Marin residents are giving much more than lip service to the war on global warming.
Homeowners, businesses and governmental agencies have been busy installing solar panels – enough to lead the Bay Area in the number of solar-energy panels per capita.
That success likely stems from awareness and affluence.
Local residents long have had a strong environmental ethic. Over the years, residents have invested tax dollars and political energy into preserving ridge lines, redwood groves, marshlands and farmlands. That so much of Marin is protected as parkland and open space is a lasting reflection of that ethic.
In recent years, the installation of solar panels has become another example.
Worries about global warming and costly power bills have led a growing number of Marin residents to install solar panels to tap sunshine for electricity.
Local government has been responsive, waiving or reducing permit fees. The county, instead of charging for a permit, offers a rebate. Combined with federal and state rebates, which agencies should renew, the $35,000 average cost of installing a solar system on a home is lowered to less than $20,000.
That’s no small investment, but it is one that pays off in lower electricity bills and helps reduce our dependence on non-renewable energy sources.
According to the Northern California Solar Energy Association, Marin has 4.3 solar-energy systems per 1,000 residents. That ratio leads the nine Bay Area counties.
Marin should take pride in that top ranking.
Read the original Marin Independent Journal story here.
Categories: Uncategorized