Solar Power: Thoughts

I have always been interested in the idea of solar power. I am actually not too familar with the topic, which is why I wanted to INVESTIGATE (dun, dun dun...) Solar power is defined as "energy from the sun's radiation converted into heat or electricity"
(www.wisconsinpublicservice.com/farm/terms.asp). It's argued that solar power is cost efficient, though you have to pay for it in the begining, you'll reap the benefits as time goes on.

Politics:
Did you know...
"The White House has proposed $148 million for solar energy development in 2007, up almost 80 percent from what it invested in 2006". (http://environment.about.com/od/renewableenergy/a/solar_power.htm)
With incresing gas/oil prices, the government has further looked into alternative energy sources. We have to look at what is going to save money for the nation as a whole. This is to ensure that future generations will have a place to live without fear of turmoil (Oooo! Turmoil).

Now for the corny Miss America answer...I think solar power is something that everyone is able to use, the fact that the sun's radiation is abundant is also a plus.

Solar power can be used to achieve many things, keep in mind that solar power can be used to heat your home, light your home, and heat your water so you don't have to use natural gas. Let's focus on solar power lights (What can I say? I like my garden scene. Plus it is something that is commonly used.) Though it costs money, "using solar lighting instead of electrical lighting to light up your landscape and outdoor areas will ultimately save hundreds or even thousands of dollars over the course of years" (http://ezinearticles.com/?Pros-and-Cons-Of-Solar-Powered-Outdoor-Lighting&id=1070671). Maintenance of the lights is also less taxing. One thing that needs to be kept in mind is the idea of reliability. It is important to keep in mind that we are using a source that is only present for half the day. Also, if the weather is anything like this past winter in Chicago (snowy, fog, raining) it will be harder to gather the energy to illuminate the lights. ( You don't want another Christmas without lights do you?) However, newer technologies have allowed solar cells to store energy absorbed during the day to be used effectively at night time. Some criticisms such as not being reliable at night, or not being able to sustain themselves (very weak power output), are negated. Solar power reduces one's emissions to zero and frees up an overburdened petroleum industry.

In the words of The Beatles "HERE COMES THE SUN (doodoo doodoo)