Crowd-funding for solar power

Article by: DAVID SHAFFER , Star Tribune
Updated: January 14, 2013 - 12:33 PM

The community-owned solar array planned by a power cooperative northwest of the Twin Cities has sold all of the ownership units and plans to begin construction soon.

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thankbhoJan. 12, 1310:20 AM

This would be an excellent investment opportunity if you enjoy losing money.

notaxmaxJan. 12, 13 3:25 PM

Solar doesn't work well in Minnesota because of the short days, low sun angle and cold weather. If it were viable the southern half of the US would be covered with them, if for no other reason then cheap land prices, low population numbers and better sun exposure. The article also failed to mention the recent renewal of the alternative energy act which subsidizes these operations by paying high rates for every KW loaded unto the grid. Looks more like a devious way to get the taxpayer to pay for someones energy use then anything that is benefical to the environment.

dealpenJan. 14, 13 1:20 PM

Crowdfunding is a powerful tool to obtain social proof.

esandeenJan. 15, 13 9:44 AM

notaxmax says "Solar doesn't work well in Minnesota because of the short days, low sun angle and cold weather." - If he knew something about PV panels, he'd know that PV efficiency *increases* as the temperature drops. They need sunlight, not heat. FWIW, the 11 panels on my roof produce 75% of the electrical energy my home uses annually. Lifetime output of 8.4 MWh and rising. We're not as optimal as sunny CA, but solar certainly does work in Minnesota.

esandeenJan. 15, 1310:11 AM

thankbho - you assert that it's a money-losing proposition. Can you share your careful analysis with us, or is this something you simply know in your heart must be true?