Talking Big about Renewable Energy?

Question

I have always wondered why so many talk renewables up so much, but very few actually buy much of it? Dual or off the Grid power solutions are very expensive, for a normal conventional wood structured house, it starts around $20k for an off the grid, or strong dual system. Alternative green houses can make better use (needing less power, and for that a cheaper solution), but even those houses are not being sought after for construction (yet you hear that 'We' should be building them--demand and supply tells the truth that they are not popular).

Even when people have real choice, if their electric markets are deregulated, and companies like Green Mountain Power comes in, most still go with the cheaper power, than the clean power, pretty much for the same reason they go into Wal-Mart, but demand that we stop off-shoring all our jobs.

It's like renewables are more talk, and very little action. Why bother talking it, if nothing is going to happen?

Answer 1

the same answer of upper one

Answer 2

I believe it is a matter of marketing.  Too few people see an immediate need to shell out $20k on a system that doesn't seem to provide them with anything more than their existing ~$100/month service does.

When people develop an eager want for independent power, the market will take off.  Several things need to be addressed first:

1. Renewable energy needs to shed its image of being a fringe solution that will go away when energy prices drop again.  People aren't going to go for something enmasse if they think support will evaporate.

2. The price.  As long as a system costs as much as a car, and depreciates like one, very few people will see the advantage in buying one.

3. Aesthetics.  The winner will be the one that integrates nicely into the architecture of the house and either complements the structure or is unobtrusive enough to not detract from the curb appeal.

4. Utility.  The system should provide sufficient reliable power on demand.  Few people want to think about their electrical power and where it is generated.  They just want to be able to flip a switch and there it is.