If we can be sure of anything, it’s that brick-and-mortar stores are not going anywhere anytime soon. According to a recent Forrester report, 86% of retail sales in the US still happen in traditional physical stores. This is due in no small part to the fact that Millennials and Generation Z, who prefer in-person shopping at a greater than two-to-one rate, now possess the greatest buying power in our economy.
In the nearly 20 years that I have been immersed in the world of sustainable energy, I have continued to see the cost of purchasing and maintaining a solar rig drop year after year. In fact, according to a recent Bloomberg report, PV system operations and maintenance costs have shrunk in half over the last four years alone.
It’s the time of year when we are all called upon to count our blessings and remember what we are thankful for, and we have plenty that fits the bill. We are grateful to be in an industry that is actively working to save the planet. We are grateful to be located in such a beautiful area and surrounded by a terrific community. But most of all, we are grateful for our customers, for giving us a reason to get up every morning and get people energized.
The 2018 Heartland Solar Tour is right around the corner, and this year 12 Southern Illinois homes and businesses will be available for the open house-style tour. On Saturday, October 6th, from 10AM to 3PM, you can visit any or all of the locations below and learn first-hand from solar owners what it’s like to live with solar power and how it has impacted their lives (and power bills)!
Over the last 19 years that I have spent learning about, installing, and living with solar power, I have seen countless innovations in the industry. Solar panels seem to get cheaper and more efficient every day as new production methods and materials are able to convert more sunlight into electricity. Over the last few years, a greater focus on battery storage has made it easier to store more energy in a smaller footprint. But some of the most interesting innovations are the ones that help me to be a better solar installer and get more people energized.
It’s hard to believe, but Autumn is already nearly upon us, and as the heat finally subsides, it’s a great time of year to get out and tour our beautiful region. Folks from Southern Illinois know all about crawling the scenic Wine Trail, and have probably spent a serene weekend or two exploring the gorgeous Shawnee National Forest and watching the leaves turn. But there is another local excursion coming up in October that you will not want to miss.
When you think about the sun, what is the first thing that pops into your head? Sunny Summer barbecues? Getting out onto the water and catching a tan? The scorching center of our solar system? Whatever it is, getting cool is probably not at the top of the list. However, the sun is the most versatile, constant source of power we have, and that means it can power much more than a lazy afternoon in the hammock. It can actually keep you cool!
