I'm home from work today. As I sit here... [View all]

[Javaman]

I'm getting solar panels installing on my home.

It was a good chunk of money, but with the federal rebate and tax deduction, it comes to about 6 grand. In about 6 years, they will pay for themselves.

I have been an environmentalist for pretty much my whole life. It has alway pained me that I have had to use coal to power my home.

About 8 years ago, we switched over to the wind power program via Austin Utilities. Our rates went up as part of the deal and when the wind wasn't blowing, coal power would kick in. Luckily, we only had to use a small amount of coal power. The was doing it's job.

Now, today, we are on 100 percent solar and what we don't use gets sold back to Austin. If that means my neighbor uses some of the power I generate, fantastic.

I know everyone can't afford to do this, but via a low interest loan, can make it possible.

My vow in my life has been to leave this earth with a lower carbon footprint then when I entered it. This is a step toward that.

Cheers and Peace.
Javaman.