true

2008-10-25T04:42:55Z

765.0

false

true

false

I will write a 1,000-word story looking into the costs of solar power and why more isn't being done in the Bay Area to increase solar power usage by homeowners. I will talk with solar power users and businesses about these issues. Photos of the businesses and homes will be included.

2009-01-25T00:00:00Z

This story will help people understand the costs of solar power and why it costs so much and may be prohibitive to many homeowners. Help spread the word about this pitch. Click "Share" in the lower right to embed this widget on your blog, Facebook, etc. <img src="http://counters.gigya.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.0NXC/bT*xJmx*PTEyMjgxNjQzMDMzMTQmcHQ9MTIyODE2NDMzNjIwNCZwPTEyMDc*MSZkPWpRRHFXUmRaRCU1RjNqaXNvbSZnPTEmdD*mbz1iMzhkYWUwZTQ4MjM*MjdiOWQ3MTg2NTc3NjU4NmJjMA==.gif" height="0" width="0" />

false

When will this be affordable?

image/jpeg

0014energysol.thumb.jpg

11531

2008-11-16T17:47:15Z

Solar power: When will it be affordable for Bay Area homeowners? 20 solar power, California, homeowner, PG&E

1000.0

The Bay Area is often a leader on emerging technology, so why doesn't every homeowner in the Bay Area have solar power? Why don't we see solar panels everywhere? Since the gas crisis of the 1970s people have been saying that solar power will eventually get cheaper. Is that time coming? How much does it cost to get solar power installed on the typical house? How long does it take to pay for itself in cost savings from PG&E bills? If the cost is low, or the return quick, why aren't solar companies doing more to promote it? Maybe the move is just around the corner with the next president pushing for more alternative power, but as one of the more forward thinking states in the union, California should be leading the way.

I've been a journalist for 22 years, as a reporter, copy editor and assigning editor. I know a good story when I see one and consider myself very inquisitive. The questions I've proposed are ones that I think many Bay Area homeowners would like answers to. accepted

2009-02-27T19:05:32Z