a one horsepower motor running for one hour. Most of the country receives an average of between 3 and 5 kilowatts of solar energy per day. The greater intensity of solar energy in Arizona makes investments in large solar arrays much more attractive.

Sara Said:

why is Arizona not mandating solar energy to be used???? hello Valley of the Sun!!?

We Answered:

Incentives. If there is no money to be made by an action, generally most municipalities, city and federal view any initial expenditures as drains on the economy. But if they are selective about what issues have a long range positive outlook, they should definitely look into solar as well as wind machines. I also know of a few other applications which can be used by individuals even if your govt is not "user-friendly"

Jackie Said:

Is Arizona producing only green energy(nuclear included...)?

We Answered:

your proposed system will net less energy to a consumer. Just keep it at PV > electricity. Then live with no power at night.

The solar > Water > electricity is no longer an option because the sytem fails under thermo stress. Today is solar > heating medium (oil or salt > to water > electricity

There is no such thing as cheap solar, ask Spain, they are going broke with cheap solar energy.

Angel Said:

Why do States like Arizona, New Mexico, or Texas don't use more Solar Energy if it is sunny most of the year?

We Answered:

Good question.  Solar hot water is cheaper than electric, but I don't think I saw more than 2 solar water heaters during the year I lived in Texas.

Landlords don't install solar because conventional stuff is cheaper to buy, and they pay the mortgage but not the utilities.  Tenants would probably have lower total outlays if their units had solar hot water and heat, but they don't get a choice in the matter.