Why are the prices of these panels and/or entire photovoltiac systems are so far out of the price range of the people that really could benefit from them?
And is there any subsized programs to help in purchasing the panels other than the tax credits the government is giving?
2007-02-25 07:36:54 · 2 answers · asked by AlwaysLearning 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Other - Home & Garden
The price is not related to cost as closely as other semiconductors are. It is related to the price of energy and the premium people are willing to pay for green power.
There are subsidies in the US in many States if you live there.
2007-02-25 07:40:51 · answer #1 · answered by Ron H 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Making photovoltaic cells requires a lot of high tech precision machinery -- the process is inherently expensive. Expect a photovoltaic system to cost about $10 per watt; it will generate at most 2 kWh of electricity annually per watt, which is worth about 25 cents. So such a system makes sense only if you are far from commercial power, or can get a fat subsidy.
2007-02-25 07:41:44 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋