At
www.ases.org there is a report "Tackling Climate Change" by Chuck Kutchner of NREL. There are many maps showing the potential for wind and solar in the United States. It shows where renewables are most effective. Free to download and available in hardcopy from the American Solar Energy Society. ASES also has k-12curriculum as do so many others like NEED, and SECO in Austin.
There has been misinformation distributed to elected officials in New York such as, "There isn't enough sun". Energy Illiteracy.
Certain entities feel threatened by change. Stockholders are an important factor in the economic transition to clean energy. The elderly do not want to invest in new technology for several reasons: paybacks are long, resistant to new technology, lack of certainty. Many people rent and landlords simply raise the rent to cover utility cost increases.
People are afraid of vandalism, new exorbitant fees for using renewable energy, "the look" of solar panels and damage to roofs, roof replacement, or outdated technology. Everyone is sure if they just wait the price will come down.
One of the three major reasons for Germany's success was the media campaign. (Billboards.) Also,a free 800 number for more information. (Watch out for depending on websites.) Lastly, the educational curriculum in the schools. Unlike Germany 10 years ago, the US does not have a large group of renewable energy companies banning together to fund the media campaign, the 800 number and the k-12 curriculum.
When I hear the negative remarks about the look of wind turbines I like to remind folks we have mercury in our acidic lakes and no fish. People who live in the Adirondacks know this.
I have learned from people who live in the country would like to have back up power mainly to run the (soft start) well pump. They mainly want to wash up the dishes.
You can explain "tons of carbon" by asking how much a gallon of gas weighs and where it goes when it is poured into a car.
Infrared pictures of a house on a cold night can speak reams about weatherization.
There may be deeper energy lessons to go with these facts and I am looking for them and hope to hear some good examples from all of you.
