Earlier this evening, I was in the Best Buy store at MetroPointe in Costa Mesa, CA. I noticed in the Magnolia Home Theater section that they had solar panels, the wires and electric boxes, and a sign that mentions complete systems with installation available. I googled it when I got home, and I found this article - the image is very similar to what I saw in the Best Buy store in Costa Mesa, except the solar panel and electric box were prominently displayed. (I think the display had been relocated after this image was taken) Product News: Best Buy Showcases Solar in Magnolia Showroom, by Jason Knott - Electronic House
Perhaps they should put the PV panels required to run each piece of equipment, right next to it. Buy a new 100 watt stereo, pick up 100 watts of PV panels.... ... yes, I know...
I don't have much confidence in BB salespeople with even mundane electronics knowledge. Not sure how much training they'll receive for PV.
The problem with mainstreaming PV is that people are prone to buy what they don't understand, and the chance of disappointment, leading to concluding that PV is not viable is very real. While PV equations (harvest,not design) are simple, it is very easy to not understand them. For example, a 100 watt panel will not net/net yield 100 watts. Finally, contrary to Tom's assertion, it is not a simple as plug and play. There ar engineering and permiting rules for a reason. That doesn't mean it is daunting, but it is not something for your average weekend warrior to do. Icarus Ps I would buy from a installer with a long track record!
My assertion wasn't serious. I was suggesting that would be the depth of training for BB sales associates. You raise a very good point. When a lay person decides to buy something like PV panels, they generally lack the technical knowledge to make an informed decision. Lacking that, they are likely to buy the one with the best price, prettiest box, or most outrageous claims. Naturally this will lead to disappointment and general disillusionment with PV. It's unfortunate, and also why something of this nature should be purchased from an experienced dealer. Tom
Does Costco sell solar panels. That would probably a more appropriate place, in one of their informational kiosks.
we have a company recently advertising here called solarcity. they are pushing a turnkey long term lease with a lower than your current bill starting monthly cost and an elevation clause. of course, they have to do a site evaluation before commiting to anything. they claim to have done more installations than anyone else.
I have neighbors that did the solar city thing. they have an excellent yard for it. Did a ground mount system (3.5 kW IIRC).
