Will the White House install solar panels?

Will the White House go green?

If the Obama administration is serious about encouraging eco-refits on US homes, then surely it should set an example by installing solar panels on the White House? Or maybe construct a wind turbine in the Rose Garden?

Ok, well we weren't serious about the latter idea, but installing solar panels would show the American people that the President was serious about his renewable energy goals. This is what a coalition of solar power companies, led by Sungevity, are pushing not just because it would set a good example, but no doubt because they'd see their profits go up to!

In an online petition, the companies say in an open letter to the President,

Dear President Obama,

We proudly support the initiative to put solar on the White House and strongly urge you to accept Sungevity's offer to donate and install a comprehensive solar system, at no cost to you or taxpayers. This achievement will be an important symbol to the world that the United States is committed to realizing the environmental and economic benefits of clean energy.

Sincerely,

People for Solar on the White House

The White House goes green

Now if it goes ahead, it won't be the first time the White House has had solar panels installed. In 1979, then-President Jimmy Carter installed a solar array to show his green credentials, but the panels were later removed in 1986 by President Reagan... just when Carter's solar power tax credits were set to expire.

However the solar coalition want an array permanently installed, which would have the potential to lower the White House's utility bills by 81 percent. Not just that, but the companies would install the system for free OR, if the president doesn't want it as a gift, lease an array to the American Public for $537 per month with free maintenance and a full warranty.

According to Sungevity, the White House would need a 17.85 kW STC system, which when you include the monthly lease payment, would cut monthly bills by a staggering US$1,610.

The petition will be presented to the White House once it receives 10,000 signatures, so if you think it's a good idea - sign here.

Last week, the White House promised $452 million worth of eco-retrofits for homes in 25 communities across the country as part of its new "Retrofit Ramp Up" program. As well as creating greater energy efficiency in US homes, it is hoped the project will create more 'green collar' jobs, save millions in utility bills and help America cut emissions.

If the White House installation goes ahead, surely it's only a matter of time before the Pentagon has them put on its massive surface area?

Relevant articles:

$452m eco-refit program for US homes | Dow's solar shingles: Solar panels 2.0? | Training labor veterans for green jobs

Timon Singh

Timon Singh is a graduate of Liverpool University where he received a degree in Social and Economic History. He has previously worked for BBC Magazines on BBC Who Do You Think You Are? Magazine, the publication for the popular genealogy show.

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