Solar Power Offers Bright Future To Meet Energy Needs
by Sarah Gustafson

    HARDWICK  A common misconception in Vermont is the Green Mountain State
is too cloudy for solar energy to be greatly beneficial.
    David Palumbo, a certified PV installer from Independent Power LLC in
Hyde Park, has a different view. He told about 30 people Thursday that
Vermont is actually sunnier than Germany and Japan. They are the leading
countries in solar energy, and the main reason why the mountains here are so
green.
    His comments were made at a solar energy and efficiency workshop
sponsored by the Hardwick Energy Action Resource Team and Efficiency Vermont
The workshop was held to promote the use of photovoltaic power in the
Hardwick area.
    Palumbo also illustrated the dynamic difference between power generated
by solar energy and that of other renewable energy sources. He said solar
power outstrips them all economically and in energy potential.
    The cost of electricity is expected to double in the next five years,
and with developing economies in China and other parts of the world experts
have stated the world's energy use is expected to reach 228 billion mwh by
2050. The impact of greenhouse gases on the planet has already begun to
demonstrate adverse influences, and steps need to be taken to reduce the use
of fossil fuels and to conserve energy use, he said.
   While solar power is expensive to install, the system pays itself off
over time, particularly quickly for buildings such as schools and department
stores, which use large amounts of power each year. The consumption of
energy throughout the world is astounding, he said, and therefore the use of
energy efficient products and education about renewable energy sources needs
to be considered on a larger scale.
    What does this mean for Vermont? The HEART team worked for over a year
to promote awareness for alternative and renewable energy in the Hardwick
area in conjunction with Efficiency Vermont. These organizations work with
schools, businesses, and individuals to educate and to encourage positive
changes in energy usage throughout the state. HEART also works with J
Modrey's science students at Hazen Union School to discuss and experiment
with alternative energy in the classroom.
    Similarly, the workshop Thursday consisted of concerned citizens
interested in making changes in energy use, and looking to gain knowledge
about the benefits of solar power for their homes and businesses. The
workshop focused on photo voltaic power, but there is potential for more
workshops on energy efficiency.
    For information on renewable energy go to www.rerc-vt.org for system
descriptions and a list of Vermont installers and dealers. For information
on energy efficiency in the home go to www.efficiencyvermont.com

©2007 The Hardwick Gazette