In 2012, I had solar panels installed on my Tempe home and saw a reduction in my electricity bill of 70 percent. Recently, I had the chance to review a similar contract for a new solar installation. For almost the same price that I paid, this solar system will produce roughly 45 percent more electricity than mine. This brave new world of technology, combined with hardworking local solar businesses, is keeping more dollars in Arizonan's pockets and less pollution from dirty coal and other fossil fuels from being released.
I was encouraged in June to see the Tempe City Council pass a goal for renewable energy on city facilities ("Tempe Council moves forward on green energy initiative"). Solar makes too much sense for city governments to not make it a top priority. I hope Tempe will do more, such as strengthening this goal and looking towards solar targets involving the entire city, not just city government.
Tim Bedient
Tempe, AZ
Class of 1975
