Since the 1970s – and perhaps well before – many pundits have proclaimed that a Golden Age of solar energy was “just around the corner.” Soon, they promised, solar would replace more polluting energy sources, such as coal and natural gas. In the decades since solar’s first “big promise,” the technology has seen its ups and downs. At this point, consumers are significantly confused. Where is solar at? Will the fabled solar energy revolution ever arrive? If so, when?

Evidence is mounting that we may indeed finally be on the verge of revolutionizing our energy grid and switching over to solar in a large scale way. Consider the following factors conspiring to bring about and accelerate the solar revolution.

1. The “green energy” revolution has gone mainstream.

Irrespective of your political persuasion or your views on alternative energy, you cannot deny how much attention the media, politicians, and our culture at large have been lavishing on “green energy solutions.” America is obsessed with green energy as never before. This collective obsession cannot help but fuel the fire of the solar revolution.

2. Powerful new consumer motivators.

Homeowners are tired of paying through the nose at the pump and on their utility bills.  Economic times are tight. Consumers want new, innovative ways to save without compromising their lifestyles. Once you install a solar array, you essentially maintain total independence from the grid power utility – and you can keep this independence up for a lifetime without investing in maintenance. Consumers are also more inclined to install solar for social reasons. Solar is not for the eclectic or overly wealthy anymore: it’s a viable, even fashionable solution.

Finally, there are serious financial motivations. For instance, a federal government tax incentive program recently provided $4,000 in tax credits for homeowners who installed solar. That’s a$4,000 deduction in money you would owe at the end of the year.

3. Radical improvements in solar technologies.

The “barrier to entry” for homeowners has never been lower. The decades of R&D, combined with the passion and urgency of solar advocates has led to the development of exciting, novel,cost effective, and well-engineered solutions. All that said, designing, developing, and executing a solar energy solution for your home can be a daunting task, unless you have a partner whom you can trust to facilitate the experience tomake sure it hews to your principles and budget.

Fortunately, you can connect with the most trusted name in roofing, Century Roof and Solar. For over 15 years, our contractors have installed premium roof systems throughout the San Francisco Bay area.  Learn more about how we can help you save money, protect the environment, and get free of the grid with a solar solution at www.noutilitybill.com, or connect with us at 888-233-7548 for a free roofing and/or solar quote.

Skylights and so-called “sun tubes” are becoming increasingly popular – not just among cutting-edge architects but also among “rank and file” building designers and homeowners.  What’s changed about our collective attitude towards these features?
1. First of all, skylights and sun tubes can help you save on electricity bills.
In an “up” economy, saving a few bucks a month on your power bill might not seem like much.  But in today’s troubled economy, homeowners and small businesses are turning over every rock to look for innovative ways to save. When you get natural sunlight through a skylight or sun tube to light up your kitchen, bathroom, rec room, or other area, you don’t need to keep flipping on and off the electricity.
2. Aesthetics.
Let’s face it.  A properly installed, “feng shui” engineered skylight can work wonders for a room.  Skylights are a lot more attractive than florescent overhead lights, for instance, and human beings have a biological craving for natural sunlight.
3. Airtight installations.
New technology and innovative installation techniques have resolved problems (leaks and loss of heat/cool air) that once plagued the skylight and sun tube industry.  A qualified and reputable company, such as CenturyRoof and Solar, can install airtight and leak-proof lights easily.
4. Remote control openings.
One possible downside to some skylights is that they must be cranked open and closed by hand.  This might not seem like to big of deal but if you are elderly, have a disability, or someone who might use the feature on a regular basis– a manually operated sunlight can be somewhat frustrating to use.  Fortunately, new technologies have solved this problem – many skylights can be cranked open via remote control now, nice for convenience and nice for show feature.
5. Vitamin D.
Compelling scientific research now suggests that many Americans suffer from vitamin D deficiency – a condition that’s associated with lack of natural sunlight.  By allowing more natural light into your home, you may be able to indulge (carefully!) in the sun’s natural rays and boost your vitamin D levels.
If you would like a personalized consultation regarding your skylight and sun tube needs, talk to the Bay Area leaders in roof systems, Century Roof and Solar.  Learn more at www.centuryrooftile.com or call 888-233-7548 for a free roofing/skylight sun tube quote.

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