The Cost of "Going Green" - Solar Panels

I've always been a big proponent of green techonologies and reusable energy. In recent months, since we are in process of building a new home, I've researched some of the green methods for feasibility, such as geothermal heating and solar panels. Unfortunately, what I've discovered is that the cost of these enhancements is prohibitive unless you plan to stay in the home for the long term.

Solar panels, for example, can set you back tens of thousands of dollars. In fact, you have to live in the house at least a decade to recoup the cost; it costs approximately $30,000 to $40,000 to retrofit a 4 kilowatt solar system. In order to reach price equality with electric rates, solar systems need to be cut in half.

Part of the challenge is that polysilicon, main ingredient of solar panels, is expensive to produce! Until that portion of the techonology drops its cost, we will be faced with exhorbitant solar systems.