Take the sun for a spin

In response to Jerry Olson’s letter, “Forecast overly sunny,” Nov. 1, I would like to argue a different perspective.

It is practical to wonder if the cost of installing solar panels at the White House is really worth it. Installation will cost $100,000, which will take approximately 36.3 years to repay, considering the $2,758 saved each year by cutting electricity bills. This affects every U.S. citizen since our money is funding this system.

As more researchers are realizing the potential of solar power, there is an increasing inclination to utilize it because, other than installation and maintenance, this power is free of charge. With this in mind, should U.S. citizens opt for solar power? It seems like a good idea to “test drive” solar panels, but it would be reasonable to try them out somewhere smaller.

Instead, they could be installed on several houses across America. Reports from average citizens like ourselves will be easier to relate to and will explain how one’s finances might change. The financial gain may seem small right now, but by igniting such an extreme environmental change, America may become rich in knowledge and perhaps even profitable in the future.

Ashley H. Meese

Spokane