Just In: Solar Energy Comes to Walton In A Big Way

[Kurt]

Solar Energy Comes to Walton In A Big Way

by Alicia Leonard, DeFuniak Herald Beach Breeze

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill drove home the point that counties along the Panhandle would need to diversify in order to secure economic development for their residents that were not dependent upon the tourist industry.

Two south Walton businessmen have a hot idea to encourage growth in the renewable energy market,

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[kdp4th]

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[Beauty hunter]

cool or should I say hot !!!

 

[David Pleat]

cool or should I say hot !!!

The Solar Farm guys are engaging in just the type of business we need in our region. I wish them all the success.

 

[Paula]

Does anyone have ideas for using solar power and other energy saving equipment on/in/around individual homes in a way that maintains the look of the community (e.g., I don't know what kind of solar power equipment our cottage association would approve, but it's something I'm starting to think about since I'm planning to keep our places for the long run.

Thanks

 

[scooterbug44]

Solar panels don't really affect the look of a community IMO - they are just panels on the roof and not that visible, but for situations with uber picky neighbors, they have made a variety of products that blend in more.

Alys Beach and Gidget are 2 recent examples of homes with solar panels that could be good resources.

 

[Kurt]

Won't it be cool when any plain-old looking surface or coating will generate tons of energy from solar?

 

[Paula]

It doesn't surprise me that Alys Beach is on top of this (I think they're very cool and forward thinking). In addition to the environmental impact, aiir conditioning is such a big expense here in Florida, so if solar panels and other technologies can reduce the cost of air conditioning, my guess is I/we would get the initial investment back in a reasonable amount of time (for people who are holding onto their property for the long-term). So, I'm looking for options.

 

[Matt J]

It doesn't surprise me that Alys Beach is on top of this (I think they're very cool and forward thinking). In addition to the environmental impact, aiir conditioning is such a big expense here in Florida, so if solar panels and other technologies can reduce the cost of air conditioning, my guess is I/we would get the initial investment back in a reasonable amount of time (for people who are holding onto their property for the long-term). So, I'm looking for options.

If you really want to save on A/C go ground. The geothermal units work great and operate at a fraction of what normal units do. Be very selective in your installer. My grandfather had one that wasn't installed properly and wound up with termites at the penetration point where the pipes came into the house.