Can You Really Get Solar for Free?

The answer is no. While the concept of getting solar panels for 'free' is appealing, the truth is far more nuanced. Let's delve into the realities surrounding solar panels, and understand the true cost of renewable energy.

Leasing vs. Purchasing Solar Panels

Typically, when you see advertisements for 'free' solar panels, what they really mean is that there is no upfront cost. Providers often offer leasing options or financing plans, which means you're paying over time. This approach can be significantly more expensive than just purchasing the system outright. Financing involves interest, which can make the total cost higher in the long run.

Leasing is a popular option because it requires no initial payment, but it may not be the most financially advantageous. The term 'zero-down' is misleading as it could mean you're still paying for the system over several years. My advice would be to only consider solar panels if you can buy them outright, with a price that allows for a quick payback within eight years.

Historical Context and Government Incentives

Over a decade ago, Tesla installed solar panels for free for my girlfriend, albeit under a complex contract. This situation is rare and often comes with significant strings attached. Most of the time, getting solar panels for free isn't feasible. Instead, governments provide generous subsidies and incentives to encourage the adoption of solar power. In many cases, these incentives can make the initial cost of solar installation more manageable.

For example, in the U.S., there was a significant subsidy of $5,000 per system, along with contract terms that made power production more lucrative. However, the underlying cost of manufacturing solar panels is immense. The production process requires substantial fossil fuel usage and capital, along with rare earth minerals, silver, and copper, which are environmentally hazardous to mine. Additionally, the ongoing maintenance and infrastructure costs add to the overall expense.

The Hidden Costs of Solar Power

The sun doesn't always shine, and wind doesn't always blow, which means these renewable sources need backup power solutions. Often, this backup comes from more traditional, and cheaper, sources like natural gas and nuclear power. Hence, the push towards renewables isn't just about environmental benefits; it's also about economic control and social engineering.

Leaders like Barack Obama openly advocated for carbon rules, which would lead to skyrocketing electricity rates. They argue that this will force people to use less energy, thereby reducing economic output and spurring socialization. The environmentalist Michael Shellenberger notes that renewables are never meant to power modern civilization, highlighting a broader strategy at play.

These costs and inefficiencies highlight why many experts believe that a complete transition to renewable sources would be ruinous for the economy. The promise of free solar power is often just an illusion, a means to an end aimed at increasing the cost of energy and shifting societal norms.

Conclusion

While the idea of free solar power may seem attractive, it's important to understand the underlying costs and potential long-term impacts. Renewable energy, while beneficial for the environment, carries significant financial and logistical burdens. The reality is that solar power is expensive, and the drive to make it more accessible often comes with hidden costs.